TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesia's landmark site, Borobudur Temple in Magelang, Central Java, has become one of the most visited tourist destinations in the country. Borobudur management reported that in 2024, the temple was visited by 1.3 million tourists. As for 2025, Borobudur Temple, designated as one of the five super-priority tourist destinations in Indonesia, is targeted to receive 1.7 million visitors.
The temple, built in the 8th century AD during the Syailendra Dynasty of the Ancient Mataram Kingdom, is the largest Buddhist monument in the world. Aside from its majestic architecture, the temple holds many stories and historical policies woven within its reliefs. In 1991, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Due to its status as a cultural heritage site and a place of worship for Buddhists, visitors to Borobudur Temple must adhere to the established rules. Below are some etiquettes for visitors climbing the structure of Borobudur Temple.
1. No touching of the reliefs or statues
According to the Ministry of Culture website, Borobudur Temple has 1,460 panels of story reliefs arranged in 11 rows around the temple buildings and 1,212 decorative relief panels. This makes a total of 2,672 relief panels in the temple complex. Continuous touching of these reliefs poses a risk of damage.
The temple also houses 504 statues, including Buddha statues and lions, located in chambers inside stupas. This means visitors are prohibited from performing Kunto Bimo, a myth that touching a specific part of the Buddha statue inside a stupa will make their wish come true.
2. No selfie sticks
Visitors are also prohibited from taking selfies or group selfies using a selfie stick or tripod inside the temple buildings.
3. Wear upanat sandals
Visitors climbing the temple structure must wear special sandals called upanat. The upanat sandal is made from woven pandan leaves with an eva sponge sole. Inspired by the Karmawibhangga relief in the temple, these sandals are designed to minimize wear and tear on the temple's stone stairs.
4. Tour guides required
Visitors wishing to climb the temple structureture are required to be accompanied by a provided tour guide. This rule aims to enhance visitors' knowledge about Borobudur and preserve its heritage. The guide will lead tourists through the designated paths.
5. Other rules
- No backpacks or bags larger than 3 liters
- No eating and drinking
- No pets allowed
- No smoking
- No littering
- No drone flying
- No climbing
These rules apply not only when climbing Borobudur Temple, but also at Mendut Temple and Pawon Temple.
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