Gedong Songo Temple

Address: Dusun Candi, Bandungan, Semarang Regency, Central Java, Indonesia

Hours: Daily 6:00am-5:00pm

Admission: Rp 10,000-25,000 (approx.)

Gedong Songo is a cluster of small Hindu temple ruins on the slopes of a volcanic highland in Central Java, Indonesia. The complex is traditionally described as containing nine temple groups dating from the early classical period of Javanese Hinduism.

Temples are arranged along a hillside route with short walking connections between groups and offer views across the surrounding highland terraces and volcanic landscape. Stone foundations, carved doorways and small sanctuary chambers are visible at several of the temple sites.

Archaeological and historical study date the temples to the early medieval period of Java; they reflect Hindu religious architecture that was established in the region several centuries ago and later fell into disuse before 20th-century documentation and conservation.

Gedong Songo sits on the slopes of Mount Ungaran near the village of Bandungan in Semarang Regency, Central Java, in a hilly volcanic landscape above the northern Java plain.

• Nine temples: The name refers to nine temple structures; the complex sits on volcanic slopes and is visited for its temple architecture and hilltop views.

What to See#

• Gedong Songo temples: A series of small Hindu temple structures spread across a volcanic hillside, traditionally counted as nine separate temple groups dating to the early classical period of Central Javanese Hinduism.

Gedong Songo is about 18-25 km north of Semarang. From Semarang take the road toward Bandungan (via Jl. Raya Bawen-Bandungan); the turn to Gedong Songo is signposted near Bandungan village. By car the drive is roughly 45-60 minutes depending on traffic and roadworks. There are also local minibuses (angkot) that run to Bandungan from Semarang’s bus terminal; from Bandungan the temple cluster is a short motorbike taxi ride or a steep 20-40 minute walk uphill.

• Arrive early morning to avoid clouds and the tour buses that flock after 9:30am.
• Wear good shoes-the site is on volcanic slopes with loose rock; some temple platforms require uphill walking of 10-25 minutes.
• Bring small Indonesian rupiah cash for the local entrance fee and for the village stalls selling coffee and fried tempeh.