Sewu Temple Prambanan: The Lesser-Known Buddhist Temple You Need to Visit

Candi Sewu: The Hidden Buddhist Treasure Beside Prambanan You Must See

If you’re planning a temple trip in Yogyakarta, then, chances are, Candi Prambanan has already made it onto your list. But just 800 meters north of this famed Hindu temple is another remarkable historical landmark that many people miss: Candi Sewu.

Also called Sewu Temple, this 8th-century Buddhist structure is the second biggest Buddhist temple in Central Java after Borobudur. While it may not attract the same throngs as its neighbors, Candi Sewu offers a quieter, more intimate experience and a fascinating peek into old Javanese civilization.

A Short History of Candi Sewu

Built about 782 CE during the Sailendra Dynasty, Candi Sewu is older than both Borobudur and Prambanan. It was originally called Manjusrigrha (“House of Manjusri”), referring to the Mahayana Buddhist Bodhisattva of Wisdom.

The structure was created as a Vajradhatu Mandala, a representation of the Buddhist universe. It once consisted of 249 structures—one large main temple, eight directional temples and 240 smaller subsidiary temples grouped in four circular rows. The name 'Sewu' means 'thousand' in Javanese, inspired by the popular legend of Roro Jonggrang; however, the actual number of temples is significantly lower.

Although Prambanan is a symbol of the resurrection of Hinduism under the Sanjaya Dynasty, Candi Sewu is a strong reminder of the previous Buddhist golden age in Java. The presence of these two imposing temples near to each other also indicates the religious tolerance of the old Mataram Kingdom.

Architectural Elements of Candi Sewu

The main temple is roughly 30 meters in height and has a distinctive polygonal plan with 20 sides. Four pairs of gigantic Dwarapala guardian sculptures guard the eastern entrance and are some of the most attractive elements of the site.

Candi Sewu is not as busy as Prambanan so you can explore the ruins and rebuilt buildings in privacy. The mandala design is still distinctly visible, giving visitors a vivid feeling for how the ancient architects conceived the cosmos.

Reasons to Visit Candi Sewu

Many travelers solely focus on the Borobudur and Prambanan temples. But the addition of Candi Sewu completes the image of the rich temple legacy of Yogyakarta. It’s less marketed, making it excellent for individuals who want a more sincere and thoughtful experience.

Kresna Tour Pro Tip: Take your visit to the legendary Borobudur Sunrise. Sunrise above the beautiful Borobudur Temple is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Then you can visit Prambanan and Candi Sewu together on the same day, a superb combination of Hindu and Buddhist temple investigation.

Damage, Repair and Present Condition

The 2006 earthquake severely damaged Candi Sewu, like many other ancient monuments in the region. The main temple is now accessible again because of ongoing repair efforts, including recent acceleration backed by the Indonesian Ministry of Culture in 2026. The place is still used for Buddhist rites, particularly during Waisak festivities.

Plan Your Visit

Candi Sewu has something distinctive that the more famous temples sometimes lack: calm and perspective, whatever your interests are—whether you are a history buff, a photographer or a spiritual traveler.

At Kresna Tour, we focus on significant Yogyakarta temple experiences. We provide popular shared based transport and private transport of Borobudur Sunrise + Prambanan + Candi Sewu for those who wish to experience both the iconic and the hidden beauties without fuss.

Want to explore Candi Sewu and Borobudur Sunrise?

Contact Kresna Tour today to organize your private temple tour and enjoy the full spiritual and historical beauty of Yogyakarta.

Kresna Tour—Your trusted partner to witness the spectacular Borobudur Sunrise and Yogyakarta temples.