A Journey Into the Soul of Borobudur
Step into one of the most breath-taking, soul-humbling places on Earth with William Dalrymple, Dyan Anggraini, David Van Reybrouck, Herald Van Der Linde, Petty Elliott and Janet DeNeefe.
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Join us on a once-in-a-lifetime journey into the raw beauty and ancient pulse of Borobudur, Central Java, a temple so massive, so intricate, and so steeped in human longing and history that it blurs the boundaries between past and present in the most powerful way.
British historian, master storyteller, and author of The Golden Roads, William Dalrymple will guide you through Borobudur’s past, a sweeping tale of dynasties, devotion, and how Buddhism spread across this land, with Borobudur becoming the world’s largest and most extraordinary expression of Buddhist devotion and architecture.
Indonesian artist and researcher Dyan Anggraini will peel back the layers of the women etched into Borobudur’s stone reliefs. Who were they? What did they dream of? And how do their stories echo in the lives of today’s Javanese craftswomen?
David Van Reybrouck, acclaimed Belgian author and historian, will unearth the story of Indonesia’s fierce journey to independence and its lasting global impact. He will shed light on Indonesia’s independence, because you can’t understand this place without digging into the pain, the rebellion, and the sheer courage it took to throw off the shackles of colonialism. It was a revolution that shook the colonial world and ignited a fire of decolonization everywhere.
Dutch writer Herald Van Der Linde will share insights from his acclaimed book on Majapahit, exploring how this once-great empire shaped Indonesia's cultural identity and its enduring influence on modern Javanese society.
Renowned Indonesian chef, writer, and author of several bestselling Indonesian cookbooks Petty Elliott will share her knowledge of Indonesian food, where ancient heritage meets vibrant cuisine. Petty will guide you through the rich tapestry of Javanese culinary traditions, sharing stories, spices, and secrets from Indonesia’s diverse food culture—a sensory celebration of history, flavour, and soul.
Melbourne-born Janet DeNeefe, Founder & Director of the Festival and author of My Island Home and the memoir Fragrant Rice, will be your official host, guiding you through this extraordinary journey with her signature warmth and deep love for Indonesia's culture and stories.
Guest Speakers and Host
You will walk the temple in ways few ever get to experience. Expert voices, the smell of rain on stone, and feasts of Indonesian food—from 13th-century Borobudur-inspired dishes served under the stars to intriguing local specialties and elegant, intimate luncheons. Think wood-smoked spices and Javanese soul on a plate, because food is memory, ritual, and identity.
Experience the magic of dawn with our exclusive Sunrise at Borobudur Tour, a rare opportunity to witness this UNESCO World Heritage site come alive in the earliest light. A unique chance to explore the ancient temple as the first rays of sun illuminate its intricate stupas and reliefs. Be captivated by the serene beauty and ambiance of Borobudur at sunrise.
You will visit the Royal Palace of Yogyakarta, enjoy exclusive face time with members of the royal family, and partake in a long-table lunch of Keraton gastronomy.
This is a rare kind of celebration, not of the past alone, but of connection. To something older. Deeper. Wiser. And far more real than anything your phone screen could ever show you.
Janet DeNeefe, Festival Founder and Director
At a sacred geometry Mandala workshop with Stephanie June Ellis, you’ll learn to draw the universe—its rhythms, its harmonies, its hidden designs. In this slow, focused practice, you will discover how ancient wisdom still shapes the way we see the world.
Then there’s the Kain Lurik weaving studio—for a deep dive into the iconic hand-woven striped textile of this region. You’ll meet the artisans, watch them weave, and see how tradition is kept alive, thread by thread. It's fashion before fashion. The kind that matters.
Nights will be spent dining like royalty at spots like Manohara, nestled inside the Borobudur compound, where the flood-lit temple looms just beyond your table.
Experience an elegant dinner at the world-famous Amanjiwo, featuring an Indonesian feast curated by Chef Petty Elliott using recipes garnered from the Borobudur relief.
At D’Omah Tembi, you’ll be hosted by the inimitable Warwick Purser, Australian entrepreneur, enjoying a classic Rijsttafel dinner in a candlelit garden surrounded by teak joglos. Add live music, chilled herbal tonics, and the kind of conversation that only happens when the day’s been unforgettable.
Where You
Will Stay
You will base yourself at the Plataran Heritage Borobudur, a refined sanctuary just minutes from the temple itself. With its high ceilings, carved teak, and lush tropical gardens, it’s a place where elegance meets authenticity.
Plataran Heritage Borobudur
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The Plataran Heritage Borobudur
A luxury hotel surrounded by rice fields.
