Explore various historic temples in Magelang that hold stories of the past and offer stunning natural beauty, perfect for history and culture lovers.

Magelang, located in the center of Java Island, is known as a place rich in history and culture, especially with the presence of various historical temples scattered throughout the area.

These temples are not only silent witnesses to the glory of the kingdom that once ruled, but also offer stunning natural scenery, making it an attractive tourist spot for visitors who want to combine historical adventure and natural beauty. Here are 10 historic temples in Magelang that are a must-visit.

1. Mendut Temple

Mendut Temple is located about 3 km from Borobudur Temple, on Jalan Mayor Kusen, Magelang. Based on the Karangtengah inscription from the reign of King Indra of the Syailendra Dynasty, Mendut Temple was built in the 8th century.

This temple is rectangular in shape with dimensions of 10 x 10 meters and a height of 13.3 meters. Mendut Temple is famous for its reliefs depicting the teachings of Buddha, as well as a large stupa at its peak.

This Magelang Temple also functions as a place of worship and is one of the important tourist destinations in the Borobudur area.

2. Pawon Temple

Located about 1.75 km from Borobudur Temple, Pawon Temple is a temple estimated to have been built in the 8th to 9th century AD. This temple is believed to be the place where the ashes of King Indra are kept.

In addition, Pawon Temple functions as a gateway to Borobudur Temple and has deep spiritual value. With its simple yet charming structure, Pawon Temple is one of the important sites in the Borobudur area, connecting the physical and spiritual worlds.

3. Umbul Temple

Umbul Temple is located in Grabag District, about 9.6 km from Borobudur Temple. Unlike other temples, Umbul Temple is known for its hot springs which are the main attraction for tourists.

There are two rectangular pools of different sizes, and the hot water that comes out from the bottom of the pool provides a refreshing, relaxing sensation.

The name “Umbul” itself comes from the word “mumbul,” which means hot water that rises to the surface, creating a peaceful and calming atmosphere for visitors.

4. Selogriyo Temple

Selogriyo Temple is located on the hillside of Candisari Village, Windusari District. This temple is estimated to have been built in the 8th century by the Sanjaya Dynasty. The road to this temple is quite narrow and rocky, which makes the journey to the temple an adventure in itself.

Most of the path is still a footpath that crosses the rice field area, thus providing a pleasant light trekking experience.

In 1998, Selogriyo Temple was damaged by a landslide, but was reconstructed and completed in 2005. This temple now offers stunning natural views and a strong spiritual atmosphere.

5. Gunung Sari Temple

Gunung Sari Temple is located on the slopes of Mount Sumbing, about 35 km from Magelang City. This Hindu temple was built in the 9th century and is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva.

The temple’s location at a high altitude provides extraordinary natural scenery, with fresh air and calming greenery.

Gunung Sari Temple is an ideal place for visitors who want to enjoy the beauty of nature while exploring historical sites. There is no entrance fee to visit this temple, making it a very affordable destination.

6. Borobudur Temple

Borobudur Temple is the largest Buddhist temple in the world, located about 15 km from the center of Magelang City. Built in the 8th to 9th centuries by King Samaratungga from the Syailendra Dynasty, Borobudur Temple is famous for its towering layered stupa structure.

The reliefs in this temple depict Buddhist teachings and life at that time. This temple is also a place of worship for Buddhists and has been recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Borobudur Temple offers stunning sunrise views and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia. The entrance ticket for domestic tourists is IDR 50,000, while foreign tourists are charged IDR 375,000.

7. Ngawen Temple

Ngawen Temple is located about 16 km from Magelang City, in Ngawen Hamlet, Ngawen Village, Muntilan District. This temple is a Buddhist temple complex consisting of five small temples located on a terraced punden.

Ngawen Temple has its own uniqueness, especially in the lion statues found in the four corners of the temple. This lion statue gives a different feel compared to other temples in Magelang.

The reliefs on this temple also reflect the lives of the people during the Syailendra Dynasty. Ngawen Temple does not charge an entrance fee, making it a very affordable destination for tourists.

8. Lumbung Temple

Lumbung Temple is located in Tlatar Hamlet, Krogowanan Village, Sawangan District, approximately 25 km from Magelang City. This temple is part of a larger temple complex, together with Asu Temple and Pendem Temple.

Despite its smaller size, Lumbung Temple remains stunning with its beautiful reliefs and charming architecture. This temple was built during the Syailendra Dynasty and functions as a place of Buddhist worship.

The beauty and tranquility of the surrounding environment make Lumbung Temple the perfect place for solitude and reflection.

9. Asu Sengi Temple

Asu Sengi Temple is located in Candi Pos Hamlet, Sengi Village, Dukun District, approximately 24 km from Magelang City. This Hindu temple was discovered after being buried by lava from Mount Merapi.

The name “Asu” comes from the Javanese word for “dog”, because there is a statue resembling a dog near this temple. This temple is quite large in size and stands firmly even though it has long been buried by lava.

The atmosphere around the temple is very cool and beautiful, and offers a view of the majestic Mount Merapi in the distance. Asu Sengi Temple does not charge an entrance fee.

10. Pendem Temple

Pendem Temple is located in Tlatar Hamlet, Krogowanan Village, Sawangan District, approximately 27 km from Magelang City. This Hindu temple is mostly still buried underground, giving a mysterious impression to anyone who visits it.

With a smaller form, Pendem Temple has beautiful carvings even though most of them are buried. This temple is believed to be a place of worship for Hindus in ancient times.

Because it is located near Lumbung Temple and Asu Temple, Pendem Temple is part of a temple complex that is interesting to visit. If you’re exploring the area, don’t forget to check out Things to do Magelang for more exciting destinations to visit!

Magelang is a city rich in history and culture, and the historic temples scattered throughout the area provide an opportunity to delve into its fascinating past. From the majestic Borobudur Temple to the meaningful Mendut Temple, each site offers stunning beauty and a deep story.

So, if you want to enjoy the beauty of nature while immersing yourself in Indonesia’s cultural heritage, don’t miss the opportunity to visit these 10 historic temples in Magelang.