Prambanan is a 9th-century Hindu temple compound near Yogyakarta, Indonesia — the largest in the country and the second-largest in Southeast Asia after Angkor Wat. Dedicated to the Trimurti (Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva), it is famed for its tall, pointed spires crowned by the 47-metre Shiva temple. It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.
The 47-metre central Shiva temple and the Ramayana epic carved along its inner walls
The three Trimurti shrines (Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva) amid a compound that once held some 240 structures
A striking silhouette at sunset as the sun drops between the three main temples to the west
The open-air Ramayana Ballet on Tue/Thu/Sat evenings (moved indoors to the Trimurti Theatre in the rainy season)
Easy to combine with Borobudur or Ratu Boko Palace on a joint ticket
Good to know
CautionSome drivers or tour touts buy discounted local/student tickets (up to 50% off) but charge you the full rate, pocketing the difference. Check official prices in advance, watch the tickets being purchased, or book through a reputable operator.
CautionUnofficial taxis frequently overcharge. Use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek for transparent fares, or insist on the meter — if they refuse, take another car.
MannersThis is a living religious site as well as a UNESCO monument. Do not climb on the carved reliefs, keep your voice low near the inner chambers, and be respectful when worshippers are praying or meditating at the shrines.
RulesIf you arrive in shorts or a sleeveless top, you must wear a free sarong provided at the entrance (no charge, no deposit). Avoid entering any structures that are cordoned off as restricted.
SafetySince the 2006 earthquake, some stones have collapsed or cracked; interior staircases are steep and narrow and stone surfaces are uneven. Wear closed, low-heeled shoes rather than flip-flops.
SeasonBeing near the equator, midday sun and heat are intense. Bring a hat, water and sunscreen, and aim for cooler early mornings or the softer light of late afternoon.
Practical info
Typically open 06:00–17:15. Foreigner pricing depends on whether you buy a single or a combined ticket with Ratu Boko/Borobudur (2026: roughly IDR 380k single, IDR 600k+ combined). It sits about 17 km northeast of central Yogyakarta. Confirm current fees, hours and ballet schedules with the official ticket office before your visit.
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