Nestled high on a verdant mountainside of  Ungaran gives a breathtaking panorama of ancient Hindu temples. Candi songo comes from Javanese language that means “Nine Temples” even though the name suggests nine temples, this place only has five temples that are currently well-preserved and accessible for the visitors. This place not only offers a glimpse of history, but also an outstanding journey through lush green forests and High cliffs covered with a heavy mist. The cool mountain air, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth, offers a refreshing escape from the hustle of the city.

Important Tips

Before the visitors are going there, there are some important tips that should be prepared if you are planning to go there:

1. Choose the best time
   The best time to visit Gedong Songo is in May-September when the summer season starts, the recommended time for the visitors come is in the morning, it offers the clearest skies for views and comfortable time for walking, if the visitors walk in the morning they will will get the experience of cool air and thick mist.

2. Know the Latest Ticket Prices
   Planning your budget trip based on the latest information. The entrance fee for Candi Gedong Songo for locals is IDR 15.000 (USD 0,92) and for tourists it costs IDR 75.000 (USD 4,60).

3. Wear a Comfortable Shoes
   If you want to walk to soak every detail of the impressive natural beauty and temple architecture. The walking paths are well arranged and clear, but take note that it will help you if you wear comfortable shoes for you to go through every steep section. Here also provides a gazebo for you to rest and relax while taking a look at amazing views.

Engaging Experiences at Candi Gedong Songo

There are two experiences depending on how you choose to stroll around Candi Gedong Songo, since the temple is complex enough and spread out over several hills, you can explore it either by walking or by renting a horse.

• Leisurely Stroll & Hike: The paths between the temples are well-maintained, offering a pleasant walk for those who wish to explore at their own pace. It’s a fantastic opportunity for light exercise amidst stunning scenery.

• Horseback Riding: For a truly unique and memorable experience, local guides offer horseback rides between the temple complexes. This not only adds a fun element to your visit but also helps you cover the expansive area more comfortably, especially on warmer days. The fee of renting horse riding usually around IDR 100,000 (USD 6,14) to IDR 120,000 (USD 7,36) per horse for one full round exploring the main temples.

Appealing Activities at Candi Gedong Songo

Besides the temples that pleasing the visitors’ eyes, there are some activities that recommended to try while you are here, the activities are:

• Relax at the Sulphur Hot Springs
  Between temples III and IV, find natural hot springs with sulphur water. After walking, a warm soak here is great for tired muscles and is even thought to be good for your skin! There’s an affordable public pool.

• Ayanaz Gedong Songo
  This place offers dozens of Instagrammable spot of photos locations with stunning mountain backdrops, such as hot air balloons, bubble tents, and other unique seating arrangements. The fee entry for this place is quite affordable and it opened everyday, for weekdays it costs IDR 25,000 (USD 1,53), and for weekends it costs IDR 30,000 (USD 1,84). If you need further information, you may check on their official Instagram: ayanaz.gedongsongo.

• Picnic and Relax
  There are many open areas with beautiful views that are perfect for a family picnic. Enjoying your packed lunch in the cool air while gazing at the rows of temples and green valleys will create priceless family moments.

• Learning History in a Fun Way
  Encourage your children to imagine life in the past. Tell simple stories about kings and kingdoms while pointing out reliefs or statues. Make this visit an interactive and engaging way to learn history without being boring.

How to Get There

Candi Gedong Songo is located in Bandungan, Semarang Regency, Central Java. Here is the address of Candi Gedong Songo: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ii4u5jnwhS9FyqPY6  to make it easier for the visitors to find the destination before you choose the options to get there. There are some options to get to Candi Gedong Songo from the downtown, the options are:

• BRT
  Semarang has  public transportation called BRT or Trans Semarang. If you are interested in going to Mount Ungaran by BRT or Trans Semarang, you can utilize this public transportation, don’t forget to take note that this public transportation can not directly take you to the destination. BRT or Trans Semarang only can get you to the Ungaran area, especially Terminal Sisemut. Then, you can continue your trip by ride hailing near Terminal Sisemut. 

• Ride Hailing
  The visitors can try to use ride hailing, you can download the app that is available in your phone, such as; Gojek, or Grab. Then you set “Candi Gedong Songo” as your destination. 

• Self Drive
  If you choose to drive, renting a car or scooter from local providers is a great option. The visitors only need to open the maps and set the route to Candi Gedong Songo.You don’t have to worry about the parking area, there are plenty of available parking areas.