Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta (deceptively pronounced Jog-yah-kar-ta) is a city proudly distinct and different from its Javanese brothers. Invariably for the first-time visitor it’s cultural, educational and heritage-related pursuits that take centre stage here, and most Yogyakarta tour guides will offer an itinerary rich with historical ‘must sees’, artistic hotspots and quirky crafts museums to boot. Of these the central Kraton (old town) exhibits some of the most valuable treasures owned by Yogya’s Sultan ruler. Visitors can explore one of the most traditional and well-preserved palatial complexes on all of Java, where wide courtyards and elaborately adorned façades dominate from beginning to end. Also worth exploring are the area’s ancient Javanese temples, the largest being the beautiful Prambanan temple complex set against the rural backdrop of green fields and villages. And while the villages constitute a part of the eco tours popular in Yogya, there are yet more avenues of getting close to nature by climbing up the active Mt Merapi volcano or visiting the plethora of beaches that lie within easy reach of the city. Furthermore, in line with the city’s creative reputation there’s plenty of unique culinary creations to sample in Yogya, and visitors should not leave without tasting the fruity gudeg curry or the super-hot krecek beef.