Borobudur Sunrise Experience Returns. InJourney Reopens Access to Temple Hike and Morning Views

Marknews.id – InJourney Destination Management, through its subsidiary PT Taman Wisata Borobudur (PT TWB), has officially reopened access for tourists and students to witness the iconic Borobudur Sunrise and hike the temple marking a new chapter in sustainable cultural tourism in Central Java.

In a move aimed at revitalizing heritage-based tourism, InJourney Destination Management has brought back one of Indonesia’s most cherished travel experiences: the Borobudur Sunrise. After years of suspension since the COVID-19 pandemic, visitors can once again climb the majestic temple before dawn and watch the sun rise over the ancient stone stupas, framed by the silhouettes of Mount Merapi and Mount Merbabu.

The initiative, managed by PT Taman Wisata Borobudur (PT TWB), was launched in collaboration with the Indonesia Heritage Agency (Museum Cagar Budaya), the Magelang District Government, ASITA, and other tourism stakeholders. The reopening aligns with Indonesia’s broader efforts to promote sustainable, inclusive, and culturally respectful tourism.

A Step Toward Sustainable Heritage Tourism

According to Febrina Intan, President Director of InJourney Destination Management, the decision to reopen the sunrise and hiking access is part of a pilot program that will be regularly evaluated. The initiative aims to balance tourism growth with heritage conservation, ensuring Borobudur remains both accessible and protected.

“We want visitors to experience Borobudur in a meaningful way  not just as tourists, but as part of a cultural preservation effort,” Febrina stated. “This program is designed to create positive economic impact for local MSMEs while maintaining strict conservation standards.”

To ensure sustainability, visitor capacity is limited to 100 people per day, with all guests required to wear upanat  special slippers that minimize physical contact and friction with the temple stones. This approach supports controlled visitor circulation and helps protect the 9th-century UNESCO World Heritage structure.

A Revitalized Experience for Tourists and Students

In a significant policy shift, both general tourists and students can now climb the temple daily, expanding what was previously restricted to certain days. This inclusion aims to encourage educational tourism, allowing students to engage directly with Indonesia’s cultural heritage while contributing to the local economy.

Visitors joining the Borobudur Sunrise program can check in through Gate 7 at 4:00 AM, where they’ll receive a flashlight, souvenir, breakfast voucher, and a pair of upanat slippers. Guided by professional tour leaders, guests ascend to the 9th level of the temple to view the sunrise before enjoying an authentic local breakfast at Bukit Dagi, overlooking the temple and the Menoreh Hills.

Tickets are available via WhatsApp at +62 857 2758 7800 or through the official website at ticket.injourneydestination.id, priced at IDR 1 million per person for both domestic and international visitors.

Reviving a Global Attraction with Local Impact

The Borobudur Sunrise was once among Indonesia’s most iconic attractions, drawing travelers worldwide seeking spiritual and photographic inspiration. Its revival marks a symbolic comeback for Central Java’s tourism scene.

Febrina emphasized that this initiative also serves as a catalyst for local economies, particularly small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Borobudur Art Village. By connecting tourism with local crafts and services, the program supports a community-based creative economy that benefits residents and preserves regional identity.

“We’re not just reopening an attraction  we’re rebuilding Borobudur’s global brand as a destination of cultural depth and authenticity,” Febrina added.

A Heritage Experience Reimagined

Through meticulous planning, limited visitor quotas, and a focus on cultural integrity, InJourney’s approach demonstrates how tourism and heritage can coexist harmoniously. The reintroduction of Borobudur Sunrise embodies a vision of tourism that is educational, responsible, and deeply connected to local culture  ensuring that one of Indonesia’s most treasured landmarks continues to inspire generations to come.