The Prambanan Temple

The Prambanan Temple

Our plane finally touched down on the Adisucipto International Airport. It had been hovering in the sky for almost half an hour before being given the clearance to land. It was a small airport and we had to wait a while before clearing the custom.

Young Students

Our driver Yanto was waiting for us at the Arrival gate. I identified him by the big board he was holding with my name "Paulo" prominently written on it. Yanto spoke in halted English but luckily I was able to comprehend most of the things he said. We spotted many adorable young local students at the airport while waiting for Yanto to fetch his car. I could not resist snapping photos of these big eyes and shy looking kids.

The Prambanan Complex

Inside his six seater car, Yanto asked if we would like to change our plan and visit the Prambanan Temple first. My original plan was to head straight down to Borobudur Temple. After talking to his boss Ukhi on the mobile phone and understood from him that the Prambanan Temple was only half an hour from the airport, I agreed to the change of plan.

The Prambanan Temple Compound is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It consists of Prambanan, Sewu, Lumbung, Bubrah and Asu. Except Asu, the rest are situated in the complex. Prambanan Temple is it's star attraction followed by Sewu Temple. Lumbung, Bubrah and Asu are still in ruins and have nothing much to offer.

Signs at Prambanan

The Prambanan Temple was dedicated to Lord Shiva, a Hindu god. There were actually 240 temples in the beginning but nearly all were destroyed in a massive earthquake. Only six of the main temples were fully restored and the rest are still work in progress. One could only imagine how massive the temple complex was during it's heyday. For extensive info on Prambanan Temple, please refer to this site.

The Imposing Shrines

We paid the foreigner entrance fee (adult: IDR 207 000) and went into the temple ground. Not surprising, we went straight to the Prambanan Temple first. Despite seeing the temple umpteen times in the internet, I was still beheld of the monstrous size of these ancient constructions. To say that we looked like ants when compared to the temples was no mere exaggeration. The tallest and biggest temple in the center was obviously dedicated to Lord Shiva the Creator. The two temples flanking it were dedicated to Brahma the Keeper and Vishnu the Destroyer. These three main shrines formed the "Trimurti" (three forms). The three other smaller temples were dedicated to the "Vahana"(vehicle) of the gods-Nandi (Shiva's bull), Hamsa (Brahma's swan) and Garuda (Vishnu's eagle). All were dwarfed by the presence of Shiva's 47 meter tall buidling.

The Shiva Temple towered above the rest

The design of the temples shared these similarities. They were divided into three realms. The lowest realms-Bhurloka depicted mere mortals who were still tempted by earthly desires and lusts. The outer courtyard and base of the temples represented this most unholy realm. The middle realm-Bhuvarloka represented those who had seen the light of truth, resided at the middle courtyard and the body of the temple. The holiest realm-Svarloka was for only for the gods and resided at the roof and top of the temples. The architecture reminded me of the the Angkor temples in Siem Reap. They were designed to be Meru-the holy mountain of the Gods.

Svalorka

Top View of the Complex

Guardian of the Temple

Entrance to the Gallery

View from another angle

The temples are adorned with life like panels of bas-reliefs narrating the stories of Hindu epic. They could be attained by climbing a set of steep steps to the gallery behind the balustrades walls. It would also lead you to a dark chamber which housed a statue of the god it symbolized. One would need to start from the east entrance and walked clockwise along the gallery to follow the sequence of the narration. Sadly, just like what I have witnessed at temples of Siem Reap, many of the statues' heads were missing. They were being stolen which can fetch high price from private collectors.

Bas-Reliefs#1

Bas-Reliefs#2

Bas-Reliefs#3

Bas-Reliefs#4

Bas-Reliefs#5

Bas-Reliefs#6

Statue of Shiva

We spent a couple of hours at the Prambanan Temple before proceeding to Sewu Temple. Along the way, we passed by Lumbung and Bubrah. As mentioned before, they were still in the state of ruins. Sewu temple was in a much better state and we could see the familiar guardian statues guarding the front gate of the temple. Due to time constraint, we did not explore much of this site. On our way back to the front entrance, we saw a deer park in the vicinity.

Sewu Temple

Deer Park

Family Photo at Prambanan

Fun Photo

We met Yanto at the carpark after navigating through a complex of souvenirs shops. I told him to bring us for lunch and then proceeded to our main destination-The Borobudur Temple.

Prambanan Complex Map

Tips when visiting Prambanan Temple:

1. It gets very hot in the noon. Come in the early morning or late noon if possible.

2. Bring lots of water. Wear comfortably and bring a hat.

3. A sarong is needed to wear around your waist but not strictly enforce. You can get it free near the ticket booth after paying the entrance fee.

4. The complex is very big. The walk from Prambanan to Sewu is around 1 km and takes around 20 mins walk. There are free tram rides offer which takes you around but the frequency is not very high.

5. Lumbung and Bubrah temples can be taken out of your plan if you are deprived of time.

6. Read up before visiting. Otherwise, the temples are just like big rocks and stones to you and can get very boring. A guide will be helpful.

