On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that he, together with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, would launch a conservation project for the 1,000-year-old Prambanan Temple in Yogyakarta. Not only this, but he also inaugurated the restoration project while visiting the prominent temple. He further described the monument as “another remarkable testament” to enduring cultural and civilisational ties that have connected India and Indonesia for over a thousand years. If you’re planning a trip to Indonesia, here are five reasons why this historic site deserves a place on your itinerary.
5 Reasons Why Prambanan Temple In Indonesia Is A Must-Visit
1. It’s Indonesia’s Largest Hindu Temple Complex
Built around 850 CE under the Mataram Kingdom, Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple building in Indonesia. The site originally featured about 240 temples, with the tall central shrines dedicated to the Hindu trinity, like Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma. The tallest temple, dedicated to Shiva, rises almost 47 metres, making it one of the most prominent sites in Southeast Asia.
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2. The Temple Brings The Ramayana To Life
One of Prambanan’s biggest highlights is its intricate stone reliefs depicting scenes from the ancient Hindu epic, the Ramayana. Visitors can walk around the temple walls and follow the story carved into the stone. During certain months, the famous Ramayana Ballet is also performed against the illuminated temple backdrop, creating a memorable cultural experience.
3. It’s A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Prambanan was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991 for its exceptional cultural and architectural importance. Despite enduring earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and centuries of neglect, the temple continues to stand as one of the finest examples of Hindu architecture in Asia.
4. An Ideal Blend Of History, Art & Engineering
Beyond its religious value, Prambanan is popular for its detailed carvings, towering spires and advanced stone construction techniques. Every section of the complex reflects the artistic excellence and engineering skills of the 9th-century Javanese civilisation.
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5. India Will Help Restore This Historic Landmark
Prambanan is once again in the limelight after India stated its support for the temple’s conservation during PM Narendra Modi’s visit to Indonesia. The restoration project highlights the centuries-old civilisational links between India and Indonesia, where Hindu tradition has continued to remain an important part of the country’s heritage.
Would you like to visit this temple on your next trip to Indonesia?
Cover Image Courtesy: Instagram/narendramodi
FAQs
What is special about Prambanan Temple?
Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple site in Indonesia and the second-largest in Southeast Asia. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is celebrated for its towering, peak-pointed spires, detailed stone carvings, and for symbolizing centuries of peaceful religious harmony alongside nearby Buddhist monuments.
Who built the Prambanan Temple in Indonesia?
The Prambanan Temple was built in the 9th century (around 850 CE) by King Rakai Pikatan of the Hindu Sanjaya Dynasty of the ancient Mataram Kingdom.
Why was Prambanan abandoned?
The devastating 1006 eruption of Mount Merapi volcano located around 25 kilometres north of Prambanan in Central Java, or a power struggle may have caused the shift.