Bukit Rhema (Chicken Church)
A unique dove-shaped prayer house symbolizing unity, offering stunning views and a peaceful spiritual experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Bukit Rhema (Chicken Church)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique dove-shaped prayer house symbolizing unity, offering stunning views and a peaceful spiritual experience.
"The architecture and design of the place was mesmerizing, especially on the interior."
🎯 Embrace the Dove's Story
It's a prayer house for all, not a chicken church! Learn its history for a richer visit. :pray:
👟 Be Prepared for Stairs
The climb to the top offers amazing views but involves steep stairs. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Dove-Shaped Prayer House
Main Building
Explore the unique 7-story architecture, a symbol of unity for all religions. Its interior is as mesmerizing as its exterior.
Panoramic Mountain Views
Top of the building
Ascend to the highest point for breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. A truly unforgettable sight.
Meaningful Guided Tours
Throughout the building
Learn the fascinating history and purpose of Bukit Rhema from friendly guides who debunk myths and share its message of harmony.
Affordable Cafe with a View
Adjacent Cafe
Enjoy delicious local snacks and meals with a stunning backdrop. The fried cassava is a popular freebie with admission.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Dove, Not the Chicken
+1Timing is Key for Views & Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Embrace the Dove's Story
It's a prayer house for all, not a chicken church! Learn its history for a richer visit. :pray:
👟 Be Prepared for Stairs
The climb to the top offers amazing views but involves steep stairs. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Drone Restrictions
Drones are not allowed in the crown area, so plan your aerial shots accordingly.
☕️ Cafe Delights
Don't miss the affordable cafe with great views and free fried cassava with your ticket! :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Embrace the Dove's Story
It's a prayer house for all, not a chicken church! Learn its history for a richer visit. :pray:
👟 Be Prepared for Stairs
The climb to the top offers amazing views but involves steep stairs. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Drone Restrictions
Drones are not allowed in the crown area, so plan your aerial shots accordingly.
☕️ Cafe Delights
Don't miss the affordable cafe with great views and free fried cassava with your ticket! :coffee:
⏳ Allow Extra Time
You might stay longer than planned due to the serene vibes and exploration opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by Bukit Rhema's unique dove-shaped architecture and its powerful message of interfaith unity. The serene atmosphere, friendly staff, and breathtaking views from the top are consistently praised. While the climb can be steep, the affordable entry fee, included snack, and insightful guided tours make it a highly recommended and enriching experience, often enjoyed more than nearby major temples.
"A beautiful view from the top and of course interesting architecture. The cafe in the back is very affordable with a great view too. We came after Borodur in the morning and enjoyed an hour or so here to see the church, rest, and enjoy lunch."
Cameron Cayer
"A very beautiful place with a meaningful message - that people of different faiths can all come together harmoniously and share a place of worship.
We ended up staying much longer than expected. The architecture and design of the place was mesmerising - especially on the interior. There was so much to see and explore, and so many beautiful and meaningful messages to absorb.
I do not consider myself a religious person, but when I was in the building, the vibes felt very serene, peaceful, and spiritual. The people working there, including the people at the cafe (something else I did not expect and wish I had included in my plans - a meal there) were all very friendly and contributed towards the positive energy felt all around.
As a bonus, views from the top were breathtaking!
I wish we were able to spend at least another couple of hours there, and included a meal there as part of the itinerary for the day."
Melvin Lin
"Probably enjoyed it more than the main temple 5 minutes away!
Much cheaper to get in. Had my own personal guide to show me around the building!
It's a very interesting story and it's lucky that the chicken temple ever existed at all....
You get a free snack. The restaurant sells everything with chicken, and some veggie options. The views are across the mountains and valley below.
A steep climb up."
Michael Tyler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bukit Rhema (Gereja Ayam) is located in Magelang, a manageable distance from Yogyakarta. Many visitors combine a trip here with Borobudur. You can hire a private car or motorbike for a day trip, which is a popular option for exploring multiple sites. Public transport is also available, but may take longer.
Yes, Bukit Rhema is a well-known landmark and is generally easy to find, especially if you're coming from Borobudur. Following GPS or asking locals for directions to 'Gereja Ayam' or 'Bukit Rhema' will guide you there.
For flexibility and convenience, hiring a private car or motorbike is recommended for exploring Magelang and its attractions like Bukit Rhema. This allows you to easily hop between sites.
