14-DAY JAVA AND BALI GRAND TOUR

From: Jakarta
To: Special Region of Yogyakarta

From: Special Region of Yogyakarta
To: Special Region of Yogyakarta

A luxury property elegantly standing on the first steps of the Merapi’s flank. Its concept has been designed to trigger the feeling of being cocooned, and its location firmly supports this idea. Peaceful, quiet, relaxing and refreshing; a secluded nest offering homey and delightful experiences to its guests.

Located in the serene area of Palagan, surrounded by a golf course and residences, Sofia Boutique Residence is 8.5 kilometres to Adisutjipto international airport, 5.9 kilometres to Malioboro area, 7.1 kilometres to the Sultan Palace (Keraton), 14 kilometres to Prambanan Temple – a UNESCO World Heritage site, 16 kilometres to the Merapi golf course and 23 kilometres to Borobudur Temple – a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Address: Sofia Boutique Residence, Jalan Karya Utama, Panggung Sari, Sariharjo, Sleman Regency, Special Region of
Yogyakarta, Indonesia

From: Yogyakarta
To: Prambanan Temple

Built on the 9th century, the Prambanan Temple is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia. The first mention of Prambanan was in the Syiwagrha Inscription written in 856 AD, having been built by the Mataram Kingdom around the time.

It consists of three main temples for the Trimurti; Shiva the destroyer of the universe, Vishnu the keeper of the universe, and Brahma the creator of the universe. Back in the glory days of the old Mataram Kingdom, Prambanan was used as a Candi Agung for various royal and religious ceremonies, .

The high structures are typical of Hindu architecture, the layout of the temple complex is in a Mandala, similar to Borobudur. As a symbol of the Hindu cosmos, the temple is vertically divided into three parts. The three parts are divided into Jaba and Bhurloka; Tengahan and Bhuvarloka, and Njeron and Svarloka.

Prambanan is high and slim compared to Borobudur, with the main Shiva shrine standing at 47 meters in the middle of the complex surrounded with smaller temples. At the Garbagriha (the innermost sanctum) of this temple sits a three metre statue of Shiva.

The central body of the temples and the central square of the complex represents the ‘middle world’, a place for those who have left their worldly possessions to see the light of truth. The middle world has four rows of 224 small shrines, all are identical. This compound consists of four levels lined with stupas, with the innermost level being the highest. All stupas in this compound are the same size.

Unfortunately, almost all structures in the middle square are now in ruins as the temple was abandoned in the 10th century when the court moved to East Java. Although, locals knew about the ruins, the site was not excavated until early 19th century. Before this time, the Javanese developed legends around its creation.

?guided

Address: Kranggan, Bokoharjo, Prambanan, Sleman Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Built in the 9th century during the reign of the Sailendra Dynasty, the temple design follows Javanese Buddhist architecture, which blends the Indonesian indigenous cult of ancestor worship and the Buddhist concept of attaining Nirvana.

The temple demonstrates the influences of Gupta art that reflects India’s influence on the region, yet there are enough indigenous scenes and elements incorporated to make Borobudur uniquely Indonesian.

The monument is a shrine to the Lord Buddha and a place for Buddhist pilgrimage. The pilgrim journey begins at the base of the monument and follows a path around the monument, ascending to the top through three levels symbolic of Buddhist cosmology: Kāmadhātu (the world of desire), Rupadhatu (the world of forms) and Arupadhatu (the world of formlessness).

The monument guides pilgrims through an extensive system of stairways and corridors with 1,460 narrative relief panels on the walls and the balustrades. Borobudur has the largest and most complete ensemble of Buddhist reliefs in the world.

?guided

Address: Jl. Badrawati, Kw. Candi Borobudur, Borobudur, Magelang, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia

From: Borobudur Temple
To: Yogyakarta

From: Yogyakarta
To: Dieng Plateau

Formed by the eruption of Mount Prau, Dieng Plateau is a caldera complex that, at one point, was filled with water and is now dried up. The area still has volcanic activity in the form of poisonous lakes and sulphuric fumes.

