Yvo and utiket

Gedung Songo temples

Semarang, Indonesia

Gedung Songo temples

The nine small Hindu Temples (Gedung Songo means 'nine buildings' in Javanese) are in itself not so impressive, it is the scenery and setting that makes a visit to these temples worthwhile. Gedung Songo is one of the most beautiful sited temple complexes in Java.

They were built in the 8th and 9th century long before Borobudur and Prambanan. They were constructed at about the same time as the temples at Dieng but although they are similar to the temples at Dieng in various ways, it is the stunning view that sets these temples apart.

The temples are located on the top and sides of Gunug Unguran, an old stratovulcanon 30km south of Semarang. Five of the temples are in fairly good condition after a major renovation in the 1980s.

The temples are located in three groups and a 3km long trail goes past these groupings. The last group, after you passed the hot sulphur springs, is the most impressive. At an height of 1000m you get a spectacular view of the surroundings. At the south you can see Gunung Merbabu and behind it Gunung Merapi with it characteristic smoke plume. At the west are Gunung Sumbing and Gunung Sundoro.

The Gedung Songo temples and the Mount Unguran area is a popular weekend destination for those living in Semarang. Especially on Sunday it can get crowded.

Gedung Songo temples



Loading map...

Open in Google Maps

Transport options Gedung Songo temples

The temples are about 6km east from the city of Bandungan, or 30km south of Semarang. From Semarang take a bus heading for Sumawono and have you dropped at the base of the hill. The last 3km up the hill can be done on foot or by ojek.

Ratings for Gedung Songo temples

5.8 / 10

Out a score of ten. Based on 2 ratings

Facilities5

Clean4

Interesting8

Good value6

Rate this

Facilities

Clean

Interesting

Good value

Fasilities

Campground, horse transport service, and some inns are available in this area.

Opening hoursopening hours

The temples are open daily from 06.00 am till 17.00 pm

Ticket fees ticket fee

Entrance is Rp 7,000 for Indonesians but Rp. 25,000 for foreigners. A map and English description are available for free at the ticket counter.

Related places: Temple

Things to do close by Gedung Songo temples

Getting to Semarang

Flying to Semarang

Semarang

Semarang is served by Achmad Yani International Airport. Achmad Yani International Airport is located about 5 km west from Semarang. A taxi into the city from Achmad Yani International Airport would cost IDR 70.000. Read more about Achmad Yani International Airport or look for flights to Semarang.

A train to Semarang

Semarang is also reachable by train. The city has several train stations where long-distance trains stop: station Semarangponcol, station Semarangtawang.

Look for more Trains to Semarang.