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Borobudur Travel Tips

Borobudur Travel Tips

Borobudur Central Java, Indonesia Travel Guide

Communication Essentials

Staying connected in Indonesia is straightforward.

Local SIM Cards & Wi-Fi

  • Telkomsel, XL Axiata, and Indosat Ooredoo are main providers. Telkomsel generally boasts the best coverage.
  • Purchase a SIM card upon arrival; passport registration is necessary. eSIM options are also available for compatible phones, for instance from Airalo.
  • Wi-Fi is widespread in hotels, cafes, and restaurants. Mobile data (4G/LTE) is reliable in populated areas. A portable Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi can also suit your needs.

Language & Postal Services

Navigating communication and mail during your visit.

Insights

  • The Official language of indonesia serves as the official national language. Javanese is widely spoken in Central Java.
  • English is spoken by many individuals as part of tourism. For language learning, explore platforms such as Rosetta Stone.
  • PT Pos Indonesia offers postal services, which you can find in major towns and cities.

Important Phrases

A few phrases for basic communication.

Learn & Practice

  • Hello/Hi: Halo (HAH-loh)
  • Thank you: Thank you (teh-REE-mah KAH-sih)
  • Please: Tolong (TOH-long) (for requesting aid) / Silakan (see-LAH-kahn) ("please do" or "go ahead")

More Phrases

Further phrases for your interactions.

Helpful for Travel

  • Yes: Ya (yah) / No: Tidak (TEE-dak)
  • How much?: Berapa harganya? (beh-RAH-pah har-GAH-nyah?)
  • Water: Air (EYE-eer) / Food: Makanan (mah-KAH-nan)

Business Hours & Schedules

Operating Hours

  • Shops: Generally 09:00/10:BETWEEN 12 and 21:00/22:00 in malls. Smaller shops and traditional markets may open earlier.
  • Restaurants: Varied hours. Some open early for breakfast, while others serve until late at night. Many street food stalls operate mainly in the evenings.
  • Attractions: Most cultural sites and museums operate from 08:00/09:00 to 17:00/18:00. Borobudur is typically open from 06:FROM 12 to 17:00, with special tickets for earlier sunrise access.
  • Banks: Typically open Monday-Friday, from 08:00/09:00 to 15:00/16:00. ATMs are widely available.

Holiday Considerations

  • Islamic holidays: Eid al-Fitr (Lebaran), Eid al-Adha, Prophet Muhammad's Birthday.
  • Christian holidays: Christmas, Good Friday, Ascension Day.
  • Buddhist holidays: Waisak (Buddha's Birthday, especially significant at Borobudur).
  • During major holidays like Eid al-Fitr, domestic travel surges significantly. This leads to crowded transport, higher prices. Tourist attractions generally remain open.

Seasonal Travel

Major tourist attractions rarely close entirely. Maintenance, special events, or severe wet seasconcerning weather conditions might temporarily change access. Check official sources or local news for any specific advisories before visiting.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Interacting respectfully with local culture enriches your travel journey.

Greeting Customs

A slight nod and a warm smile are common and always appreciated. Handshakes are common, usually gentle. When greeting a Muslim of the opposite gender, wait on their behalf to extend their hand first. If they do not, a slight bow or a hand-on-chest gesture suffices.

Appropriate Attire

Shoulders and knees must be covered for both men and women when visiting temples or mosques. Sarongs are often given or rented at sites like Borobudur and Prambanan. Modest dress is welcome, especially outside major tourist areas. Standard swimwear is fine at hotel pools or resorts.

Photography

Generally, taking photos of people is fine, but it is polite to ask permission, especially for close-up shots or if people are engaged in religious activities. A simple gesture with your camera and a smile often works. Some sacred areas within temples or museums may restrict photography. Always look for "no photography" signs. Drones may need special permits, specifically over historic places such as Borobudur.

Dining & Tipping

Practice local dining customs.

Reminders

  • Always use your right hand for eating, giving, and receiving items, as the left hand is considered unclean.
  • Tipping is not customary but is appreciated for good service.
  • A service charge may be included in higher-end establishments.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Mind cultural awareness for a harmonious trip.

What to Avoid

  • Do not touch people's heads, as the head is considered the most sacred part of the body.
  • Do not point with your feet. Avoid showing the soles of your feet to others.
  • Public displays of anger or frustration are generally not welcome. Maintain a calm demeanor.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Notes

Gender Considerations

  • Indonesian society is generally conservative. Public displays of affection are rare.
  • Women traveling alone find general safety but being aware of their surroundings, especially at night, is wise.
  • Public displays of affection should be minimal; overt embraces are not common.

LGBTQ+ Information

  • LGBTQ+ individuals face societal discrimination and a lack of legal protection.
  • Public displays of affection among same-sex couples are not advised.
  • Discretion is recommended for LGBTQ+ travelers.

Airport Services

For comfortable airport waits, Priority Pass access to independent airport lounges is available globally. If your flight is delayed, canceled, or boarding is denied, Compensair offers assistance with compensation claims.

Accessibility Information

Travelers with mobility considerations may find navigating Indonesia, including Borobudur, has challenges due to infrastructure limitations.

Infrastructure Overview

Accessibility not much infrastructure beyond major international hotels and more up-to-date shopping malls in Yogyakarta.

Mobility Notes

  • Borobudur Temple has a considerable challenge, with many steep steps and bumpy surfaces.
  • Some lower parts of the complex are accessible, but reaching the upper levels and stupas calls for climbing. Full access to the top is not possible.
  • Public transport generally does not accommodate wheelchairs.

Accessible Options

Certain options can adapt to specific needs.

Transport & Sites

  • Private car hire with a driver offers the most flexible and potentially accessible transportation option.
  • Some ground-level areas of parks and museums might be accessible, but verify beforehand.
  • You can communicate your specific needs to the driver or tour operator.

Sensory Impairment Support

Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited.

Suggestions

  • Consider hiring a private guide who can assist with navigation and communication.
  • Bringing relevant assistive devices is beneficial.
  • Having information translated can also be useful.

External Resources

Information beyond this guide is available.

Where to Find More Info

  • Consult specialized accessible travel blogs.
  • Seek out organizations focused on accessible travel.
  • These sources present up-to-date information and practical tips for traveling in Indonesia with specific mobility needs.

Important Note on Access

Borobudur Temple Specifics

  • Borobudur Temple's upper sections have restricted access for preservation.
  • Currently, people cannot ascend to the very top stupas.
  • Special footwear for walking on the temple structure is often mandatory and provided on site.

General Mobility Challenges

  • Footpaths and sidewalks can be uneven or non-existent in numerous places.
  • Many older buildings and guesthouses lack lifts or ramps.
  • Available toilets are rare outside international regular facilities.

Health & Safety Reminders

Staying Hydrated

  • Drink plenty of bottled water to stay hydrated.
  • Don't drink tap water unless purified.
  • Be mindful of ice in drinks.

Sun Protection

  • Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
  • Seek shade during peak sun hours.
  • Early morning temple visits are cooler.

Health Advice

Consult a doctor about necessary vaccinations. Carry a basic first-aid kit. Consider travel insurance for medical emergencies. Be aware of common traveler's illnesses and take precautions.