Around 2,000 metres above sea level, the Javanese Hindu’s built many temples here, declaring its sanctity, however only 8 remains. The name itself derives from Sanskrit to mean Abode of the Gods and was built in the same style as Prambanan, during the reign of Sanjaya Dynasty. The temples were named after the characters in an ancient Javanese Hindu legend.

?guided

Address: Bakal Buntu, Bakal, Batur, Banjarnegara, Central Java, Indonesia

Dieng Plateau was formed when a volcanic explosion left lakes, hot springs and craters all around the area. One of these craters if the Sikidang crater which bubbles with hot sulphuric mud.

Placed high up on a mountain, you can walk all around the crater which is quite an impressive thing to do when in Dieng Plateau.

?guided

Address: Sikidang, Tempelsari, Tretep, Kabupaten Temanggung, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia

Although Arjuna does not exude Javanese grandeur, it is definitely the most photographed temple that is left on the Dieng Plateau.

Part of a complex of some of the earliest surviving temples in Java, it is estimated that this complex (originally consisting of around 100 temples) was built around two centuries before those found in Yogyakarta. Arjuna offers a unique insight into the beginnings of religion in the region in compact, box-like form.

?guided

Address: Karangsari, Dieng Kulon, Batur, Banjarnegara, Central Java 53456, Indonesia

From: Arjuna Temple
To: Yogyakarta

From: Sofia Boutique Residence
To: Yogyakarta International Airport

Of all the caves in the Gunungkidul region, Jomblang is one of the most mesmerising and also one of the biggest in Indonesia.

This unique, vertical cave with a fascinating, dense forest below. A glimmer of light casts down, shedding light on to the trees. Despite the light that shines through makes the cave feel like infinite space. You’ll explore its depths and feel the true sound of silence, a great caving adventure.

Using the single-rope technique (SRT), you will go down 20 metres to get to the entrance of Jomblang cave. Your experienced caving instructors will assist and keep you safe at all times. From Jomblang Cave, you will head to Grubug cave, a thrilling 300-metre underground trek, passing an underground river. The beams of sunlight shining into Grubug cave, which has a depth of a 100 metres, is an amazing view and the locals refer to it as ”light from heaven”.

?guided

Address: Jetis Wetan, Pacarejo, Semanu, Kabupaten Gunung Kidul, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta 55893, Indonesia

From: Special Region of Yogyakarta
To: Surabaya

From: Surabaya
To: Surabaya

Jiwa Jawa Resort Bromo exists to match the natural beauty with a soulful service for those with an appreciation of beauty. Enjoy a breathtaking view from 2,000 metres above sea level and dine under the stars where nature’s sound serenades you.

From the fresh ingredients, they create an array of food and beverages with an emphasis on local culinary heritage. Combined with fine culinary know-how, dining at Jiwa Jawa Resort Bromo is truly an experience.

The resort is built with environmental consciousness as a priority, as best exemplified by their no tree cutting policy and proper waste management. In every step of development, they do it with a commitment to minimise carbon footprints. They also source all of the food locally and organically. All the resort’s efforts go on to show a deep appreciation of the breathtaking natural beauty.

Address: Jiwa Jawa Bromo, Jalan Raya Bromo, Wonotoro, Probolinggo, East Java, Indonesia

During your free time, you can go explore the beautiful surroundings and enjoy the lovely mountain views.

The cool climate and peaceful ambience of this village in the mountains of East Java provide the perfect setting to relax after the intensive program of the last four days. Go to sleep early as tomorrow you need to wake up early for the magical Bromo sunrise tour.

Address: East Java, Indonesia

Part of the Tengger massif, Mount Bromo is an active volcano, 2,329 metres above sea level.

While Mount Bromo is not the highest peak in the massif, it is the most well-known, attracting thousands of tourists who want to see its steaming craters every year.

