Wednesday 29 August 2012

What to Expect When You Travel To Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia

If you think the small city of Magelang doesn't offer much, you couldn't be more wrong. Home of accommodations like Plataran Borobudur Resort & Spa, Indonesia's most-visited temples, and sprawling lush landscapes, the city's awe-inspiring wonders certainly prove that size doesn't matter.

Magelang is located in Central Java, Indonesia. Though covering a relatively small area, the Indonesian city envelops plenty of amusements and diversions for the leisure traveler. It features structures that house its prized heritage, modern attractions and establishments for convenience, and a gateway to some of the country's most treasured landmarks.

Museum Pangeran Diponegoro

Formerly the Karesidenan Kedu building, the site honors the location where Prince Diponegoro, one the nation's heroes, was arrested by the colonial government during the onslaught of the Java War. The chair on which he once sat, along with other artifacts, remains on display within its halls.

Shopping districts

Along Jalan Pemuda is Magelang's very own version of Chinatown, where the Chinese-Indonesian community mostly resides. Roughly translating to "Youth Street", it is lined with several shops, markets, and restaurants. The Town Square, located at the city center, is another spot where visitors can access Magelang's most convenient attractions. These include prominent department stores, cinemas, banking institutions, and business offices.

Parks

Magelang is bordered on the east by the Elo River and on the west by the Progo River, the latter of which can be easily accessed through the Kyai Langgeng Park. Located 1 km from the city center, the 28-hectare property offers a family-friendly environment with playground fixtures, rare plants, sprawling greenery, and rafting activities.

Temples

Probably one of the most famous landmarks and reason to visit Magelang, Borobudur lies just a few minutes from the city. The majestic and truly captivating Mahayana Buddhist monument was built around the 9th century and declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This incredible landmark includes 6 square platforms, topped by 3 more circular ones, and decorated with remarkably detailed relief panels and over 504 Buddha statues. On top of the eye-catching structure is a grand dome, located at the center of the platform, and surrounded by more Buddha statues. The ancient shrine is often the destination for Buddhist pilgrims and, of course, tourists that seek to witness the temple in all its glory.

Sports Complexes and Resorts

For a more contemporary and luxurious holiday in Magelang, the city also offers a variety of establishments for a lavish getaway. The International Golf and Country Club opened in 2006 in the middle of town with an 18-hole greenery designed by Douglas Duncanson and Jababeka. There is also the plush Magelang resort called the Plataran Borobudur Resort & Spa, where guests can retreat to serene, well-appointed spaces while relishing the view of the Borobudur Temple and surrounding landscapes.

By : Bookhotelsonline