Yogyakarta : Selogriyo Temple And Kedung Kayang Waterfall

Imagine stepping off the beaten path to discover a quiet Hindu temple amid lush rice terraces with Mount Sumbing looming in the background, then cooling off beneath a beautiful waterfall with Mount Merapi watching over you. That’s exactly what this full-day tour offers. It’s a chance to get away from crowds and see a side of Java that’s often overlooked by travelers flocking to Borobudur and Prambanan. If you’re craving a mix of nature, culture, and tranquility, this trip deserves a spot on your itinerary.

What we love about this experience is how it combines spectacular scenery with genuine local culture. The walk through rice fields feels like an authentic journey back in time—an immersive experience of rural Java. Plus, the opportunity to see Java’s most remote Hindu temple offers a quiet, contemplative atmosphere that’s hard to find at the more tourist-heavy sites. A minor consideration is the walking time; the 45-minute easy trek might be tiring for some, but it’s worth it for the views.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day out, with a focus on authentic rural life and natural beauty. If you’re curious about Hindu heritage, love mountain vistas, and enjoy discovering lesser-known spots, this experience will suit you well. It’s also a great option for those who prefer small-group guided tours, ensuring a more personalized and insightful experience.

Key Points

• Authentic rural experience: Walk through rice terraces on your way to a remoter Hindu temple.
• Stunning mountain scenery: Enjoy views of Mount Sumbing and Mount Merapi from various points.
• Cultural discovery: Visit the least visited Hindu temple site in Java, away from crowds.
• Natural beauty: Cool off at Kedung Kayang Waterfall, with a backdrop of Mount Merapi.
• Comfort and value: All transportation, entry tickets, and water included for just $41.
• Small-group intimacy: Limited to 10 participants for a more personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Starting Point — Yogyakarta

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel in Yogyakarta, ideally early in the day. You’ll travel in a comfortable vehicle driven by an experienced guide who will be your narrator and navigator. The journey itself is part of the charm, as you leave the city behind and watch the landscape change from urban to rural.

Candi Selogriyo — The Hidden Hindu Temple

The highlight of the day is the visit to Candi Selogriyo, a temple site less visited than Borobudur but no less fascinating. Set in a village in the valley of Mount Sumbing, the temple is flanked by three hills, creating a stunning terraced landscape. You’ll spend about 2.5 hours here, which includes a guided tour, plenty of photo stops, and free time to soak in the peaceful environment.

The walk to the temple takes around 45 minutes on an easy trail — expect it to be a gentle trek through rice fields, with views that could easily make you forget you’re in Java. Reviewers consistently mention the beauty of the rice terraces and the tranquility of the site, with one noting, “The scenery on the way there is beautiful, and the temple itself feels like a secret find.”

Kedung Kayang Waterfall — Refreshing Nature

Next, you’ll hop into the vehicle for a 40-minute drive to Kedung Kayang Waterfall. Here, you’ll enjoy 1.5 hours of free time and a guided exploration of this scenic spot. The waterfall offers a wonderful cooling break and stunning views of Mount Merapi in the distance. Visitors often comment on how refreshing and picturesque the waterfall is, with the lush greenery surrounding it making for perfect photos.

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Return to Yogyakarta

After a leisurely visit, you’ll head back to Yogyakarta, a drive that takes about 1.30 hours. Along the way, your guide may offer insights into local life, the landscape, and the volcanoes that shape the region. Most travelers find the drive a good chance to relax and chat about the day’s highlights, and many reviews praise the friendly driver and the well-coordinated logistics.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For just $41 per person, this tour packs in a lot of memorable experiences. The inclusion of hotel pickup, transportation, park fees, entry tickets, and bottled water means you won’t be surprised by extra costs. The small group size ensures that you get personalized attention and the chance to ask questions, making it a more meaningful experience than large bus tours.

The combination of cultural discovery and natural beauty is especially appealing if you’re looking for a varied, authentic day out. Unlike the crowded temples of Borobudur, Selogriyo remains a peaceful, almost secret sanctuary, perfect for those who want to step off the beaten track.

Practical Tips for the Day

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the trail to Selogriyo is easy but still requires some light trekking.
• Bring a hat and sunscreen — the exposure to the sun on the rice terraces can be strong.
• Camera or smartphone — the views are stunning, especially the rice terraces and mountain vistas.
• Rain gear — depending on the season, brief showers can occur.
• Arrival time — check the availability and starting times to plan your day accordingly.

Final Thoughts: Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who want to see a different side of Java — away from the crowds and into the lush, quieter countryside. It’s ideal for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone eager to experience rural Java’s tranquil beauty. If you’re after a relaxed pace and an authentic taste of local life, this tour will fit nicely into your plans.

Travelers seeking spectacular mountain views, serene temple visits, and a refreshing waterfall experience will find this day trip both rewarding and affordable. It’s a perfect way to add depth to your Java adventure, especially if Borobudur and Prambanan are already on your must-see list.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts between 8 and 12 hours, depending on the starting time and pace, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup, transportation, gasoline, parking fees, entry tickets for Selogriyo Temple and Kedung Kayang Waterfall, as well as bottled water for the day.

Are there any additional costs?
Personal expenses, souvenirs, or extra snacks are not included, so budget accordingly if you plan to buy mementos or additional food.

How difficult is the walk to the temple?
The 45-minute walk to Selogriyo is described as an easy path, suitable for most travelers with moderate mobility.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, but keep in mind the walking time and terrain. It’s generally suitable for children over 1 year and for people under 95 years old.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, camera, and perhaps a raincoat, depending on weather conditions.

How big are the groups?
Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility.

Is this tour available in other languages?
Currently, the guide speaks English, but ask the provider if you need assistance or have specific language requirements.

To sum it up, this tour offers an excellent balance of scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and relaxed pace. It’s a perfect fit for travelers who want to experience Java’s lesser-known treasures without the crowds, all at an accessible price point. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat from busy tourist sites, this day trip will leave you with lasting impressions of Java’s tranquil and vibrant landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: