Sambisari Temple

Overview

Candi Sambisari is a 9th-century Hindu temple that was discovered completely buried under 6 metres of volcanic ash and sediment from Mount Merapi. Excavated starting in 1966, the temple now sits dramatically below ground level, accessed by descending into a sunken pit.

Highlights

• Sunken setting: The temple sits several metres below the surrounding rice paddies, creating a unique visual effect.
• Shiva lingam and yoni: Well-preserved ritual stone carvings found in the inner chamber.
• Quiet discovery: Rarely visited despite being easily accessible from Yogyakarta, making for an intimate encounter.

History

A farmer discovered the top of the temple while tilling his field in 1966. Excavation revealed a complete temple compound buried by centuries of volcanic eruptions from Merapi. The main temple is dedicated to Shiva, with subsidiary shrines to Durga, Ganesha, and Agastya.

Visitor Tips

• Easy access: Located just 12 km east of central Yogyakarta, easily combined with a Prambanan visit.
• Best light: Morning sunlight illuminates the temple from above beautifully.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.