Candi Sambisari

Candi Sambisari is a unique Hindu temple in Kalasan, Sleman, Yogyakarta. It was built in the 9th century during the Ancient Mataram Kingdom and was hidden about 6.5 meters underground for centuries, buried by volcanic ash from Mount Merapi. A farmer accidentally found it in 1966. Today, Sambisari is one of Yogyakarta’s most interesting archaeological sites, offering visitors a glimpse into Java’s ancient Hindu culture and architecture.

Entrance Fee

The entrance fee is about IDR 5,000 per person. There are extra parking fees for vehicles. Candi Sambisari is in Purwomartani Village, Kalasan District, Sleman Regency. It is about 20 minutes from Yogyakarta city center and 10 minutes from Adisutjipto International Airport, and usually open every day from 8 AM to 4 PM. It is close to other attractions like Prambanan Temple, Ratu Boko, and Plaosan Temple, so you can easily visit several sites in one trip.

What to See

The main temple stands in the center of a sunken courtyard, with smaller shrines around it. Although it is very old, most of the temple remains in good condition, allowing visitors to appreciate the detailed work of the Ancient Mataram builders.

Inside the main temple, you will find statues and carvings of Hindu deities like Durga, Ganesha, and Agastya, which are common in Shiva temples. The temple is also surrounded by a wall that resembles a moat, setting it apart from most other temples in Central Java.

History

Candi Sambisari was likely built in the 9th century during the Ancient Mataram Kingdom and dedicated to Lord Shiva, making it a Hindu temple rather than a Buddhist one. It stayed hidden underground for centuries until a local farmer found it while working in a rice field in 1966.

After years of excavation and restoration, Sambisari is now an important cultural site and helps us learn about the Ancient Mataram civilization. Its underground location and well-kept buildings make it one of Yogyakarta’s most unique temples.