Highlights
- Stroll among the many Buddha statues and intricate carvings of Borobudur Temple
- Learn the centuries-old art form of batik at a hands-on workshop
- Walk through rolling hills filled with green rice paddies at Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
- Relax and refresh in your villa's private pool at Jimbaran's Four Seasons Resort
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Yogyakarta, Java's Cultural Jewel | Yogyakarta |
| Day 2 | Guided Excursion to Borobudur, Candi Pawon & Mendut Temples | Yogyakarta |
| Day 3 | Taman Sari Water Palace, Keraton Yogyakarta, Hands-On Batik Workshop | Yogyakarta |
| Day 4 | Tour Prambanan Temple Complex, Ramayana Ballet with Dinner | Yogyakarta |
| Day 5 | Fly to Bali, Transfer to Munduk, Free Afternoon | Munduk, Bali |
| Day 6 | Morning Cooking Class, Traditional Balinese Massage | Munduk, Bali |
| Day 7 | Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, Munduk's Hidden Waterfalls & Tamblingan Lake | Munduk, Bali |
| Day 8 | Jeep Adventure in the Batukaru Valley | Munduk, Bali |
| Day 9 | Visit Ulun Danu Bratan & Leke Leke Waterfall, Transfer to Jimbaran | Jimbaran, Bali |
| Day 10 | Depart Jimbaran |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Yogyakarta, Java's Cultural Jewel
Welcome to Indonesia! Your flight lands on the volcano-dotted island of Java, which sits between Sumatra and Bali. Upon arrival, your driver will collect you from the airport and transport you to Yogyakarta, a city known for its art scene and rich culture. You'll be staying at the Amanjiwo Resort and Hotel, a luxury property overlooking the massive temple complex of Borobudur. Here, you'll find tastefully decorated suites, most of which include private pools and panoramic views of the temple. Other amenities include daily tea service, cultural lectures, and an on-site spa with various wellness packages.
Take some time to rest and regroup; then, you're free to explore. Visit landmarks such as the Sultan's Palace, which was built in the 1700s under Sultan Hamengkubuwono I. Learn about the region's history and the role of the sultanate in modern Indonesia as you wander through the palace complex, admiring the stunning architecture and the museum's display of royal artifacts. You can also catch a traditional Javanese dance performance or music show in the palace courtyard.
If you're interested in the city's arts and culture, you'll find incredible street art on nearly every corner. There's also the Affandi Museum and the Jogja Gallery for contemporary Indonesian art and information on the region's artistic traditions. Check out the workshops and cultural centers dedicated to traditional batik and weaving, or see a traditional wayang kulit (shadow puppet) performance, a centuries-old art form that combines storytelling, music, and intricate puppetry.
Day 2: Guided Excursion to Borobudur, Candi Pawon & Mendut Temples
The day begins with a private tour of the majestic Borobudur. This ninth-century temple is considered one of the most significant Buddhist monuments in the world and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple has thousands of intricate relief panels and more than 500 Buddha statues. Meet your private guide and explore the various levels of the temple while listening to the stories and myths behind the statues and panels.
Continue to the temples of Pawon and Mendut, which are Buddhist temples also built in the ninth century. The three temples are in a straight line, making them easy to access on foot. Start at Mendut, just under 2 miles (3 km) from Borobudur. The temple was built and completed during the reign of King Indra of the Sailendra dynasty, and your guide will take you through the picturesque grounds, which include giant stone statues and intricately carved stairways and chambers.
Your final stop is Pawon Temple, which was also built during the Syailendra Dynasty. While smaller than the other temples, it's still considered an important part of the history and culture of the three, and you'll find a large entrance gate adorned with a carved Kala Makara, sculptures depicting flowers and vines, and niches with carved images of the god Kubera. After your tour, your guide will return you to your hotel, where you can relax and enjoy a quiet dinner.
Day 3: Taman Sari Water Palace, Keraton Yogyakarta, Hands-On Batik Workshop
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Learn more about Indonesia's rich history with a visit to Tamansari Water Castle, a royal garden and retreat built in the mid-18th century that served as the garden for the Sultan of Yogyakarta. With your private guide, you'll learn about the palace's complex system of water features, including a large artificial lake, canals, and fountains. Take in the harmonious blend of Javanese and European architectural styles, observe the partially restored buildings and pavilions, and walk through underground tunnels built initially as hideouts.
Afterward, head to Keraton Yogyakarta, an 18th-century royal palace that serves as the official residence of the Sultan of Yogyakarta. Walk through the pavilions and courtyards, learn about the palace's architecture and history, and experience the rich heritage of the Yogyakarta Sultanate through a traditional Javanese dance and music performance.
Finish today's cultural immersion with a batik workshop. This centuries-old art form involves applying wax patterns to fabric before dyeing, creating beautiful, intricate designs. You'll meet a local batik expert and get introduced to their techniques and tools, how the fabrics are sourced, and the process of making the natural dyes. With your instructor's help, you'll create your own piece of art, leaving you with a one-of-a-kind souvenir to bring home as a memento of your time in Indonesia.
Day 4: Tour Prambanan Temple Complex, Ramayana Ballet with Dinner
Today's excursion takes you to Prambanan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Southeast Asia's largest Hindu temple complexes. The complex includes a central temple dedicated to Shiva and several smaller temples dedicated to other Hindu deities. Walk through the main complex and see the intricate carvings, view the towering spires, and then stroll through the surrounding park and some of the lesser-known temples in the area. Along the way, your guide will explain more about the history and legends surrounding the temples.