7. There are licensed photographers in the complex which can take good photographs of you and the temples. Ensure you ask and negotiate the price before engaging their services.

8. Candi means Temple in Yogyakarta and Central Java.

9. I use yogyadriver for my trip around Yogyakarta. Write a comment and drop your email address (I will reply you) at the comment column below to enjoy up to 10% discount off the normal rate if you decide to use their service.

Have you been to Prambanan? Share your tips here!

Related  Posts: Travel to Borobudur Temple , Dawn at Borobudur Temple, Mount Merapi Jeep Lava Tour

Patrol Van at Prambanan

For Your Pinning

"Disney Paint The Night" Nighttime Spectacular at Hong Kong Disneyland

We would always visit a Theme Park (Disneyland or Ocean Park or both) during our almost yearly trip back to Hong Kong to visit my In laws. Charlotte chose Disneyland during our last trip back after she found out "Frozen" was part of the theme there. She would get to meet her favourite characters Princess Elsa and Olaf-the funny snowman.

I found out that Hong Kong Disneyland has added a night parade called Disney Paint The Night on top on the noon's parade-Flights Of Fantasy. We enjoyed the performance thoroughly, having able to see the Disney Characters in a very different light (forgive my pun ;-)) I hope the photos I captured told you more on the fun we had on that night. Enjoy!

Little Pixie and Monsters Inc.

Monsters Inc. and Cars

Little Mermaid

Toy Story

Favorite Disney Characters

Travel Photo Series#4-At Lion's Pavilion-The Peak, Hong Kong

View from Lion's Pavilion at The Peak

 This photo was taken 3 December 2014 at The Peak, Hong Kong. I always love to make a trip here to see the splendor of Hong Kong. Instead of paying a fee to see the view from the Peak Tower, this is a free spot to capture the stunning scenery. Best time to be at the Lion's Pavilion is around evening time when the day transits to night.

Related Posts: Hong Kong-Pearl of the Orient, Tai O-The Fishing Village, Hong Kong, Cheung Chau Trip (Part 1), Cheung Chau Trip (Part 2)

Travel Photos Series#3-At Pura Tirta Empul-Bali, Indonesia

Pura Trita Empul

This photo was taken on 23 March 2013 during my trip to Bali, Indonesia. The locals believe that taking a dip at the holy pool of Pura Tirta Empul will help one get rid of bad fortune and diseases. We saw many foreigners followed what the locals did. We did not enter the pool but were enticed by the wonderful sights in this Water Temple.

Related Posts: We Love Bali!

Cheung Chau Trip (Part 2)

Cheung Chau Sunset View

urning the corner after the last seafood restaurant, we saw the famous Pak Tai temple which was built in 1783. A set of short steps led up to the temple. Just right in front of the temple was a big soccer pitch. This is where the annual Bun Festival is held. During the celebrations there were street processions, theatrical performance and of course the not to be missed Bun Scrambling competition. Competitors climbed up towers made of buns (14 meters in height) and competed to collect the most number of buns in a determined time.

Pak Tai Temple

We wasted no time to explore the Pak Tai temple. It was not a big temple with a main hall flanked by two side chambers. I have visited many Chinese temples before and  found the Pak Tai temple was not a lot of difference from the rest. But the temple was filled with historic and cultural values and I deemed it was a must to visit to immerse in it's atmosphere.

We tried more street foods after the temples' visit. If you have the chance to be here, remember to try the Giant Curry Fish Balls (my favourite..yummy), Fried Fish Balls and Squid Balls, Fried Mango Roll and Fried Ice Cream. Of course, the list did not end here but I just mentioned on those that we have savoured. 

Yummy Street Foods

Being fans of sunset view, Alison and I would not want the miss the one at Cheung Chau. After taking a rest at the hotel, we set off to the harbour at around 5 pm to capture the beautiful moment. We were just in time at the harbour to see the sun making it's descend into the horizon. The sea, fishing boats and mountains provided a perfect backdrop as the orange glow emitted by the sun embraced the sky. It was always a wonderful feeling to enjoy this magic moment with your loved ones.

Sunset at Cheung Chau

We took our dinner at one of the strongly recommended seafood restaurants-New Baccarat Restaurant (新金湖海鮮酒家). It was located at the end of  Pak She Praya Street, the last restaurant right before the Pak Tai temple. I would say the seafood was the not the best I have tasted. But for a net price below SGD$50 for the dinner set which included a steamed fish, fried mantis prawns, scallops, vegetables and a bowl of soup, it was relatively cheap compared to those one would find in the main land. Thumb up for the values for money for this long standing restaurant.

Seafood Dinner

We woke up early next morning to catch the sunrise and spending family bonding time at the Tung Wan beach. The beach was almost empty apart from some old folks who were having their early morning dip. I have full admiration for them as not many could tolerate the cold temperature, let alone swim in the chilling water.

Family Bonding

We took time to visit the Cheung Chau market. Needless to say, the seafood on sales were fresh and in abundance.

