Things To Do On The Weekend in Surakarta

We really enjoyed being a day on the road with Ajib. His English is impeccable and his knowledge of the Hindu history is inspiring. Since we are suckers for the Hindu symbolism and stories, it was a blessing to be with someone able to explain in so much detail. That combined with tea plantations, drinking tea and visiting a lovely waterfall made it a perfect break from Solo city life. Thank you Ajib, keep up the good work! Sampai jumpah lagi, Remco, Sarah & Duco di Belanda

On a bright and sunny day we start the trek along tea plantations, awesome infinite views and cool wind accompanying us on the way. High at Candi Ceto we find the latest Hindu temple on Java 1500 meters above sea-level whilst mist surrounds us. Ajib our personal guide, a walking history book, narrates endlessly. This temple is of the 15th century, built by the last king of Majapahit. Highlighted by the Hindu society that lives around the temple who are still worshiping this temple using the culture of Majapahit. Next the 4 wheel drive takes us through a steep mountain trail to a 116 steps descent that leads to the Jumog Waterfall decorated in green with fern trees where we go for a bite and drink. In the crystal clear water we chill our feet, before visiting Candi Sukuh located 1100 meters above sea level. This temple was built during the ruin times of Hindu Kingdom where refugees from East Java went to the west to search a peaceful place. Then they finally stop at the sacred mountain and built their mother temple for both worshiping and doing exorcism ceremonies. After the interesting break at Sukuh a two hours mountain hike awaits us. The winding lane meanders around the slopes of the Lawu mountain as breathtaking vistas vary never-ending. Walking along small villages where cheerful mountain people greet. The trail ends at the parking area of Grojogan Sewu waterfall, where optionally you can visit this 80 meters high waterfall. Finally we drive back to Solo. Thanks to Ajib our pathfinder we learned a lot about the history of Ancient Jawa and meeting the local people living in the sunny hamlets that offers every opportunity to relax and unwind in beautiful surroundings...

Very interesting tour. Ajib knows very much about history and the temples were even more beautiful when you get to know the story behind it. We had a great experience and wouldnt want to have missed this on our trip to Solo.