Things to do in Pakualaman

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Sharrie Shaw
Photo by Sharrie Shaw
Photo by Sebastião Mesquita e Carmo
Photo by Sebastião Mesquita e Carmo
Photo by Bien Nguyen
Photo by Bien Nguyen
Photo by Bien Nguyen
Photo by Bien Nguyen
Photo by TurtlesTravel
Photo by TurtlesTravel
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Top places to visit

1. Borobudur Temple

Borobudur Temple is an otherworldly Mahayana Buddhist temple compound. The UNESCO site comprises nine layered platforms and myriad shapes that come together to form this astounding complex. Marvel at the sheer invention and variation in the décor and architecture in one of Buddhism’s most prominent and iconic monuments.
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Borobudur Temple which includes heritage elements, mist or fog and tranquil scenes

2. Malioboro Street

Visit the innumerable shops, markets, cafés and restaurants of Malioboro Street (Jalan Malioboro), an enthralling and entertaining district. Malioboro Street dissects the heart of Yogyakarta’s city center while its adjoining side streets offer further retail and dining options. During the colonial years, the street was the center for the Dutch government. It was later used as a ceremonial boulevard for the Yogyakarta Sultanate. The name is said to come from the Duke of Marlborough, a prominent figure during the British rule of Indonesia.
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Malioboro Street which includes night scenes

3. Prambanan Temple

With its otherworldly appearance and elaborate décor, the Prambanan Temple is considered a masterpiece of Hindu architecture. The 8th-century spiritual compound consists of many temple buildings that seem to rise from the ground with jagged gray spikes. Admire the spectacular architecture and profound meaning of this exceptional UNESCO heritage site.
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Prambanan Temple which includes heritage architecture and a ruin

4. Gembira Loka Zoo

The Gembira Loka Zoo is a vast complex containing many animal enclosures, a botanical garden and scenic grounds. Spread out across a picturesque region of 54 acres (22 hectares), the zoo contains around 470 animals. Bring the kids to the children’s park for a fun day out with the family.
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Gembira Loka Zoo which includes dangerous animals and zoo animals

5. Tugu Yogyakarta

The Tugu Monument is an elaborate obelisk in the heart of the city that has special meaning for the people of Yogyakarta. The 18th-century structure was built by the first sultan of the city in a symbolic location between the Indian Ocean, Mount Merapi and the Kraton Complex. Use the monument as a practical gathering point to meet friends and family during your vacation here.
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Tugu Monument featuring modern architecture

What to do in Pakualaman

Popular places to visit

Malioboro Street which includes night scenes

Malioboro Street

Spend a day exploring Yogyakarta’s liveliest commercial district, which is famous for its batik stores, street food and historic landmarks.

Malioboro Street
Gembira Loka Zoo which includes dangerous animals and zoo animals

Gembira Loka Zoo

Cross the bridges on the Gajahwong River to see the Komodo dragons, orangutans and hippos that inhabit this eclectic zoo.

Gembira Loka Zoo
Tugu Monument featuring modern architecture

Tugu Yogyakarta

Capture spectacular night photos of the popular and luminous White Monument that holds geographical and spiritual value for the locals.

Tugu Yogyakarta
Water Castle showing a pool and heritage architecture as well as a small group of people

Taman Sari

The majestic water pools and fountains in this luxury palace were built to hide and pamper the sultan and his concubines.

Taman Sari
Kraton Complex showing interior views and heritage elements

Royal Palace of Yogyakarta

Watch a puppet performance and listen to traditional music in the cultural and political heart of the city of Yogyakarta.

Royal Palace of Yogyakarta
Fort Vredeburg Museum which includes art and interior views

Fort Vredeburg Museum

See the fascinating dioramas showcasing significant events in Indonesian history and wander through the pretty gardens of this Dutch colonial fortress.

Fort Vredeburg Museum
Yogyakarta Presidential Palace featuring a statue or sculpture, a garden and chateau or palace

Yogyakarta Presidential Palace

Browse the art galleries in the president’s home and learn about the decisions made here relating to the struggle against Dutch settlers.

Yogyakarta Presidential Palace

Malioboro Mall

During your trip to Yogyakarta, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Malioboro Mall. Experience the museums and entertainment venues in this culturally rich area.

Malioboro Mall

Alun Alun Kidul

Explore the great outdoors at Alun Alun Kidul, a lovely green space in Kraton. While in this culturally rich area, find time to visit its shops.

Alun Alun Kidul
Prambanan featuring a ruin and heritage architecture

Yogyakarta

Photo by Yasmin

Ngampilan

Frequently asked questions

Is Pakualaman worth visiting?
Whether you're coming to discover the cultural highlights and local charm or sample regional foods and go on outdoor adventures, there are many things to do in Pakualaman.
How do I spend a day in Pakualaman?
Kick your day off with a visit to Gembira Loka Zoo and Palace of Yogyakarta. Then, check out different areas of Pakualaman for local restaurants and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Pakualaman?
The top tourist attraction in Pakualaman is Gembira Loka Zoo, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Pakualaman?
You can easily tick off top sights like Gembira Loka Zoo, Palace of Yogyakarta and Affandi Museum with a three-day break in Pakualaman. On average, most travellers book two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a bit longer and check out Yogyakarta.
Is Pakualaman a walkable city?
It all comes down to what you'd like to do and see in Pakualaman. Several sights, such as Gembira Loka Zoo and Palace of Yogyakarta, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Pakualaman's best neighbourhoods, Central Yogyakarta is 2 kilometres away from downtown, while Malioboro is 2 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Pakualaman with kids?
Planning what to do in Pakualaman with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're taking a trip with little ones or teenagers, there are lots of family-friendly attractions to keep them busy here.

What to do in Pakualaman for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or thrill seeker, there are loads of things to do in Pakualaman for adults including Malioboro Street and Masjid Jogokariyan.
Are there free things to do in Pakualaman?
One of the easiest ways to learn about free things to do in Pakualaman is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other highlights you can visit without opening your wallet. Museum Sasmitaloka Panglima Besar Jenderal Sudirman is one sight that doesn't have an admission fee.