Candi Borobudur, as one of the world’s heritage sites, attracts thousands of tourists every year. However, apart from enjoying the beauty of the temple, there are many interesting tourist attractions around it that are a shame to miss. Among the various choices, the three most prominent destinations are Punthuk Setumbu, Candirejo Tourism Village, and Bukit Rhema. In this article, we will focus on Bukit Rhema, an increasingly popular destination that offers unique experiences and spectacular views.
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1. Punthuk Setumbu: Heaven for Sunrise Lovers
Punthuk Setumbu is one of the most favorite tourist attractions for sunrise view hunters. Located about 4 km from Candi Borobudur, this hill offers stunning natural views. From the peak, visitors can witness the beauty of the sunrise against the backdrop of the majestic Candi Borobudur and towering mountains. The best time to visit here is in the morning, around 05.00 WIB, when the sun’s rays slowly begin to shine into the temple, creating a beautiful silhouette among the morning mist.
To reach Punthuk Setumbu, visitors must walk up the hill for approximately 5-10 minutes. Even though the track is quite challenging, the results obtained are well worth the effort spent. Apart from sunrise views, Punthuk Setumbu is also a favorite location for landscape photography.
2. Candirejo Tourism Village: Harmony of Nature and Culture
For those of you who want to experience traditional Javanese rural life, Candirejo Tourism Village is the perfect destination. Located just a few kilometers from Candi Borobudur, this village offers a different tourist experience, namely being one with nature and local culture.
At Candirejo Tourism Village, visitors can take part in various activities, such as cycling around the village, learning to make batik, planting rice, and interacting directly with the local community. The beautiful and friendly atmosphere makes this village very suitable for family or group tourism.
Apart from that, visitors can also enjoy traditional dishes served in people’s homes. With the friendliness of the people and enchanting natural beauty, Candirejo Tourism Village provides an authentic and relaxing tourist experience.
3. Bukit Rhema: The Iconic Gereja Ayam
Now, it’s time to focus on Bukit Rhema, one of the most unique and must-visit destinations near Borobudur. Bukit Rhema is often known as “Gereja Ayam” because the shape of the building resembles a giant chicken or dove. Located in a green hilly area, this place offers more than just natural beauty.
Even though it is often called Gereja Ayam, this building is actually intended as a house of prayer that is open to all religions. Inside the building, there are quiet spaces for prayer and meditation, as well as areas for spiritual reflection.
However, the main attraction of Bukit Rhema is its incredible panoramic views. From the top of the building (the chicken’s head), visitors can enjoy a 360 degree view which includes rice fields, forests, and Candi Borobudur towering in the distance. Bukit Rhema is also a favorite place for photographers and social media content hunters because of its uniqueness and beautiful scenic backdrop.
Apart from spiritual tourism and natural views, Bukit Rhema also offers culinary tours at shops located in the building area. Here, visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional foods with local flavors, such as corn rice, fried bananas and warm traditional drinks which are suitable for enjoying the cool atmosphere of the hills.
Not only that, Bukit Rhema is also an interesting historical witness to explore. The construction, which was stopped and only resumed a few years later, adds to the historical value of this place. Even though it was initially little known, now Bukit Rhema has become one of the most iconic tourist destinations around Borobudur, attracting tourists from all over.
Borobudur is not only a magnificent temple full of history, but is also surrounded by various interesting tourist destinations. From sunrise views at Punthuk Setumbu, cultural experiences at Candirejo Tourism Village, to uniqueness and spirituality at Bukit Rhema, these places offer diverse and memorable travel experiences.
If you plan to visit Borobudur, don’t miss Bukit Rhema as one of the mandatory destinations that will leave a deep impression. Apart from enjoying the view, you can also feel the serenity and natural beauty that is hard to find elsewhere.