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- Destinations
- Asia
- Indonesia
- Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta
'Yogya', as it is known, is one of the most attractive and
ancient historical cities in Java. It was established in 1755 when
Prince Mangkubumi built the Kraton Palace, called himself Sultan
and created the most powerful Javanese Kingdom since the 17th
century. Today it remains a symbol of resistance to Dutch Colonial
rule, as well as the centre for classical Javanese art and culture,
including batik, Ramayana ballet, shadow puppetry and music.
At its heart lies the quaint Old City with the elegant Sultan's
Palace at its centre, containing the Water Palace, an interesting
bird market and several museums and galleries. Guarded by
traditionally dressed gentlemen, the splendid interior features
extravagant pavilions and courtyards. Leading away from the centre
are boulevards and backstreets filled with the confusion of
labyrinthine markets containing galleries, shops and numerous other
craft industries - a shopper's paradise for souvenirs and Javanese
art. The silver centre of Yogya, Kota Gede, has streets lined with
silver workshops creating the well-known distinctive design and
variety of silver pieces. Workshops allow the visitor the
opportunity to watch traditional art in action. On every corner
becaks (bicycle rickshaws) clamour for business, eventually
wobbling their way down the windy streets with bargain-weary
passengers inside.
With its ancient historical city, museums, cultural
performances, lively atmosphere and an abundance of accommodation
and restaurants, as well as its proximity to two of the most
impressive religious monuments in the country, it is no wonder that
this splendid city is a major stop on the tourist route.
Information & Facts
Climate
Yogyakarta is characterised by a tropical climate with warm
weather throughout the year and two main seasons. The dry season,
from May to September, is when Yogyakarta experiences dry and sunny
weather with average temperatures reaching around 88F (31C). In the
wet season from October to April the Monsoon arrives bringing with
it plenty of wet weather. December, January, February and March are
the wettest months and tropical storms are common; this is
consequently not the best time to visit Yogykarta.
Language
Bahasa Indonesia is the official language, but many
dialects are spoken. English is widely understood in Jakarta and
tourist resorts.
Money
Rupiah (IDR) is the official currency and is divided into 100
sen. Foreign currency can easily be exchanged at banks, hotels and
money changers in major tourist destinations; US dollars is the
most accepted currency. Cash often yields a better exchange rate
than travellers cheques, which are not always accepted. It is
recommended that travellers cheques also be in US dollars. Most
major credit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants and stores
catering to the tourist trade. ATMs are available in main centres.
Small change is often unavailable so keep small denomination notes
and coins for items like bus fares, temple donations and cool
drinks.
Time
Indonesia spans three time zones. GMT +7 (West, including
Java and Sumatra), GMT +8 (Central, including Bali, Sulawesi and
Lombok), GMT +9 (East, including Irian Jaya).