Found within the plain that is known as the Sea of Sand, Mount Bromo was named after the Hindu God, Brahma, derived from the Javanese pronunciation of the name. On the 14th day of the Javanese Hindu Yadnya Kasada festival, locals travel to the mountains to give offerings to appease the gods. The festival dates back to some of the very first people to settle around the mountain.

The volcano erupts every few years, sometimes less, sometimes more – it is a volcano! The Indonesian Centre of Vulcanology and Geology Hazard Mitigation (ICVGH) send out warnings if they suspect an eruption may happy, encourages locals and visitors to remain a specific distance from the volcano, which is usually around one kilometre.

You will wake up before sunrise, enjoy a quick breakfast and hop into a Jeep that will take you to see Mount Bromo. The jeep first takes you to Penanjakan, where you will watch the jaw-droppingly beautiful sunrise over Bromo. You will continue by Jeep, driving through a desert-like landscape to get to the foot of Mount Bromo, one of the most iconic mountains of Indonesia. This majestic and still active volcano sits inside the massive Tengger caldera, a volcanic crater, and is surrounded by Laut Pasir which translates to ‘sea of sand. To get to the crater, you can climb to the top.

?guided

Address: Mt Bromo, Area Gn. Bromo, Podokoyo, Tosari, Pasuruan, East Java, Indonesia

From: Mount Bromo
To: Mount Ijen

You will head back to the hotel to take a nice warm relaxing shower thinking back on the spectacular images of this morning. After a good rest, you have free time to enjoy, exploring the surrounding area some more if you wish to do so. Then, you will be transferred to your next destination – Mount Ijen.

Jiwa Jawa Resort Ijen aims to reflect a unique combination of East Javanese culture, extended hospitality and environmentally friendly practice.

Located between Bondowoso and Banyuwangi regencies, the location is rather discreet but inviting. Explorers who travel far would be able to witness magnificent view of the blue fire caldera at dusk and of the turquoise lake surrounded with reef-like sulphur walls at noon, with a tranquil place to rest at night.

The resort strives to be both environmentally and culturally conscious in one harmonious balance with proper waste management, no tree cutting policy and carbon footprints minimisation.

Address: Jiwa Jawa Resort Ijen, Dusun Blimbingsari, Tamansari, Banyuwangi Regency, East Java, Indonesia

Mount Ijen (aka Ijen volcano) is a quiet but active volcano. It is set amidst a stunning landscape of volcanic cones. The beautiful turquoise coloured sulfur lake that resides at the heart of Ijen volcano is the largest acidic lake in the world and the result of a volcanic crater.

Very early in the morning, under the light of the moon and stars, your local ranger will guide you on a trek to the crater of Mount Ijen.

?guided

Address: Jalan Kawah Ijen, Dusun Jambu, Tamansari, Licin, Kabupaten Banyuwangi, Jawa Timur 68454, Indonesia

From: Jiwa Jawa Ijen
To: Java

From: Java
To: Bali

A ferry will be taking you from Java to Menjangan Island on
the island of Bali.

From: Menjangan Island
To: West Bali National Park

Located on Kotal Beach within the protected West Bali National Park, the NusaBay Menjangan by WHM sits with its deserted white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and coralladen ocean. It is a boutique beach resort that speaks of sunfilled days and enchanted evenings, surrounded by pristine natural beauty.

The beachside Waka Bar & Restaurant is an antique “Joglo” pavilion with carved teakwood pillars and beams overlooking the white sand beach and turquoise blue ocean. Fresh seafood, western and traditional Indonesian dishes offer guests a range of delicious flavours to choose from.

NusaBay Menjangan offers traditional Balinese and aromatherapy massages in a dedicated spa building near the swimming pool. The perfect antidote to aching muscles from long trips or a day exploring the national park.

