What to do in Kalasan

Visit the innumerable shops, markets, cafés and restaurants of Malioboro Street (Jalan Malioboro), an enthralling and entertaining district. Malioboro Street dissects the heart of Yogyakarta’s city center while its adjoining side streets offer further retail and dining options. During the colonial years, the street was the center for the Dutch government. It was later used as a ceremonial boulevard for the Yogyakarta Sultanate. The name is said to come from the Duke of Marlborough, a prominent figure during the British rule of Indonesia.

With its otherworldly appearance and elaborate décor, the Prambanan Temple is considered a masterpiece of Hindu architecture. The 8th-century spiritual compound consists of many temple buildings that seem to rise from the ground with jagged gray spikes. Admire the spectacular architecture and profound meaning of this exceptional UNESCO heritage site.

The Gembira Loka Zoo is a vast complex containing many animal enclosures, a botanical garden and scenic grounds. Spread out across a picturesque region of 54 acres (22 hectares), the zoo contains around 470 animals. Bring the kids to the children’s park for a fun day out with the family.

The Tugu Monument is an elaborate obelisk in the heart of the city that has special meaning for the people of Yogyakarta. The 18th-century structure was built by the first sultan of the city in a symbolic location between the Indian Ocean, Mount Merapi and the Kraton Complex. Use the monument as a practical gathering point to meet friends and family during your vacation here.

Dating back to the 8th century, the Kalasan Temple is an extraordinary Buddhist structure that still stands today. The polygonal structure is built on a rectangular base and contains many rooms featuring ecclesiastical statues and images. Wander through the chambers of this significant temple and imagine events here more than 1,000 years ago.

The Sambisari Temple is a fascinating set of Hindu ruins dating back to the 9th century. It was excavated in the mid 20th century, after being buried 16 feet (5 meters) underground. Learn about Hindu practices from more than 1,000 years ago with a visit to this sacred structure.