Candi Sewu ini berlokasi hanya sekitar 800 meter dari candi Prambanan, juga disebut Candi Manjushri  Grha yang bermakna kuil atau rumah manjushri
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Sewu Temple Prambanan

4.7
·4k reviews·, Indonesia

Discover Candi Sewu, Indonesia's second-largest Buddhist temple complex, a sprawling 8th-century marvel near Prambanan.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Candi Sewu ini berlokasi hanya sekitar 800 meter dari candi Prambanan, juga disebut Candi Manjushri  Grha yang bermakna kuil atau rumah manjushri

Sewu Temple Prambanan

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Candi Sewu, Indonesia's second-largest Buddhist temple complex, a sprawling 8th-century marvel near Prambanan.

4.7
(4k reviews)

"It's included in your Prambanan ticket but much less crowded than the Prambanan temple."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚲 Rent a Bicycle

Easily travel between Prambanan and Candi Sewu, or explore the vast complex.

🚶‍♂️ Walk the Grounds

Discover hidden corners and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this expansive site.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Thousand Temples

The Thousand Temples

Main Complex

Marvel at the sheer scale of Candi Sewu, meaning 'a thousand temples,' a testament to its historical significance.

Ancient Buddhist Architecture

Ancient Buddhist Architecture

Various Stupas and Shrines

Admire the intricate details and enduring beauty of this 8th-century Mahayana Buddhist temple complex.

Tranquil Greenery

Tranquil Greenery

Surrounding Grounds

Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere amidst lush greenery, offering a serene escape from the bustling tourist paths.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds at Candi Sewu

While Candi Sewu is less crowded than its famous neighbor Prambanan, visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours ensures a more serene experience. Consider renting a bicycle to easily navigate the expansive complex and reach the temple from Prambanan.

Explore Beyond Prambanan

Candi Sewu, the second-largest Buddhist temple complex in Indonesia, offers a unique glimpse into ancient history. It's often overlooked by visitors focused solely on Prambanan, making it a rewarding discovery for those who venture a bit further north.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Sewu temple complex you can found when visiting Prambanan Temple in Yogjakarta, Indonesia. It's also a great temple, a little smaller than Prambanan Temple complex. So I guarantee that you will never regret to visiting this such a beautiful and a great place, really fantastic and fascinating.. 😍😍😍😍 #candi #temple #prambanantemple #sewu #candisewu #sewutemple #jogja #jogjakarta #yogya #yogyakarta ...
al_manja18
39 likes • 584 views

🚲 Rent a Bicycle

Easily travel between Prambanan and Candi Sewu, or explore the vast complex. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Walk the Grounds

Discover hidden corners and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this expansive site. Reddit

📍 Candi Sewu Temple, Yogyakarta, Central Java, Indonesia Candi Sewu is the second largest Buddhist temple complex in Indonesia built during the 8th Century. Most visitors only go to the first temple on the property - Candi Prambanan Temple - which is also impressive, but you cannot enter the buildings and it is very crowded. Just walk a bit North you will arrive at the Candi Sewu Temple. 💡 There ...
vitamin_diggy
173 likes • 3.9K views
Candi Sewu #candisewu #candisewuprambanan #prambanan #temple #jogjaistimewa #jogjakarta
anang_hunaifi
25 likes • 477 views

📸 Capture the Scale

The vastness of Candi Sewu is best captured with wide-angle shots. Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated

The Indonesian sun can be intense; carry plenty of water. Reddit

Prambanan and Sewu temple. #ryoheisuzuki #鈴木亮平 #indonesia
ryoheisuzuki_cityhunter
44.5K likes • 685.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚲 Rent a Bicycle

Easily travel between Prambanan and Candi Sewu, or explore the vast complex. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Walk the Grounds

Discover hidden corners and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this expansive site. Reddit

📸 Capture the Scale

The vastness of Candi Sewu is best captured with wide-angle shots. Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated

The Indonesian sun can be intense; carry plenty of water. Reddit

🎟️ Included Ticket

Your Prambanan ticket often includes access to Candi Sewu. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Candi Sewu to be an impressive and historically significant Buddhist temple complex, often described as a hidden gem compared to the more crowded Prambanan. Its expansive grounds and accessible structures offer a unique and peaceful exploration of ancient Javanese history. While some restoration work may be visible, the overall experience is highly rewarding for those seeking a deeper understanding of the region's past.

"Not as impressive as the nearby Prambanan but still really awesome place to witness. It's included in your Prambanan ticket but much less crowded than the Prambanan temple. You can climb all the monument and enter rooms at will. As of September 2025 there's quite a few structures that are undergoing restoration so you may see construction materials."

Bobby C

"Visited Candi Sewu with the family as part of our must-do temple trip during the school holidays.
It was our first time doing a temple tour in Central Java — we started with Borobudur, then headed to Candi Sewu, which is in the same complex as Prambanan.

The temple complex is fascinating, full of historical vibes and legendary stories. It was such a great experience exploring Candi Sewu, especially seeing the ancient reliefs and realizing why it’s called “Sewu” (meaning “a thousand”) — there are so many temples there!

Taking kids to historical sites like this is a fun way for them to learn about Indonesia’s rich culture and compare what they see with what they learn in school books.

Must visit sites of temples in central java with plenty of greenery around the complex.

🅿️ Plenty parking spots
🚻 Clean and have several toilets around"

Sparkly Freeze

"One of the two that you can't miss when visiting Prambanan temple complex. It's a mixed temple of both Buddhist n Hindu influences. A bit far from its peers as it's located at the right back of the complex but quiet at time during the day. As the entrance ticket covers this one, you are recommended to visit all, at least this candi."

Lyda Hak

What People Like

Less crowded than Prambanan
Accessible structures
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Ongoing restoration work

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Candi Sewu is located about 900 meters north of the main Prambanan temple complex. You can easily walk there, rent a bicycle for a small fee, or take a short taxi ride. Many visitors choose to rent a bicycle to explore both sites efficiently. Reddit

Yes, typically your entrance ticket for the Prambanan temple complex also grants you access to Candi Sewu. It's recommended to visit both to fully appreciate the historical significance of the area. Reddit

From Yogyakarta city, you can take a public bus (like TransJogja) or hire a taxi or private car. Many tours also include transportation to both Prambanan and Candi Sewu. TikTok

Yes, there are plenty of parking spots available at Candi Sewu, making it convenient for those arriving by private vehicle or rented motorbike. Reddit

Candi Sewu is located about 35 km southeast of Borobudur Temple. It's common for visitors to combine visits to both, though it requires significant travel time between them. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, no. Your admission ticket for the Prambanan temple complex usually covers entry to Candi Sewu as well. Always confirm at the ticket counter. Reddit

Candi Sewu typically follows the same opening hours as the Prambanan temple complex, usually from early morning until late afternoon. It's best to check the official Prambanan website for the most current hours. TikTok

The entrance fee is usually bundled with the Prambanan ticket. If you are only visiting Candi Sewu, there might be a separate, smaller fee, but this is less common. Reddit

Unlike Prambanan, visitors can often climb and enter many of the structures at Candi Sewu, offering a more interactive experience. However, some areas might be restricted due to ongoing restoration. Reddit

Discounts are usually tied to the Prambanan ticket package. Look for combined tickets or consider visiting during promotional periods if available. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon offers cooler temperatures and softer light for photography. Weekdays are also less crowded than weekends. Instagram

Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore Candi Sewu thoroughly, especially if you plan to rent a bicycle and cover the entire complex. Reddit

While official guided tours might be more focused on Prambanan, local guides can often be hired at the site to provide insights into Candi Sewu's history and significance. TikTok