Deluxe Room
Detailed Itinerary
Here is the itinerary for your five-day, four-night in-depth Borobudur history and culture tour:
Friday, 24 October
• Early Afternoon: Check-in at Plataran Heritage Hotel, Borobudur
• Evening: A welcome dinner at Plataran Heritage Borobudur, hosted by Festival Director Janet DeNeefe, alongside William Dalrymple, David Van Reybrouck, Herald Van Der Linde, and Petty Elliott, where they will share insights into their respective journeys, discuss the rich cultural heritage of Indonesia, and engage in inspiring conversations about art, history, and storytelling amidst the warm ambiance of this exquisite setting.
Saturday, 25 October
- Early Morning: Magical sunrise tour of Borobudur, guided by a local expert.
- Morning: Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
- Midday: Long table lunch at Plataran Heritage Hotel with renowned Indonesian Chef Petty Elliott, hosted by Festival Founder and Director Janet DeNeefe.
- Early Afternoon: Sacred Geometry Mandala workshop with Stephanie June Ellis, sketching the universe’s harmonious rhythms and patterns.
- Late Afternoon: Indulge in a rejuvenating Javanese spa treatment.
- Evening: Experience dinner at the world-famous Amanjiwo. David van Reybrouck will discuss his book Revolusi: Indonesia and the Birth of the Modern World, exploring the years of Dutch colonial rule and the subsequent struggle for independence. David will be in conversation with Amanjiwo’s Resident Anthropologist. Chef Petty Elliott, together with Amanjiwo’s Executive Chef Reza Kurniawan, will curate a rare Indonesian feast using recipes inspired by the Borobudur relief, sharing their knowledge of the flavors and rich traditions of Indonesia in this unforgettable culinary adventure.
Sunday, 26 October
- Morning: Begin your exploration of Yogyakarta with a visit to Jalan Malioboro and Pasar Beringharjo, followed by morning tea in a traditional joglo café.
- Midday: Experience the grandeur of the Keraton of Yogyakarta with an exclusive meet-and-greet with the royal family and a tour of the palace. Enjoy a long-table lunch together featuring royal-inspired culinary creations.
- Evening: Exclusive dinner at Manohara Hotel, with breathtaking views of Borobudur under the stars. William Dalrymple will share his insights into the history of the Borobudur temple, exploring its origins, architectural marvels, cultural significance, and the stories that have shaped this UNESCO World Heritage site. Dyan Anggraini will peel back the layers of the women etched into Borobudur’s stone reliefs. Who were they? What did they dream of? And how do their stories echo in the lives of today’s Javanese craftswomen?
Monday, 27 October
- Morning: Explore Magelang Market, for a taste of local culture and flavor.
- Midday: Enjoy a casual lunch at Melek Huruf, Magelang’s own hidden library.
- Late Afternoon: Visit the Kain Lurik weaving studio, where artisans showcase their intricate craftsmanship and traditional techniques.
- Evening: Conclude this unforgettable journey with dinner at D’Omah Tembi, graciously hosted by Warwick Purser. Delight in a spectacular Rijsttafel dinner amidst a romantic candlelit garden, accompanied by live music and engaging conversation. Herald Van Der Linde will give a detailed history of the Majapahit Empire and its links to Borobudur.
Tuesday, 28 October
After breakfast together and a wrap-up of this glorious adventure in central Java, we say goodbye before transferring you to Yogyakarta airport for your onward travel to Bali.
29 October to 2 November (Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2025)
As part of the tour, you will be invited to attend the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2025, taking place from 29 October to 2 November. The tour package includes a 4-Day Festival Pass, granting you full access to the main program. You will also receive an invitation to the Festival’s renowned Gala Opening at the Ubud Palace and exclusive Gala Dinner at Casa Luna, Ubud.
Learn more about the festival lineup below:
Price Overview
Prices listed below are per person, based on either single occupancy (one person) or double occupancy (two people sharing a room):
Limited availability
Book Now
Single Occupancy
Price
IDR 109,000,000
AUD 10,250
USD 7,250
Double Occupancy
Price
IDR 99,000,000
AUD 9,350
USD 6,600
Downloadable Resources
Tour Info Kit
(PDF File)
(PDF File)
Payment and Cancellation Terms
(PDF File)
(PDF File)
Questions before booking? Contact us!
Questions before booking? Contact us!
Questions before booking? Contact us!
Questions before booking? Contact us!
Questions before booking? Contact us!
Questions before booking? Contact us!
Questions before booking? Contact us!
Questions before booking? Contact us!
Questions before booking? Contact us!
BOOK NOW!
Secure your place by 30 September with single occupancy at IDR 109,000,000 and double occupancy at IDR 99,000,000 per person.
For the payment, you can choose between Australian Dollars (AUD), U.S. Dollars (USD), or Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Payments can also be made via bank transfer using the accounts listed in the document below.
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