HISTORICAL CENTRE
On the road between Yogyakarta and Semarang is Magaleng, a city surrounded by mountains. Magelang is the closest town to Borobudur Temple, so is often used as a base for travellers.

Given its strategic location in the centre of Java, Magelang historically served as an economic and military centre, with Dutch, British and Indonesians recognising the valuable geographical position. Two military landmarks The National Military Academy, and the military-associated school, Taruna Nusantara are still here. There are a number of colonial buildings that have become tourist sights, including a water tower built by the British. 
 

MUSEUM OF A LOCAL ICON A prince of the Mataram Dynasty, Pangeran Diponegoro, was one of Indonesia’s heroes in the fight against the Dutch rule of Java. A war led by Diponegoro against the colonists in the 1820s led to the loss of 15,000 Dutch Soldiers. The Prince was eventually ambushed by the Dutch at the house that now hosts this museum
The Prince’s personal belongings are memorialised here. The large Magelang statue of Diponegoro also graces Magelang’s town square.

STEAMING ALONG The old plantations through the mountains had their own train line, which has remained in place since colonial days. A section of the track remains in available for charter, travelling from Ambarawa to Bedono through picturesque rice fields, plantations and traditional villages in a teak wood powered steam train dating back to 1907. The two hour round trip includes refreshments, and is best booked in advance where possible. Contact our Visitor Assistance Centre for more information and help booking a trip

ROYAL SOAK
For a bit royal throwback, a visit to the Candi Umbul Baths, a place that the original Majapahit Dynasty relaxed and soaked up the warm volcanic spring water in stone edged baths. The breathtaking views on the journey there, combined with the fantasy of a 14th Century lifestyle make this an interesting trip. The water here is considered sacred by the locals
 

NATURALLY ATTRACTED
Close by the Mendut temple is the Mendut Recreational Park, which has a childrens’ playground, park, cafe, pool and tennis court. The Orchid Nursery is across the street from the park, and encourages learning about local orchid varieties. Orchids are both on display and for sale at this government sponsored nursery and research facility.

Natural water attractions in the area include Bleder Lake, for walking and water sports, Sekar Langit and Silawe waterfalls, and Elo river for beginner level rafting. Ketep Pass is known as a good lookout position, at over a kilometer above sea level, including panoramic vies of Magelang and Yogyakarta
 

MUST TRY Tahu Kupat Magelang. The local delicacy is a tofu and steamed rice with peanut sauce.   GETTING THERE With no local airport, Magelang is served by the airports of Yogyakarta, Solo and Semarang. From there you can get to Magelang City by bus, taxi, or by organising a local driver and car.