About Prambanan
Prambanan, known locally as Rara Jonggrang, is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia. Built around 850 CE, probably under King Rakai Pikatan of the Mataram kingdom, it honors the Trimurti of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The central Shiva temple soars about 47 meters, flanked by shrines for Brahma and Vishnu and smaller temples for their animal vehicles.
Reliefs on the balustrades tell the Ramayana story in a continuous sequence that pilgrims read as they circle clockwise. Earthquakes toppled many structures over the centuries, and reconstruction continues. Today Balinese and Javanese Hindus hold ceremonies here, and on moonlit nights the open-air stage nearby presents the Ramayana Ballet with the illuminated towers as a backdrop.
What to see
- Shiva temple and its four inner chambers
- Ramayana reliefs on the galleries
- Statue of Durga, linked to the Rara Jonggrang legend
- Sewu Buddhist temple in the same park
- Ramayana Ballet open-air performance
Visiting Prambanan: practical guide
- Best time
- May to September
- Hours
- Daily, about 6:30 to 17:00
- Entry
- About 25 USD for foreign adults; combined tickets with Borobudur
- Dress code
- Modest clothing; sarong may be provided
- Nearest airport
- Adisutjipto Airport (JOG), 5 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Visit late afternoon for warm light on the towers
- Rent a bicycle to reach Sewu and the outer temples
- Book the ballet for a full moon evening
Festivals and special days
- Tawur Agung Kesanga before Nyepi
- Ramayana Ballet season
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Hinduism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Remove shoes before entering temples and some homes.
- Dress modestly with shoulders and legs covered.
- Some temples, such as Puri Jagannath, admit only Hindus; respect posted signs.
- Ask before photographing shrines, rituals or cremation grounds.
- Use your right hand to accept prasad, the blessed food offering.
- Avoid bringing leather items or meat into temple grounds.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Prambanan?
Prambanan is in Sleman, Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia, Asia. GPS coordinates: -7.7520, 110.4915. The nearest airport is Adisutjipto Airport (JOG), 5 km.
What is the best time to visit Prambanan?
May to September
Is there an entry fee for Prambanan?
About 25 USD for foreign adults; combined tickets with Borobudur Opening hours: Daily, about 6:30 to 17:00
What should I wear when visiting Prambanan?
Modest clothing; sarong may be provided
Which religion is Prambanan sacred to?
Prambanan is sacred to Hinduism. Active place of worship. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