Wet Market

I would like to specially mention this eatery-Hometown Teahouse(故鄉茶寮), which is famous for it's sushi and red bean pastries. It is operated by an Japanese couple. We were lucky that the eatery was just right below our hotel. Perhaps it was still early hours, there was no queue in sight. Although already filled with street foods, I gobbled down three red bean pastries. No prize for guessing how delicious they were.

Hometown Teahouse

We left Cheung Chau in the noon.  If you visit Hong Kong, at least plan for a day trip to this island. Enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere and savour the good foods on offer at good value. Remember to capture the sunset view over the harbour while tasting wines and seafood at one of the restaurants. Just like us, you will not regret to visit Cheung Chau island.

Related Posts: Cheung Chau Trip (Part 1)
 

Travel Photos Series#2-At Togo Shrine-Tokyo, Japan

Togo Shrine

This photo was taken on 1 June 2014 during my family trip to Harajuku in Tokyo, Japan. We stumbled upon this serene and beautiful shrine by chance while we were exploring Takeshita-dori. It was dedicated to Gensui, The Marquis Togo Heihachiro. Compared to the nearby Meiji Jingu Shrine, the Togo Shrine was relatively much less crowded. We even managed to witness a wedding procession here.

Related Posts: The Tokyo Trip

Travel Photos Series#1-Fo Guang Shan, Taiwan

Thanks to everybody, I realize that my photos are generally liked and welcomed by a lot of my visitors and followers. I decide to start this "Travel Photos Series" which will help display my travel photos as well as a short description for each of the photos. Hope everybody loves this new initiative and all feedback are welcomed.

Fo Guan Shan's Buddha Memorial Center

This photo was taken on 30 Nov 2013 during our visit to Fo Guang Shan(佛光山) at Kaohsiung, Taiwan. The Buddha Memorial Center was actually quite a new addition to the existing Fo Guang Shan's premise. I was really impressed by the new compound set up. A tiled pathway led to a grand golden Buddha statue flanked by two rows of symmetrically built pagodas. Definitely a photo opportunity I would not want to miss.

Related Posts: Family Bonding Tour at Taiwan Famosa, Taiwan Travel Tips

Day Trip at Kamakura (Part 4)-The Inamuragasaki Beach

The Inamuragasaki Beach

I put Inamuragasaki Beach in my Kamakura trip for one main reason. It was to capture the beautiful view of Mount Fuji from the Inamuragasaki Park. The day was cloudy when we visited Kamakura and I felt that the chance of seeing the elusive sacred mountain of Japan was pretty low. Nevertheless, we decided to continue with our plan since we have already came so far.

We walked back to the Hase station from the Kotokuin temple and took the Enoden to the Inamuragasaki station which was only two stops away. Not many people alighted at the station when we arrived. In fact, Inamuragasaki gave me a feeling that it was a very slow paced town. Perhaps we did not come at the peak season.

Street Photo by the beach

We heard and followed the sound of the wave which indicated we were not very far from the sea. True enough, after navigating a few streets, the sea was right before us. The first thing that I looked was for the sight of Mount Fuji. It was supposed to situate between Enoshima and the main land. The sight was supposedly breathtaking during a clear day with blue sky and during sunset. But it was not to be. Mount Fuji was nowhere in sight. Though already setting the expectation of not being able to see the Unesco Heritage Sight for this visit, I still could not hide my disappointment.

Black Kite

With the "since we are already here" mentality, we walked towards Inamuragasaki Park- a place where many would gather on a good day to enjoy the beautiful sight of the sacred mountain. Along the way, we could see many Black Kites flying around. I spotted their presence at the Hase-dera temple too. From the internet, I was warned not to eat anything under their razor sharp eyes and claws or risked injuries when they swooped down to rob the food. 

Tsunami Evacuation Route

I would say that the beach was not very impressive. Perhaps I have higher expectation of beaches in Japan than those in Singapore :-P. The signage for the warning of Tsunami have me worried a bit. They noted down the procedure of spotting and evacuating from a Tsunami.I wondered how would I react when there was a Tsunami attack. It was very difficult to imagine what was the mindset of the people residing near the sea here with the genuine potential Tsunami threat everyday.

View from Inamuragasaki Park

The Inamuragasaki Park was a place to admire and capture beautiful photographs of Mount Fuji. It was hidden from sight but we still chose to rest on the many benches around to enjoy the sea breeze. I could only use my imagination how the scene would look like on a good day. I looked into the distance, hoping for the faintest of hope that the sky would suddenly clear up a bit for me to catch a glimpse of the sacred mountain.

Self Photo at Inamuragasaki Park

Plaque indicating Mount Fuji Scenic View Spot

Though not able to accomplish the objective of coming here, I was still glad I have made it to this place. Mount Fuji is well-known for it's shyness. It always take a a mix of luck and timing to witness it's glamor. Perhaps I will have better fortune next time :-) This would be our last stop at Kamakura. My family and I have enjoyed every bit of our time here. Thank you, Kamakura! Good bye, Kamakura!

Mount Fuji missing between Enoshima and Main Land