Mendut Temple
A serene 9th-century Buddhist temple and adjacent monastery offering a peaceful retreat and public meditation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Mendut Temple
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 9th-century Buddhist temple and adjacent monastery offering a peaceful retreat and public meditation.
"A hidden gem offering a serene and calming atmosphere that feels like a peaceful retreat."
🧘 Join Evening Meditation
Public meditation sessions are often held 7-8 PM. Check locally for accuracy.
👗 Dress Modestly
Respect the monastery's spiritual nature by wearing respectful attire.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mendut Temple Architecture
Main Temple
Admire the intricate stone carvings of this 9th-century Buddhist temple, a historical gem near Borobudur.
Serene Monastery Grounds
Mendut Buddhist Monastery
Experience tranquility amidst lush greenery, Buddha statues, and a peaceful ambiance.
Ancient Bodhi Tree
Vihara Mendut (next to temple)
Stand beneath a significant Bodhi tree, a descendant of the one under which Buddha attained enlightenment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visits
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧘 Join Evening Meditation
Public meditation sessions are often held 7-8 PM. Check locally for accuracy.
👗 Dress Modestly
Respect the monastery's spiritual nature by wearing respectful attire.
💰 Free Entry, Donations Welcome
Entry is free, but donations help maintain the monastery.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Wander through the clean, well-maintained grounds with numerous statues.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧘 Join Evening Meditation
Public meditation sessions are often held 7-8 PM. Check locally for accuracy.
👗 Dress Modestly
Respect the monastery's spiritual nature by wearing respectful attire.
💰 Free Entry, Donations Welcome
Entry is free, but donations help maintain the monastery.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Wander through the clean, well-maintained grounds with numerous statues.
🌳 Admire the Bodhi Tree
See the impressive Bodhi tree, a significant spiritual symbol.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Mendut Monastery for its serene and spiritual atmosphere, highlighting the free entry and the opportunity to join evening meditation sessions. The well-maintained grounds and friendly monks contribute to a peaceful experience. Some note that the temple itself has an entrance fee, and dining options are limited on-site.
"It's a private Buddhist Monastery but open for public. The monastery is very serene and spiritual. When visit we should respect their rules and support their sustainability."
SIP Perdana
"We visited this Buddhist monastery which is located next to Mendut Temple. There is a mix of Buddhist architectural style here including from Thailand. The main shrine has a peaceful reclining Buddha and it was good to pray here. The grounds have several interesting structures and entrance is free of charge."
S L Chong
"Beautiful and quiet monastery. The abbot YM Bhante Pannavaro Mahathera is always very friendly, accomodating and helpful, appreciating his warm hospitality even invited us for lunch at the temple,"
brenda ie-mcrae
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mendut Temple is located about 3 kilometers east of Borobudur Temple. You can easily reach it by car, taxi, or local transport. Many visitors combine a visit to Mendut with Borobudur as they are on the same main road. 
Yes, Mendut Temple is situated on the main road between Borobudur and Yogyakarta, making it accessible by local buses or shared taxis.
Mendut Temple is located on the main road between Borobudur Temple and Yogyakarta, making it a convenient stop for travelers. The exact distance can vary depending on the route, but it's a common part of the journey.
Yes, there are typically parking facilities available for visitors arriving by car or motorbike.
While it's possible to walk, it's a distance of about 3 kilometers. Most visitors opt for a short taxi or motorbike ride for convenience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Mendut Temple itself usually requires a ticket, often bundled with Borobudur tickets. However, the adjacent Mendut Buddhist Monastery offers free entry.
Opening hours for Mendut Temple are generally from morning until late afternoon, typically around 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's advisable to check current hours before your visit.
No, the Mendut Buddhist Monastery has free entry, making it a peaceful and accessible retreat for visitors.
Absolutely! They are located right next to each other, making it easy to visit both in one go.
When visiting the monastery, it's important to dress respectfully and maintain a quiet demeanor to honor the spiritual environment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Mendut Temple is a beautiful 9th-century Buddhist temple known for its intricate stone carvings and a large, well-preserved statue of Buddha inside.
At the monastery, you can explore serene grounds, admire Buddha statues, and potentially join public meditation sessions in the evening. It's a great place for quiet reflection.
Yes, the monastery is known for its serene atmosphere and offers public meditation sessions, typically in the early evening.
The description mentions simple overnight stays are offered at the monastery, providing a unique spiritual experience.
The Vihara Mendut, adjacent to the temple, houses a Bodhi tree that is a descendant of the original tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might be some local vendors outside the temple complex, dedicated dining facilities are limited. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit.
Some reviews mention being invited for lunch by the abbot, suggesting that simple meals might be available or offered to guests, but it's not a standard dining service.
You'll find more dining options in the nearby towns of Borobudur or Muntilan, offering a range of local Indonesian cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the temple grounds and monastery, but always be mindful of any specific restrictions, especially inside meditation halls or during ceremonies.
The intricate carvings of the temple, the serene monastery grounds with Buddha statues, and the ancient Bodhi tree offer excellent photographic opportunities.
As with most historical and religious sites, drone usage is likely restricted or prohibited. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for capturing the beauty of the temple and monastery without harsh shadows.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day when children are more energetic. The free entry to the monastery is a bonus for budget-conscious families. Ensure children are reminded to be respectful of the quiet atmosphere, especially if any meditation sessions are ongoing.
🧘 Spiritual Seekers & Meditators
The serene environment, the presence of monks, and the historical Buddhist significance of the site create a deeply conducive atmosphere for meditation and reflection. The option for simple overnight stays can further enhance this immersive experience for dedicated practitioners.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While Mendut Temple may have a separate entrance fee, it's often a small cost compared to larger attractions. Combining a visit to Mendut with Borobudur can be done efficiently using local transport, keeping travel expenses low.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Mendut Temple
Unlike the grand scale of Borobudur, Mendut is a smaller, more intimate structure, yet equally significant. Its location on the main road between Borobudur and Yogyakarta makes it a crucial stop for understanding the Buddhist pilgrimage routes of the era. The temple's intricate stone carvings depict various Buddhist deities and scenes, offering insights into the religious and artistic practices of the time.
Adjacent to the temple is the Mendut Buddhist Monastery (Vihara Mendut), which adds another layer to the site's spiritual importance. This monastery is not only a place of worship and learning for monks but also a sanctuary open to visitors seeking peace and reflection. It houses a significant Bodhi tree, believed to be a descendant of the original tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment, further enhancing the site's sacred aura.
Experiencing the Mendut Buddhist Monastery
A highlight for many is the opportunity to participate in public meditation sessions, typically held in the early evening. These sessions offer a chance to meditate in silence alongside monks, fostering a deep sense of calm and mindfulness. While the exact timing can vary, arriving around 6:30 PM or 7:00 PM is often recommended.
The monastery also provides simple overnight stays, allowing visitors to immerse themselves more fully in the monastic life. The abbot and monks are often noted for their friendliness and hospitality, sometimes even inviting guests for meals. This makes Mendut Monastery a truly special place for spiritual seekers and those looking for a quiet retreat.
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