After the tour, immerse yourself in the ancient traditions of Indonesia by attending the Ramayana Ballet performance, which takes place at the temple. Watch more than 200 dancers move and flow to the music of a traditional Javanese and Balinese orchestra as they tell the Rama and Sita in one of Java's most spectacular dance performances. The show also includes a delicious Indonesian dinner, after which your driver will return you to your hotel.
Day 5: Fly to Bali, Transfer to Munduk, Free Afternoon
Your next destination is the island of Bali, part of the Lesser Sunda Islands, known for its expansive landscapes, ornate temples, and rich cultural traditions. Your private driver will collect you from the airport and transfer you to Munduk, where you'll check in at Munduk Moding Plantation Resort. Nestled in a working coffee plantation and surrounded by lush jungle, this 5-star eco-luxury lodge offers rooms and villas with private terraces, pools, and an open-air feel that aligns perfectly with the abundant nature around you.
After check-in, you can relax at the hotel, take advantage of their spa amenities, enjoy a dip in their infinity pool, or explore Munduk under your own steam. This northern village, located on the cooler, greener side of the island, has plenty of outdoor activities worth seeing, from seeking out hidden waterfalls to hiking to panoramic vistas.
Those wanting a deep dive into Bali's culture won't be disappointed. Munduk is home to the famed water temple, Ulun Danu Bratan, on Lake Beratan. The temple almost appears to float on the water, and you can lose yourself in the peaceful scenery for hours. If you're feeling extra adventurous, you can rent motorbikes and cruise around the area, visit impressive waterfalls such as Aling Aling or GitGit, and grab a bite to eat at a local warung (small restaurant).
Day 6: Morning Cooking Class, Traditional Balinese Massage
Discover more of Bali's history and culture with a traditional cooking class. Your driver will collect you from your hotel, and you'll meet a local chef who'll show you how to prepare some of the region's most notable dishes, such as lawar (meat mixed with vegetables), nasi goreng (rice) and satay (grilled meat). Chop vegetables and herbs, grind spices, and delight in a hands-on experience that not only refines your culinary skills but also allows you to connect with the essence of Balinese culture. Afterward, sit down for lunch and conversation with your hosts.
This afternoon, indulge in the expertise and traditions of a rejuvenating and pampering Balinese massage. You can choose between one- or two-hour massages, with options for body, foot, facials, and add-ons such as essential oils or coffee scrubs. Immerse yourself in a truly blissful experience and come away refreshed and fully relaxed.
Day 7: Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, Munduk's Hidden Waterfalls & Tamblingan Lake
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, then head out with your driver to see some of the island's other popular sites. Start at Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, a UNESCO-honored site encompassing over 1,400 acres (600 ha). View the rolling hills and valleys filled with lush green rice paddies, and follow a walking trail to the most scenic spots as your guide shows you specific techniques the farmers use to cultivate and grow the rice.
From here, you'll stop off to see some of Munduk's local plantations and waterfalls. Visit the various plantations and meet their owners, then explore hidden waterfalls and cool off with a refreshing swim. End the day on the shores of Tamblingan Lake, a secluded spot away from the popular tourist trails. Enjoy the tranquility of the glass-like waters, and if the weather permits, you'll have a chance to see more of the lake on a ride in a traditional canoe. Visit the small temples dotted around the lakeshore, including Ulun Danu Tamblingan temple, which dates back to the 10th century.
Day 8: Jeep Adventure in the Batukaru Valley
Take a 4WD Jeep adventure across Bali, meeting your guides and driving to the Batukaru Valley, a scenic jaunt that takes you through spectacular scenery and picturesque villages. If you didn't see enough of Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, you can stop here again, or for some high-flying fun, head directly to Munduk's Twin Lakes, where you'll find bridges and swings that take you directly over the water. Stop for lunch and a coffee break at a local café, then finish with a visit to the resort area of Bedugul for views of Lake Bratan and Ulun Danu Bratan temple.
Day 9: Visit Ulun Danu Bratan & Leke Leke Waterfall, Transfer to Jimbaran
You're off to Jimbaran today, a fishing village and resort town approximately two hours from Munduk. Before you depart, you'll have time to take a self-guided tour of any sites you haven't seen. Ulun Danu Bratan temple is a must-see if you couldn't visit it earlier in the week. Spend time exploring the compound, its tropical gardens, and the ornately carved shrines.
You can also hike to Leke Leke Waterfall, a gorgeous hidden gem tucked away in the jungles outside of town. The hike, which is less than a mile long, is relatively easy, although you may have to traverse some uneven terrain. This is an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts, as the natural light filtering through the jungle canopy creates an impressive backdrop to the cascades.
This afternoon, your driver will collect you from your hotel and transport you to Jimbaran, where you'll check in at your accommodations at the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay. Sheltered in a quiet bay right on the water, you'll enjoy well-appointed rooms with traditional Balinese decor, options for villas with private pools and ocean views, and a wealth of amenities at your fingertips. Make the most of your last night in Bali with a delicious sunset dinner at the resort.
Day 10: Depart Jimbaran
If there's time before your departure, soak up a bit more sun at the hotel pool or ask your driver to take you to one of the region's many beaches for some swimming or snorkeling. You can also do some last-minute souvenir shopping in Jimbaran or visit a spa to ensure you're refreshed before your flight.
Afterward, your adventures in Indonesia come to a close. At the appointed time, you'll be transported to the airport for your journey home. Safe travels!
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