About Yogyakarta, Indonesia

To the south of the volcanic backbone is the homeland of the ethnic Javanese and the centre of their arts, culture and language. Yogykarta (joja) is an excellent base from which to explore the giant ninth-century Buddhist temple Borobudur, and the equally incredible Prambanan complex, a contemporary Hindu site.

Borobudur lay buried under volcanic ash and jungle for hundreds of years before being rediscovered by Stamford Raffles (of Singapore fame) in the 19th Century. A massive restoration project has returned it to its rightful state - glorious and evocative.

Prambanan is equally impressive - a collection of Hindu temples, intricately carved and much bigger than you would have thought possible.

Two must-see wonders of the world.

Yogykarta (Joja) itself is a friendly place, decent guesthouses (5 minutes from the train station), good market, and an excellent base for further exploration; if you’re feeling particularly adventurous you can check out the highly dangerous Merapi volcano.