Discover Indonesia’s Hidden Gem: The Ultimate Peak Visited by Only 1%

Yogyakarta is truly a hidden gem in Indonesia, often overshadowed by popular destinations like Bali and Surabaya. Yet, this city is brimming with unique attractions that are just waiting to be discovered!

① Upon landing at Yogyakarta airport, make sure you have your e-visa ready, as the entry process typically takes around 30 minutes. Before collecting your luggage, don’t forget to scan the QR code to fill out the necessary entry information. A convenient direct train from the airport to the city center can be booked a few days in advance on the Traveloka platform.

Alternatively, you can opt for a taxi, which will cost approximately 100 yuan. At the exit, you’ll find helpful Grab staff who can assist you in calling a car. By using their promo code “Grabairport,” you can enjoy a 30% discount. However, be prepared for potential traffic; what should be a 20-minute ride can easily stretch to an hour and a half.

② Once you arrive in Malioboro, Yogyakarta, take a leisurely stroll to soak in the local atmosphere. We stayed at EL Hotel, conveniently located just a 2-minute walk from Malioboro. In the evening, we hopped on a horse-drawn carriage, which cost 150,000 rupiah and was well worth every penny. Departing at 5:45 PM, the ride offered a perfect view of the sunset.

For dinner, we headed to the renowned The House of Raminten. It’s highly recommended to make a reservation on Google Maps beforehand, as the place can get quite busy. The food is incredibly affordable, and you can enjoy a satisfying meal for around 100 yuan.

③ The next morning, our driver picked us up promptly at 7 AM. Our packed itinerary included climbing the majestic Borobudur, visiting the unique Bukit Rhema Gereja Ayam, and having lunch. We also took stunning photos at the Air Terjun Kedung Kayang waterfall, watched the breathtaking sunset at Prambanan, and enjoyed a delightful dinner at Suwatu By Mil & Bay [make sure the driver makes a reservation in advance]!

Note that climbing Borobudur requires booking well in advance, so it’s best to have your driver handle this. Upon arrival, they will provide each person with a pair of slippers and water for the climb. The climbing time is fixed, and we scheduled it for 9:30 AM. You can also have the driver book Prambanan in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.

Don’t forget to keep some chocolate in your bag for a quick energy boost.