Address: NusaBay Menjangan by WHM, Sumber Klampok, Buleleng Regency, Bali, Indonesia

Part of the West Bali National Park, the uninhabited Menjangan Island is reached by boat from Pemuteran Beach in North Bali. Measuring around 3,800 hectares, the island is home to the rare Javan rusa deer, locally known as ‘Menjangan’, which gave the island its name.

The island is a big draw for divers and snorkellers as its coastline is fringed with calm waters and coral gardens teeming with marine life.

To enter the island, you’ll require a park guide and permit, which helps to preserve the pristine nature and island’s collection of shrines, including Segara Giri Dharma Kencana Temple.

?guided

Address: Menjangan Island, Sumber Klampok, Gerokgak, Buleleng Regency, Bali, Indonesia

From: Menjangan Island
To: Ubud

Bali’s largest Buddhist monastery, Brahmavihara-Arama is located up in the hills of Banjar. Opened in 1970, the complex consists of a number of meditation rooms, libraries, beautiful gardens and an impressive replica of Borobudur in Java, the world’s largest Buddhist archaeological site.

The monastery, whilst not obviously Buddhist, is decorated in beautiful Balinese carvings, decorations, statues and a bright orange roof. The views from the monastery spread down into the valley, across the rice paddies and out into the sea.

?guided

Address: Gg. Sahadewa, Banjar Tegeha, Banjar, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81152, Indonesia

The second largest lake in Bali, Beratan Lake sits 1,239 metres above sea level next to Mount Bratan and Mount Catur.

A popular place for watersports such as parasailing, motor boating, jet skiing, water skiing and canoeing, the area surrounding Beratan Lake is home to an abundance of plants and trees, exotic birds and monkeys.

The important temple of Pura Ulun Danu sits at the lake’s edge and is most noticeable upon approach.

?guided

Address: Candikuning, Baturiti, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82191, Indonesia

Located on the shores of Lake Beratan, Ulun Danu Beratan is an important Shaivite water temple complex. It is used as a ceremony base to make offerings to the Balinese water, lake and river goddess, Dewi Danu. Ulun Danu Beratan is also known as ‘the temple of the lake.’

Water temples serve the whole region in the outflow area; downstream there are many smaller water temples that are specific to each irrigation association.

?guided

Address: Danau Beratan, Candikuning, Baturiti, Kabupaten Tabanan, Bali 82191, Indonesia

Jannata Resort & Spa is a boutique property with tranquil valley views in the rural village of Sebali, just outside of the cultural destination of Ubud. It is attuned to the surrounding environment through a thoughtful design that respects Bali’s rich artistry and cultural heritage.

Overlooking the rainforest and the Wos River, the Jannata Resort & Spa stands on the edge of a stunning valley, surrounded by lush rainforests and picturesque rice terraces.

Each villa is designed with the care to complete the harmony with nature featuring traditional Alang Alang thatched roofs.

The Balinese indigenous flora and fauna such as cocoa and coffee trees blend serenely with bamboo, flame trees and orchids to create a unique tropical paradise. The Amateras Restaurant at the resort boasts an astonishing position overlooking the Balinese rainforest and the Wos River. The chefs offer a menu of international specialities, creatively combining traditional dishes with contemporary culinary techniques.

Address: Jannata Resort and Spa, Kelusa, Bali, Indonesia

This morning, you’ll rise early in Ubud and enjoy an early morning yoga class and a scrumptious breakfast at the resort.

Yoga is the beating heart of the spiritual town in Ubud and it is the perfect place to enjoy a class.

Address: Jannata Resort and Spa, Kelusa, Bali, Indonesia

You will be transported to Ubud’s streaming Ayung River where you will go on a thrilling rafting adventure.

You will spend 2.5 hours on the river, rafting 11 kilometres in this gorgeous lush green river valley, passing waterfalls, cliffs, and rapids.

The friendly and experienced team of instructors are trained according to international safety standards. The trip ends with a warm shower and a delightful buffet lunch. Bring some extra clothes for you will definitely get wet during this river adventure.

