Cover View of Mount Bromo at the sunrise in Java, Indonesia (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre/ Tatler Hong Kong)
View of Mount Bromo at the sunrise in Java, Indonesia (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre/ Tatler Hong Kong)
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City breaks can be wonderful, but there’s a certain magic to be found in discovering places untouched by mass tourism. Indonesia’s Java—a land of ancient temples, volcanic peaks and verdant waterfalls—is one such often-overlooked gem
In our fast-paced world, we’re often drawn to the lure of bustling cities and popular destinations, with their promises of exquisite restaurants, designer boutiques and luxurious stays. While these experiences can be exhilarating, there’s a certain magic to be found in discovering places untouched by the relentless tide of mass tourism. Java, Indonesia, is one such forgotten gem. A land of ancient temples, volcanic peaks, and verdant waterfalls, Java whispers tales of a bygone era, a time when the world moved at a gentler pace. Here, in these havens of tranquillity, we find a profound connection to the earth’s timeless beauty. It’s a reminder that true luxury lies not in fleeting pleasures, but in the moments of quiet contemplation, in the deep appreciation for the wonders that surround us.
Summer may be over, but the quest for extraordinary experiences continues.Tatler presents an exclusive journey to Java, revealing the hidden beauty of its cascading waterfalls, majestic volcanoes and the mystical temples of Yogyakarta.
Also read: The best luxury resorts in Asia for a tranquil and tropical escape
Yogyakarta
Above Taman Sari, the former royal garden of the Yogyakarta Sultanate (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre/ Tatler Hong Kong)
Above Street art on the streets of Yogyakarta (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre/ Tatler Hong Kong)
Taman Sari, the former royal garden of the Yogyakarta Sultanate (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre/ Tatler Hong Kong)
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While Jakarta and Surabaya are popular starting points for Indonesian trips, Yogyakarta offers a compelling alternative. Located in central Java, this city is a significant cultural centre, blending ancient history with modern life. Despite its relatively small size, Yogyakarta boasts many interesting sites. For a unique experience, rent a scooter and explore its streets, where you’ll find old houses, often decorated with diverse street art. In the city centre, Taman Sari, the former royal garden of the Yogyakarta Sultanate, is a must-visit.
Borobudur
Above A path that leads to the temple of Borobudur, the largest Buddhist temple in the world (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre/ Tatler Hong Kong)
Above The bell-shaped stupas of Borobudur (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre/ Tatler Hong Kong)
A path that leads to the temple of Borobudur, the largest Buddhist temple in the world (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre/ Tatler Hong Kong)
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Prepare to be awestruck by the world’s largest Buddhist monument: Borobudur. Located just an hour’s drive from Yogyakarta, Borobudur is a Unesco World Heritage site, recognised for its universal value and cultural significance.
If you’re in the area, you mustn't miss this stunning temple, where you’ll encounter 504 Buddha statues and intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology. Climbing the steep stairs to the eighth level, you’ll discover the temple’s unique architecture, characterised by its stupas that resemble gigantic bells.
Borobudur represents the union of the lower and the higher, symbolising the connection between heaven and earth.
Prambanan
Above View from the back of the Prambanan, a masterpiece of stone carving (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre)
View from the back of the Prambanan, a masterpiece of stone carving (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre)
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A short 40-minute journey from Yogyakarta lies the majestic Prambanan Temple, a stunning example of Hindu architecture. While geographically close, Prambanan offers a striking contrast to its Buddhist counterpart, Borobudur. Its design echoes the grandeur of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia, making it one of the world’s most beautiful temples.
For an unforgettable experience, visit during sunset and attend the Ramayana Prambanan show—a captivating performance blending Hindu epics with Javanese culture. The show’s unique night-time setting against the temple backdrop is truly breathtaking.
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Jodipan, Malang
Above Jodipan, a former slum in the city of Malang, is also known as the Rainbow Village (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre)
Jodipan, a former slum in the city of Malang, is also known as the Rainbow Village (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre)
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Before you set off on your volcanic adventure from Malang, check out Jodipan, or Rainbow Village. Every house in Jodipan is painted in a different colour, often with some lovely street art on the walls. A small stream runs through the village, adding to its charm.
Just a few years ago, this area was facing demolition. Luckily, a group of students had the idea to revitalise the neighbourhood with vibrant artwork, with the hope to attract visitors. In June 2016, the Indonesian Air Force—armed with paints—were tasked with turning this vision into a reality, transforming the village into a kaleidoscope of colour. Jodipan quickly became a must-see destination for both international tourists and Indonesian locals.
Tumpak Sewu Waterfalls
Above Tumpak Sewu Waterfalls (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre/ Tatler Hong Kong)
Above Indonesian children playing on the road leading to Tumpak Sewu Waterfalls (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre/ Tatler Hong Kong)
Tumpak Sewu Waterfalls (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre/ Tatler Hong Kong)
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In the heart of Java, where rice paddies meet banana groves, lies Tumpak Sewu—a truly stunning waterfall. The name, which means ‘a thousand waterfalls’, captures the scene perfectly: a colossal cascade breaks into a myriad of streams, crashing through vibrant green foliage before converging in a stunning circular basin.
Witness its grandeur from select viewpoints or, for the truly intrepid, trek to the base of the waterfall and back to the top to see it from all angles.
Mount Bromo
Above View of Mount Bromo at sunrise (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre/ Tatler Hong Kong)
Above A sea of sand at the base Mount Bromo (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre/ Tatler Hong Kong)
View of Mount Bromo at sunrise (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre/ Tatler Hong Kong)
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This is where the real adventure happens. No trip to Java is complete without experiencing the majesty of Mount Bromo. This legendary volcano may not be the highest, but it commands attention with its stunning location. Spend the afternoon driving across the otherworldly sea of sand before climbing the steps to the crater rim.
The view is awe-inspiring—a vast panorama of volcanic landscape that will make you feel utterly insignificant. Wake up early the next day to witness a breathtaking sunrise that paints the sky in vibrant shades of orange, pink and green.
Ijen Crater
Above Smoke from a sulphur spring next to the Ijen crater lake, the most acidic lake in the world (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre/ Tatler Hong Kong)
Smoke from a sulphur spring next to the Ijen crater lake, the most acidic lake in the world (Photo: courtesy of Alix Lefebvre/ Tatler Hong Kong)
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Mount Ijen is a challenging but rewarding hike. Despite its striking turquoise colour, it holds the title of the world’s most acidic lake—and its unique environment is a Unesco World Biosphere Reserve. The real spectacle lies in Ijen’s blue flames, a fiery phenomenon created by the crater’s sulphurous gases.
The arduous night hike, beginning at 3 am, ends with an unforgettable sunrise: a sea of clouds envelops the volcano, revealing only the peaks of its neighbours in a stunning display. While rewarding, the popularity of Ijen makes it a crowded and challenging climb, especially for less experienced hikers.
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Alix Lefebvre was the Assistant Manager of VIP Relations & Styling Coordinator at Tatler Hong Kong. Hailing from France, she has a wealth of experience in fashion from across Europe and Asia. When she’s not busy mingling at events, you’ll find her soaking up the energetic atmosphere of Hong Kong or planning her next trip.
