Tourism Guide to Yogyakarta and Surrounding Regencies

 Yogyakarta City

The cultural and historical heart of Java.

• Kraton Yogyakarta (Yogyakarta Palace)
  Center of Javanese culture, traditional performances daily.
• Taman Sari Water Castle
  Historical royal garden with pools, underground tunnels.
• Malioboro Street
  Shopping street, famous for batik, street food, and souvenirs.
• Fort Vredeburg Museum
  Colonial fortress turned into a museum.
• Sonobudoyo Museum
  Javanese artifacts, puppetry, and traditional crafts.
• Kotagede
  Ancient capital of Mataram Kingdom, silver handicraft center.

 Sleman Regency

Located north of the city, famous for volcano and cultural tourism.

• Mount Merapi & Kaliurang
  Trekking, Merapi Jeep Lava Tour, Museum Sisa Hartaku.
• Prambanan Temple (UNESCO site)
  Largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia.
• Ratu Boko Palace
  Archaeological site with sunset views.
• Tebing Breksi
  Limestone cliff with carvings, cultural performances.
• Candi Kalasan, Candi Sari, Candi Plaosan
  Buddhist & Hindu temples around Prambanan area.
• Agrowisata Kaliurang & Ledok Sambi
  Family-friendly nature and river spots.

 Gunungkidul Regency

Known for exotic beaches and caves.

• Beaches
  • Pantai Indrayanti: Clean white sand, cafes.
  • Pantai Timang: Gondola ride and suspension bridge.
  • Pantai Pok Tunggal: Scenic cliffs, photography spot.
  • Pantai Wediombo: Natural infinity pool.
  • Pantai Baron, Krakal, Kukup: Classic coastal destinations.
• Cave Adventures
  • Goa Pindul: Cave tubing in an underground river.
  • Goa Jomblang: Vertical cave with heavenly light.
  • Goa Rancang Kencono: Historical cave with legends.
• Nglanggeran Ancient Volcano
  Geosite with lake, sunrise views.
• Bukit Bintang & HeHa Sky View
  Night views over Yogyakarta city lights.

 Kulon Progo Regency

Western area with mountains, waterfalls, and hidden spots.

• Kalibiru National Park
  Famous for photo spots overlooking Menoreh Hills.
• Kedung Pedut Waterfall
  Multi-tiered waterfall with turquoise pools.
• Sermo Reservoir
  Canoeing, fishing, relaxing by the lake.
• Nglinggo Tea Plantation
  Tea fields with panoramic views.
• Pantai Glagah
  Lagoon and breakwater, great for sunset.
• Jembatan Gantung Kali Progo
  Suspension bridge across Progo River.

 Bantul Regency

South of Yogyakarta, combining beaches, culture, and rural charm.

• Parangtritis Beach
  Legendary beach tied to Javanese mythology.
• Parangkusumo Sand Dunes
  Unique desert-like area, sandboarding available.
• Gumuk Pasir
  Expansive sand dunes, popular for photography.
• Imogiri Royal Cemetery
  Burial site of Mataram kings.
• Puncak Becici & Mangunan Pine Forest
  Pine forest, swings, and great landscape views.
• Seribu Batu Songgo Langit
  Hobbit-style houses and photo spots.
• Kasongan Village
  Pottery and craft center.

 Tips for Visitors:

• Best time: Dry season (May–September).
• Transport: Rent a scooter, car, or use local tours.
• Food: Try Gudeg Yogyakarta, Bakpia Pathok, Geplak Bantul, Wedang Uwuh, Sego Kucing Angkringan.