Yogyakarta, the traditional seat of the Mataram Empire which built the temples around Borobudur and Prambanan, and later the last stronghold of the Revolution, is still considered by many to be the cultural heart of Indonesia. The performing arts of traditional dance, the puppet play and the gamelan orchestra have evolved over the centuries at the palaces of Yogya and Solo. Especially formative were the years of Dutch intervention when the traditional rulers were deprived of absolute power and so had more time to cultivate and develop the performing arts and batik design. There is enough in and around Yogya to keep you there for at least a week, including trips to the various temples, Parangtritis Beach and the Dieng Plateau.… Read More Yogyakarta Travel Guide