Absolutely! Bukit Rhema is a perfect addition to a day trip from Yogyakarta, often combined with visits to Borobudur Temple. Plan your transport in advance for a smooth experience.
Travel time from Yogyakarta to Bukit Rhema can vary, but typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by car, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee for Bukit Rhema is very affordable, often around 25,000 IDR per person. This usually includes a free snack, like fried cassava, which can be redeemed at the cafe.
Your ticket typically includes entry to the unique prayer house, a complimentary snack (often fried cassava), and a guided tour that explains the history and purpose of the building.
Information on specific discounts for children or groups is not widely publicized, but the general admission price is very reasonable, making it accessible for most visitors.
Bukit Rhema is generally open from early morning until late afternoon. Visiting in the morning is recommended for the best light and fewer crowds.
No, advance booking is typically not required for Bukit Rhema. Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance upon arrival.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Despite its popular nickname, Bukit Rhema is actually shaped like a dove, symbolizing peace and unity. It's a house of prayer for all nations, not a traditional church.
Yes, photography is allowed inside and outside Bukit Rhema. However, drone photography is restricted in the crown area.
Yes, a free guided tour is usually included with your admission. The guides are friendly and share the fascinating history and meaningful purpose of the building.
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as serene, peaceful, and spiritual, even if they are not religious. The friendly staff contribute to the positive energy.
Bukit Rhema is a house of prayer for all religions, so it is designed to be a welcoming space for people of diverse faiths to gather and pray.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is an affordable cafe located at Bukit Rhema that offers a great view. It's a perfect spot to relax after exploring the prayer house.
The cafe offers a variety of dishes, with many chicken-themed options, as well as some vegetarian choices. It's a good place to enjoy local cuisine.
Your admission ticket often includes a free snack, typically fried cassava, which you can redeem at the cafe.
No, the cafe is noted for being very affordable, offering good value for money, especially considering the beautiful views it provides.
While the onsite cafe is convenient and offers great views, there are also local eateries in the surrounding Magelang area if you wish to explore further.
📸 📸 Photography
Every angle of the unique dove-shaped building is photogenic! The interior, exterior, and the panoramic views from the top offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Drone usage is restricted, particularly in the crown area of the building. It's best to check for any updated regulations upon arrival.
Yes, early mornings offer softer light and fewer people, making it ideal for capturing stunning photographs of Bukit Rhema and its surroundings.
The 'crown' of the dove offers a unique perspective, and the various levels of the building provide different vantage points. The surrounding landscape also makes for beautiful backdrops.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full structure, while a telephoto lens can be useful for landscape shots from the top. However, any camera or smartphone will capture its unique charm.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids will likely enjoy the free fried cassava offered with admission and the chance to explore the different levels of the structure. The cafe with a view provides a relaxed spot for a family meal. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as there are stairs to climb, but the overall experience is manageable and memorable for all ages.
💰 Budget Travelers
The onsite cafe is also noted for its reasonable prices, allowing you to enjoy a meal with a view without breaking the bank. Combining a visit to Bukit Rhema with other nearby attractions like Borobudur can be done efficiently with pre-planned transport, making it a cost-effective addition to your itinerary.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
While drone photography is restricted in certain areas, the panoramic views from the top provide stunning backdrops for landscape shots. The intricate details within the prayer house also offer opportunities for compelling interior photography. Don't forget to capture the vibrant atmosphere of the cafe with its scenic outlook.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story Behind the Dove
+1Visitors are often struck by the building's intricate interior, which features numerous messages and artwork promoting interfaith harmony. The guided tours, usually included with admission, are highly recommended for understanding the profound meaning behind the architecture. This narrative adds a layer of depth to the visual experience, transforming a visit into an educational and spiritual journey.
The location itself, perched on a hill, offers not only a unique structure but also stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This combination of meaningful design, spiritual ambiance, and natural beauty makes Bukit Rhema a truly special destination.
Experiencing Bukit Rhema: Tips from Visitors
The guided tours are a highlight, offering fascinating insights into the building's history and its message of interfaith unity. Visitors often find themselves staying longer than anticipated, captivated by the details and the tranquil environment. The cafe is also a popular spot, not only for its affordable prices and tasty food (especially the chicken dishes and fried cassava) but also for its spectacular views.
Be prepared for a steep climb to the top of the dove structure, so comfortable footwear is a must. While the building is nicknamed the 'Chicken Church,' understanding its true identity as a dove-shaped prayer house enhances the appreciation of its design and purpose.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit