sukuh temple the temple that has architecture like Mayan pyramid

Amazing Sukuh Cetho Temples Tour from Yogyakarta

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Sukuh Cetho Temples Tour – A Journey to Java’s Hidden Mysteries

Escape the well-worn paths of Borobudur and Prambanan and embark on a fascinating journey to the slopes of Mount Lawu, where the final mysteries of the ancient Hindu-Javanese kingdoms lie waiting. This one-day private tour from Yogyakarta takes you to the serene and stunningly unique Sukuh and Cetho Temples, offering an unforgettable blend of historical intrigue, breathtaking mountain scenery, and peaceful cultural discovery.

Tour Highlights

This destination is situated 23 hours away from Yogyakarta City, positioned on the slope of Mt. Lawu, at the boundary of Central Java and East Java provinces. Located at Karanganyar Regency.

  • Cool Mountain Climate: Be prepared for a refreshing change in temperature due to the high altitude. A light jacket is recommended.
  • Private Transport Comfort: Relax in a private, air-conditioned car with a professional driver, ensuring a smooth and safe journey up and down the mountain roads.
  • Full-Day Commitment: This tour involves significant driving time (approximately 3-4 hours each way), making it a comprehensive, rewarding full-day experience.

Why Sukuh Cetho One Day tour?

This experience is designed for history lovers, culture seekers, and travelers looking to find the authentic and unique side of Java away from the main tourist crowds.

  • The Scenic Drive: The journey itself is a highlight. Enjoy a beautiful, winding drive up Mount Lawu, passing through vast green tea estates. The cool air and stunning vistas offer a refreshing break from the heat of the city.
  • Architectural Enigma: Discover the unusual structure of Sukuh Temple, a stepped pyramid bearing a striking resemblance to ancient Mayan or Aztec temples. This 15th-century relic features distinctive, sometimes explicit, fertility carvings and reliefs that offer rare insight into the spiritual beliefs and practices of the time.
  • The Temple Above the Clouds: Ascend to Cetho Temple, a beautifully restored Hindu complex built on 13 terraces high on the mountain slope. The temple’s altitude provides a mystical, cool atmosphere and delivers magnificent panoramic views over the surrounding valleys and lush tea plantations.
  • A Peaceful Retreat: Unlike the popular large temples, Sukuh and Cetho provide a quiet, contemplative experience. You’ll have the space and time to truly absorb the ancient ambiance and appreciate the historical significance without the rush.

What you can expect ?

Your Journey to the Hidden Temples of Lawu, Step away from the crowds and explore two of Java’s most mysterious and architecturally unique temples, nestled high on the slopes of Mount Lawu.

  • Seamless Logistics: Benefit from a comfortable, private, air-conditioned vehicle for the full-day journey from Yogyakarta, handling all the long-distance driving and mountain roads for a stress-free trip.Step away from the crowds and explore two of Java’s most mysterious and architecturally unique temples, nestled high on the slopes of Mount Lawu.
  • Architectural Intrigue: Discover the pyramidal structure of Sukuh Temple, often compared to Mayan or Aztec temples, and the graceful, terraced design of Cetho Temple. These sites offer a fascinating look at the final era of Hindu-Javanese culture.
  • Stunning Mountain Scenery: Enjoy a beautiful, winding drive up the slopes of Mount Lawu. The temples are situated amid lush tea plantations, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and a refreshing, cool climate.
  • A Peaceful Escape: Unlike the highly visited Borobudur and Prambanan, these temples offer a quiet, contemplative atmosphere, allowing for a more personal and reflective exploration of ancient history.
  • Cultural Context: Learn about the unique syncretism of Hindu, Buddhist, and ancient Javanese animist beliefs that define the iconography and reliefs found at both sites.

Price list

What the Price of Sukuh Cetho Temples One Day Tour starting from Yogyakarta cost?

MembersPrice Per Person
01USD 180
02USD 100
03USD 90
04USD 80
05+USD 70
Note:
Prices may fluctuate based on the length of the tour and the number of participants involved. For pricing details regarding this tour, we kindly ask you to contact us.

Tour Itinerary

  • 07.00 – leave Jogjakarta Drive in the morning to Surakarta, travel on through lovely country side to discover the mystery of the 14th century Sukuh temple a small Hindu temple that has pyramids architecture similar with Aztec pyramid on the south of America
  • 12.00 – Next, we go on up scenic, passing tea plantation at winding Mountain road to another 14th century Hindu temple named Cetho a temple that has the reliefs and statues similar with Sumerian statues, enjoy the beauty of country side its surroundings.
  • 15.00 – Drive back to Jogjakarta

What ‘s included

  • Transport (van driver gasoline parking fees)
  • Entrances tickets
  • Tour guide English speaking

What ‘s not included

  • Meal (Lunch)
  • All Personal Expenses
  • Additional Tour and service that not mentioned in above

How to book

To assist you with Sukuh Cetho Temples One Day Tour, please let we know information about

  • Date period your tour
  • Start Point
  • Total Participant
  • Further information and book this tour please contact us

FAQ

FAQ – Sukuh & Cetho Temples One‑Day Tour from Jogjakarta

  1. What is the Sukuh & Cetho Temples One‑Day Tour?
    It is a private day trip from Yogyakarta to Karanganyar Regency, visiting two unique 14th‑century Hindu temples on the slopes of Mount Lawu.
  2. How long does the tour last?
    The tour runs for about 8–10 hours, departing Yogyakarta around 07:00 AM and returning in the late afternoon.
  3. Where are Sukuh and Cetho Temples located?
    Both temples are situated in Karanganyar Regency, Central Java, near the border with East Java, surrounded by scenic tea plantations and mountain landscapes.
  4. What makes Sukuh Temple special?
    Sukuh Temple is known for its pyramid‑like architecture resembling Aztec pyramids and erotic reliefs symbolizing fertility rituals.
  5. What makes Cetho Temple unique?
    Cetho Temple features terraced architecture, Sumerian‑style statues, and mystical carvings, offering panoramic views of the countryside.
  6. Is the tour suitable for history lovers?
    Yes, this tour is ideal for travelers interested in ancient Javanese history, Hindu heritage, and unique temple architecture.
  7. What is included in the tour package?
    The package includes private transport (van, driver, fuel, parking fees), entrance tickets, and an English‑speaking guide.
  8. What is excluded from the package?
    Meals, personal expenses, and gratuities are not included. Guests may request a stop at a local restaurant for lunch.
  9. How do I book the tour?
    Bookings can be made via the Yogya Tours website, email, or WhatsApp, with confirmation provided after payment.
  10. Why choose this tour package?
    This itinerary combines two ancient temples in one day, offering a rare chance to explore unique architecture, mystical carvings, and mountain scenery in a private guided format.

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