Dress modestly and comfortably, covering your shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious site. Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Reddit

Yes, Candi Sewu has clean toilets and several rest areas scattered around the complex, making it comfortable for visitors. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The main temple structures, the long corridors of smaller stupas, and the surrounding greenery offer excellent photo opportunities. The scale of the complex is impressive. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted at historical and religious sites in Indonesia. It's best to check with local authorities or the site management before flying a drone. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light, with golden hour casting a beautiful glow on the ancient stones. Instagram

Photography is generally allowed inside the accessible temple structures, but always be respectful and avoid using flash if it might damage ancient artifacts. Reddit

Many visitors capture the long, symmetrical lines of the smaller stupas leading to the main temple, or wide shots showcasing the entire complex against the sky. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Candi Sewu offers a fantastic opportunity for families to engage with history in a tangible way. Unlike some other sites where access is restricted, children can often climb and explore the structures here, making it more interactive and exciting. Reddit The vast open spaces are perfect for kids to run around (under supervision, of course!), and the sheer number of temples can spark their imagination about ancient civilizations. Reddit

Consider renting bicycles to make the journey from Prambanan and exploring the complex more fun for everyone. It's a great way to teach children about Indonesia's rich cultural heritage and compare historical sites with what they learn in school. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and dress them in comfortable clothing and shoes. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

Candi Sewu is an excellent value, as it's often included with your Prambanan entrance ticket, meaning you get to explore two major historical sites for the price of one. Reddit The most cost-effective way to reach the complex from Yogyakarta is by public bus. Once there, walking or renting a bicycle are the cheapest ways to get around the extensive grounds. Reddit

Pack your own water and snacks to save money on purchasing them at the site. While there might be opportunities to hire local guides, consider doing some research beforehand to learn about the history and significance of Candi Sewu to enhance your visit without extra cost. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Candi Sewu

Candi Sewu, meaning 'a thousand temples,' is an 8th-century Mahayana Buddhist temple complex located just north of the Hindu Prambanan Temple. It stands as the second-largest Buddhist temple complex in Indonesia, predating the famous Angkor Wat in Cambodia by nearly 400 years. The sheer scale of Candi Sewu, with its main temple, numerous smaller stupas, and surrounding mandalas, speaks volumes about the advanced civilization and religious devotion of the Sailendra Dynasty that commissioned it. TikTokInstagram

Unlike the towering, intricately carved structures of Prambanan, Candi Sewu presents a more sprawling and perhaps more intimate experience. Visitors can often climb and explore many of its structures, offering a unique perspective on ancient Buddhist architecture and layout. The complex's name, 'a thousand temples,' reflects the numerous smaller shrines that once surrounded the central sanctuary, though many have since been lost to time or are undergoing restoration. Reddit

The proximity of Candi Sewu to Prambanan is significant, suggesting a period of religious coexistence or perhaps a deliberate placement to showcase the influence of both Buddhism and Hinduism in ancient Java. Exploring Candi Sewu provides a deeper understanding of Indonesia's rich cultural tapestry and its historical connections to major world religions. Instagram

Navigating the Complex: Getting Around Candi Sewu

Candi Sewu is an expansive site, and comfortable footwear is a must. While it's a pleasant walk from the main Prambanan complex (about 900 meters), many visitors opt to rent a bicycle. This allows for easy traversal of the grounds, enabling you to cover more distance and reach the further parts of the complex without fatigue. Reddit

Bicycles can typically be rented near the entrance of the Prambanan complex or at designated points within the Candi Sewu area. The paths are generally well-maintained, winding through grassy areas and connecting the various temple structures. This makes exploring the 'thousand temples' a delightful and unhurried experience. Reddit

For those who prefer not to walk or cycle, local transport options like trishaws or small carts might be available, though less common than bicycle rentals. The key is to allow ample time to soak in the atmosphere and appreciate the scale of this ancient Buddhist marvel. Reddit

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