A Hidden Ancient Temple Amid Terraced Rice Fields
An Ancient Sanctuary in the Highlands
Tucked away on the eastern slopes of Mount Condong, Mount Giyanti, and Mount Malang, Candi Selogriyo stands quietly as a remnant of the 9th-century Mataram Kuno Kingdom. Located at an altitude of 740 meters above sea level in Candisari Village, Magelang, this small Hindu temple offers visitors a tranquil blend of history, spirituality, and scenic beauty an ideal retreat for those seeking both cultural depth and natural peace.
A Journey Through the Heart of Java’s Countryside
The path to Selogriyo is as enchanting as the destination itself. From the parking area, visitors embark on a 2-kilometer walk through lush countryside landscapes, passing terraced rice fields, bamboo groves, and traditional Javanese villages. Along the way, the sound of running water and the sight of farmers tending to their crops create an atmosphere of timeless simplicity. The journey feels like a gentle pilgrimage an immersion into the living heart of Java’s rural charm.
A Testament to Early Hindu Architecture
Architecturally, Candi Selogriyo reflects the essence of classical Indonesian Hindu design. Unlike larger temple complexes such as Prambanan, Selogriyo consists of a single main shrine standing on a stone platform. Its walls are adorned with reliefs and niches that house statues of Hindu deities Durga the Protector, Ganesha the Remover of Obstacles, Agastya the Sage, as well as Nandiswara and Mahakala, the temple guardians. At its peak sits a rare amalaka, a circular ornament resembling a keben fruit, symbolizing purity and eternity a distinctive feature seldom found in Central Javanese temples.
Harmony Between Culture and Nature
What makes Selogriyo truly captivating is its seamless harmony with the surrounding landscape. Encircled by cascading rice terraces that change hues with the seasons from emerald green to golden yellow the temple seems to rise naturally from the earth, a sacred extension of the land itself. Morning mist and mountain breezes add to its mystical ambiance, making it a favorite spot for photographers, history lovers, and meditation seekers alike.
A Hidden Gem of Magelang
Far from the crowds of larger temples, Candi Selogriyo offers a sense of solitude and spiritual calm. It is not just a historical site but a living reflection of Javanese devotion, artistry, and respect for nature. For travelers seeking an experience that unites heritage, landscape, and tranquility, this hidden temple among the rice fields is a true gem of Central Java a place where history whispers through the wind and nature frames the sacred in silence.
