Visiting historical sites in Central Java can be quite a challenge, with the two principal attractions Borobudur and Prambanan separated by about 50 kilometers, but the good news is that one can buy a composite ticket for both from either one of these locations, though it is highly recommended that Borobudur be finished with first, if not for anything else but the deeply spiritual vibes emanating from the former.
Prambanan, by comparison, is spread out over a larger expanse, with the other smaller temples of the entire complex sited in a kind of semicircle in what is probably a very elaborate and purposeful arrangement as is evidenced from the information plaques at the venue, but generally appears like an aimless walk or bicycle ride in the greens for the untutored 'tourist'.
Built by the king Sailendra in the eighth century CE, it commands the same open-mouthed awe as its more arcane cousin Borobudur, with its distinctive black stone carved complexes dominating both the landscape and the skyline in this relatively flat expanse of land, and providing the perfect backdrop for the very enthralling 'Ramayana' ballet being performed on the premises on designated days in the evenings. I did a rather hurried tour on foot across the entire length and width under a scorching sun albeit by the large shade trees during most of it, making the necessary pit stops at the Candi (Temple) Lumbung, Brubah and Sewu, the last one almost as big as the main temple.
Similar to Angkor Wat in Cambodia, the ancient temple complexes in Indonesia hark back to the time when Buddhism was making a foray into South East Asia, before being overtaken by the currently dominant religion Islam in many of the countries here, but the structures have been lovingly preserved in consonance with the traditions of the native Buddhist and at places Hindu communities too, and now serve as extremely important attractions for not only the casual traveler but also pilgrims, and students and scholars of history, archeology and anthropology. To cater to all of these categories, numerous food and drinks stalls, souvenir shops and photo booths can be found at and around the main entrance and exit points.
Throughout the long ride from Borobudur to Prambanan, the malevolent volcano Mount Merapi keeps vigil over the past, present and future of this beautiful country and her people. The countryside continues to fascinate with paddy fields and palm groves, and local settlements with the villagers engaged in tending to their small plots of farmland.
Beggars are commonly seen at traffic signals and street junctions, but like the exquisite art created by local individuals and communities, those asking for alms are also aesthetically turned out in easily recognizable costumes modeled from Disney characters such as Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck- their identities hidden and voices muted- a true example of life imitating art."
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