?guided

Address: Jl. Sidakarya, Sidakarya, Denpasar Sel., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80224, Indonesia

A nine-kilometre hill track, Campuhan Ridge Walk is an easy and free nature trek which leads you from one point in the highland town of Ubud to another.

The area is a beautiful and peaceful escape from the bustle of Ubud town. The landscape takes you through lush fields, past local houses and past beautiful trees and rice paddies all along a paved footpath.

In recent years, the Campuhan Ridge Walk has become an Instagram hotspot so people often come here to snap the perfect shot.

?guided

Address: Kelusa, Payangan, Jl. Raya Campuan, Sayan, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia

From: Ubud
To: NUSA DUA

A popular destination in Bali, Tegenungan Waterfall is one of the most popular falls on the island. Situated halfway between Ubud and Denpasar, Tegenungan Waterfall is surrounded by lush green wildlife and the cascading water creates a beautiful backdrop to a relaxing visit.

Reached by driving through rice paddies, the falls are then a few minutes walk from a small road where several local restaurants are situated. As you walk down to the waterfall, you’ll be able to admire the view of the green valley with the tumbling water as its centre.

?guided

Address: Jalan Ir. Sutami, Kemenuh, Sukawati, Kemenuh, Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80581, Indonesia

Situated in the exclusive compound of Nusa Dua area, on one of Bali’s most famed beachfront, Inaya Putri Bali offers a wealth of modern hospitality, touched by a sense of place on the beautiful island of Bali.

This Nusa Dua beach resort is not only an ideal destination for your ultimate Bali getaway, but it also offers a complete Island of the Gods cultural experience.

With a choice of well-appointed Bali accommodation options, Inaya Putri Bali ensures a quality stay in a stylish environment for honeymooners, holidaymakers, families and travellers alike.

Discover Inaya Dewi Spa where a great treat is here available for you to enjoy. Natural daylight, smooth music and fragrance are staged to create a true moment of total relaxation. At the resort, you can also enjoy one of Inaya’s six dining options.

Address: Inaya Putri Bali, Benoa, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia

Bukit meaning ‘hill’ in Bahasa Indonesia, Bukit Peninsula sits at the southern end of Bali and is home to dramatic cliffside restaurants and resorts, incredible views of the ocean, white sanded beaches, clear turquoise waters and endless beauty.

Popular with surfers due to the killer waves, Bukit Peninsula is also known for its Balinese cuisine and a slice of paradise, but on the quieter site than the rest of Bali.

Whilst on the Bukit Peninsula, you can visit the beautiful Pura Luhur Uluwatu temple, surf or swim at the legendary the Padang Padang beach, or enjoy an incredible sunset or clifftop dinner.

?guided

Address: Bukit Peninsula, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia

Perched on the top of a 70-metre high clifftop that projects into the sea, this temple one of the six Sad Kahyangan Temples; the main spiritual pillars of Bali Island.

Uluwatu is a Hindu sea temple, set on a rock that, in folklore, is said to be part of the water goddess of Bali, Dewi Danu’s petrified barque. The temple is in a unique location; visitors to the temple have to take a long stone stairway to reach it. The temple heads east, unlike other Balinese temples which face west or south to create balance and harmony with the island.

Beware of the monkeys along the path here, who leap onto unsuspecting tourists to steal their belongings. To prevent this from happening it is advised you keep all things hidden and do not take food to the area.

?guided

Address: Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia

Where it all began in Bali; Kuta is renowned for its long sandy beach, great surf, nightlife and shopping. All day and night, Kuta buzzes with travellers, holidaymakers and honeymooners as it has everything from resorts to hostels.

You’ll have free time to explore the area of Kuta. You may want to take a stroll along the beach and enjoy the breeze from the ocean. There are also many restaurants and bars where you can sample local and western food and drink.

Address: Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia

From: Bali
To: Ngurah Rai International Airport