TOUR AROUND YOGYAKARTA

MERAPI
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To the North East of Yogyakarta is the famous Merapi, one of Indonesia's most active volcanoes. safety allowing, the energetic may wish to try the guided night climb from Kaliurang resort. It takes a few hours, and arriving in the early hours will offer views of the sunrise over the smoking caldera. The Volcano Observation post in Jrakah, near Selo, is the best place to observe the spewing beast from a safe distance. Going beyond this point is often not an option for safety reasons. Occasionally the volcano belches a large cloud of super-hot sulphurous gas which literally roasts villages.

TEMPLES AT PRAMBANAN
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Situated in Klaten, on the road between Yogyakarta and Solo, these Hindu temples were built by the Sanjaya Dynasty in the 9th century. There are there temples, representing the Hindu trinity of Brahmana, Vishnu and Shiva. Particularly interesting are the Ramayana performances which take place on full moon from May to October.

BOROBUDUR TEMPLE
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Built during the 9th century by the rulers of the Syailendra dynasty, this massive stupa is the largest Buddhist monument in the world. It was left to ruin as the Dynasty fell apart, and only recognised as a global treasure by Stamford Raffles in 1814. It has subsequently been restored to its former glory - its 10 exquisitely carved levels reaching 42 m in height. Borobudur is 40 km North West of Yogyakarta, near Mungkid iin the Magelang regency. Two Hindu temples - Candi Mendut and Candi Pawon - are also conveniently on route from Yogyakarta to Borobudur.

MUSEUM OF INDONESIAN FINE ARTS
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Yogyakarta is well-known as one of Indonesia's art centres, and within an hour's drive from city lies the impressive Haji Widayat Museum, with over 3,000m2 of space devoted to the subject. It is located at Sawitan, in the town of Mungkid just a few km ffrom Borobudur. The Museum opens daily (not Monday) from 9.00 am - 4.00 pm.