Discover the hidden beauty of the Selogriyo Temple and Java's rice terraces on a day trip from Yogyakarta. Walk through green landscapes, visit a hidden 9th-century Hindu temple, and enjoy a traditional meal of Kupat Tahu.
Begin the day with a pick-up from your hotel in Yogyakarta or the Borobudur area. Ride in a comfortable, air-conditioned private car with a friendly, English-speaking driver who will assist you throughout the day. During the drive, enjoy views of the countryside, passing local markets, rice fields, and mountain scenery.
Depending on your pickup location, it will take around 1.5 to 2.5 hours to reach Candisari Village, the starting point for your soft trekking journey to Selogriyo Temple. Once you arrive at the village, begin a light walk through the rice terraces. This peaceful path winds through green fields and small irrigation canals, offering amazing views of Mount Sumbing in the background.
See farmers working in the fields, children playing in the distance, and feel the fresh breeze from the hills. The walk to the temple takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and it's not too difficult — just wear comfortable shoes.
At the top, hidden on the slope of Mount Sumbing, you'll reach Selogriyo Temple — a small, ancient Hindu temple built during the 8th or 9th century. It stands quietly in nature, surrounded by green hills and rice terraces. Unlike Borobudur or Prambanan, Selogriyo is far from the crowds, making it a peaceful place to reflect, take photos, and learn about early Javanese culture.
The temple is simple, yet elegant, built with volcanic stone and showing signs of centuries-old craftsmanship. Your guide or driver will explain the history in simple English and help you understand the cultural background of the temple and its connection to the environment around it.
After exploring the temple and taking in the mountain air, walk back down the same scenic path through the rice fields. Notice new views on the way down and have more chances to stop for photos or chat with local farmers.
After the trek, it's time to recharge with a local specialty called Kupat Tahu — a beloved dish in Central Java. Kupat Tahu consists of soft rice cakes (kupat), fried tofu, fresh bean sprouts, and cabbage, all served in a flavorful sweet-and-savory peanut sauce, topped with fried shallots and crackers (kerupuk).
Enjoy it at a local eatery where the taste is authentic and cooked with care. The dish is simple but incredibly satisfying, and you'll enjoy it at a local eatery where the taste is authentic and cooked with care. The small, humble restaurant is where locals gather daily. The setting may be simple, but the flavor is rich and meaningful.
After lunch and a bit of rest, drive back to your hotel in Yogyakarta or Borobudur area. If you wish to stop for photos, shop for local snacks, or pause at a scenic viewpoint along the way, your driver will be happy to assist.