Traveling from Yogyakarta to Borobudur By Bus – Complete Travel Guide
If you are enchanted by the allure of ancient temples and Javanese culture, a trip to Borobudur from Yogyakarta is a journey through the heart of Indonesia’s historical splendor.
This guide will simplify your bus travel from Yogyakarta to the awe-inspiring Borobudur Temple, providing a smooth and culturally rich travel experience.
If you are not already in Yogyakarta, you should know that you could also stay in some hotels near Borobudur. The prices are a bit higher, and the options are also fewer. Another option is to stay in Magelang. However, the Special Region of Yogyakarta is a great place to stay and go for a day trip to Borobodur. Staying in Borobodur makes it easy to see the sunrise and sunrise at the temple.
Why Choose Bus Travel to Borobudur?
Traveling by bus from Yogyakarta to Borobudur is not only an affordable option, but it also provides you with a chance to experience the picturesque beauty and local way of life in Java. The journey allows you to witness the rural landscapes and daily activities of Indonesian villages, making the trip to Borobudur more than just a destination; it becomes a memorable journey.
The Best Bus Option: Damri Bus Service
Why Damri is the Preferred Choice
The Damri bus service is known for its reliability and comfort, offering direct travel to Borobudur without requiring transfers. With well-maintained buses and convenient schedules, Damri is the perfect choice for both tourists and locals.
We will explain other options later, but if you want the smoothest and cheapest journey, Damri Bus Service is the absolute best option!!
Schedules and Ticketing Information
The Damri buses to Borobudur are available all day with different departure times. You can buy the tickets at the bus station. The journey usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, and the tickets are reasonably priced at 20,000 RP.
Step-by-Step Guide: Reaching Borobudur Temple from Yogyakarta With Damri
The Damri bus station in Yogyakarta is easily accessible by taxi, local bus, or Grab/Gojek. Once you arrive at the station, you can easily find the bus that goes to Borobudur. The journey is comfortable and offers scenic views.
The Damri bus leaves from Maliobor Terminal in Yogyakarta (in front of Bank Of Indonesia). Departure time is: 04.30 AM, 06.30 AM, 10.00 AM, 12.00 PM.
The bus will drop you off close to the temple complex, making it a convenient way to reach your destination. If your dropped of at the bus station its about a 15 minutes walk, but there are plenty of drivers there wanting to transport you also, for around 10,000.
Departure from Borobodur Terminal to Yogyakarta. 07.00 AM, 09.00 AM, 01.00 PM, 03.00 PM.
Both the times and price of 20,000 RP have been verified by DAMRI. However, the times will sometimes change. We always recommend you go there the day before, especially if you want to leave early in the morning. Then you will get the latest information and also know exactly where the buses leave from.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Local Bus Challenges
While local buses can be an alternative, they require transfers and may be challenging to navigate for non-Indonesian speakers. Travelers should be cautious of these routes as they will significantly extend travel time and complicate the journey. Its also more expensive.
The Other Option, Bus With Transfer
I highly recommend avoiding this option, but if the Damri Bus is full it’s an option. Many travelers choose this option because they don’t know about Damri, or can’t find the Damri bus. The only good thing with this option is that it’s more of an adventure! If you like to stay on buses for a long time, change buses, and pay more, choose this option!
You head to Jombor Bus Station north in Yogyakarta. There you will find the bus, its around 20,000 and heads to Blondo. But saying that you are going to Borobodur is enough for them to help you find the right bus.
After around 1 hour the bus will stop. Exit from the front of the bus, so they can point you in the right direction. You just follow the road for a few meters, then go to the left and wait for the small local buses! It was 15 minutes before one of them came, and it cost me 10,000. While waiting many tried to sell me a more expensive ride,
This is where the big bus will drof you off, walk around the corner and wait for the local minibuses.
The local bus stops at the Borobodur terminal. It’s good to make a quick stop there and ask when the last Damri bus will be going back. Or if you want to take the same bus back, then you will have to be standing along the road and wait for when it shows up!
Alternative Transport Options
Traveling by Grab or Gojek Car
For a more private journey, ride-hailing services like Grab and Gojek are available for car and scooter rides to Borobudur. This option is perfect for those who want to take a direct route to the temple without any stopovers. The app-based booking system offers convenience, and although prices are competitive, it is still considerably higher than the cost of taking a bus.
Rent a Scooter or Car
If you don’t want to drive yourself, its best to use services like Grab of Gojek. But renting a scooter is a very good way to get to Borobodur. It also makes it possible to see the sunrise at Borobodur for those staying in Yogyakarta.
Renting a scooter in Yogyakarta will cost you from around 100,000 per day, make sure to rent from a reputable shop.
Make Sure to Plan Your Trip For a Smooth Journey
When getting ready for the bus trip, bring water, snacks, and local currency for tickets and small purchases. Dress comfortably for the weather, and consider carrying a hat or umbrella for protection from the sun or rain when you arrive at Borobudur. Powerbank and a lndonesian sim card with mobile data are also very handy to have.
Embarking on a bus ride from Yogyakarta to Borobudur is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s an experience that showcases the picturesque beauty of Java’s countryside and the hospitality of its locals.
