Pawon Temple in Magelang presents a rich history with captivating reliefs, making it a must-visit historical site in the Borobudur area.
Pawon Temple, located in Magelang, Central Java, is one of the historical sites that has very important cultural and historical value. As part of the temple complex around Borobudur Temple, Pawon Temple offers more than just architectural beauty.
This temple holds various attractions that are interesting for visitors, both in terms of meaningful reliefs, the history contained within, and the very calm atmosphere. Here is complete information that you need to know about Pawon Temple.
History and Origin of Pawon Temple
Pawon Temple is one of the temples located around Borobudur Temple, but this temple is smaller and not very well known compared to the other large temples. It is estimated to have been built in the 9th century by the Syailendra Dynasty, which also built Borobudur Temple.
Pawon Temple is dedicated as a place of worship and is believed to function as a place to store the ashes of King Samaratungga, a ruler who was part of a great dynasty that ruled Central Java at that time.
As one of the significant Magelang Temples, it holds historical and cultural importance. The name “Pawon” itself in Javanese means “kitchen,” but in this context, it refers to “a place to store ashes” in the Old language.
The Uniqueness & Attraction of Pawon Temple
1. Captivating Relief
One of the main attractions of Pawon Temple is the reliefs that decorate the walls of the temple. Although the reliefs at Pawon Temple are not as numerous as those found at Borobudur Temple, the reliefs here still have high artistic value.
One of the most well-known reliefs is the relief of Dewa Kuwera, who is depicted as the God of Wealth. This relief is above the entrance to the temple and depicts symbols of prosperity and good luck.
Apart from that, there are also reliefs of Kinara and Kinari, half-bird human figures which are often associated with lovers in Indian culture. These reliefs are located on the north and south sides of the temple, adding to the uniqueness and beauty of Pawon Temple.
Although they do not tell stories like the reliefs at Borobudur Temple, the reliefs at Pawon Temple provide insight into the mythology and beliefs held by the people at that time.
2. A calm atmosphere that is suitable for taking photos
Apart from its reliefs and historical value, Pawon Temple also offers a very calm and peaceful atmosphere.
Unlike Borobudur Temple which is often crowded with visitors, Pawon Temple provides a quieter atmosphere, suitable for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the temple without disturbance.
The well-maintained area around the temple provides a very photogenic view, making it an ideal place for taking pictures.
Visitors can take photos with the magnificent temple in the background while enjoying the beauty of the architecture and reliefs. The peaceful atmosphere around the temple also provides an opportunity for meditation or simply enjoying the peace of everyday life.
Location and Access to Pawon Temple
Pawon Temple is located in Bronjolan Hamlet, Wanurejo Village, Borobudur District, Magelang Regency, Central Java.
The location of this temple is very strategic because it is only about 1.7 km from Borobudur Temple, making it easily accessible for visitors who are already in the Borobudur area.
To get to Pawon Temple from Yogyakarta, you can drive a private car or use public transportation.
Follow the Jalan Magelang route north, then turn left onto Jalan Borobudur after passing Muntilan and Mungkid District. Pawon Temple will be easy to find, and visitors can follow the directions to Wanurejo Village.
Ticket Prices and Visiting Hours
The entrance ticket to visit Pawon Temple is quite affordable. For local tourists, the entrance ticket costs around IDR 10,000 per person, while for foreign tourists, the entrance ticket is around IDR 20,000.
For parking, two-wheeled vehicles are charged Rp. 2,000, and four-wheeled vehicles are charged Rp. 5,000.
Pawon Temple’s operating hours are every day, from 08.00 am to 18.00 pm. With long operating hours, visitors have the flexibility to plan their visit according to the time available.
Interesting Facts About Pawon Temple
1. The Path to Borobudur Temple
One of the interesting facts about Pawon Temple is that there is a footpath that directly connects Pawon Temple with Borobudur Temple and Mendut Temple.
This path is believed to have been used for religious purposes and indicates a close relationship between the three temples. Although this path is no longer usable, this fact reveals the importance of the role of Pawon Temple in the religious traditions of past communities.
2. Storage of the ashes of King Samaratungga
The name “Pawon” which means “kitchen” apparently refers to a place for storing the ashes of the deceased. This leads to the function of the temple as a burial place or place to store the ashes of King Samaratungga, who was the ruler of the Syailendra Dynasty.
Pawon Temple is thought to have been used to store the remains of this king’s body after the cremation process, making it a very sacred place in the history of Hindu-Buddhist civilization in Indonesia.
3. Pawon Temple Has Another Name
In addition to the name Pawon Temple, this temple is also often called Branjanalan Temple, which refers to the temple’s function as a place to store weapons belonging to the God Indra.
This name also refers to the Vajranala weapon which symbolizes strength and power. This shows that Pawon Temple not only functions as a place of worship, but also as a place that has mystical value and spiritual power.
4. The Unique Relief of Kinara and Kinari
The Kinara and Kinari reliefs, which depict half-human, half-bird figures, are one of the unique elements at Pawon Temple. These reliefs are located on the north and south sides of the temple, depicting mythological creatures that play a role in Hindu and Buddhist culture.
This relief is related to the concept of the tree of life, Kalpataru, which symbolizes good luck, eternal life, and blessings in Hindu-Buddhist culture.
Facilities Available at Pawon Temple
To improve the comfort of visitors, Pawon Temple is equipped with various adequate facilities:
1. Parking Area
A large parking area is available for visitors who come using private vehicles. With guaranteed supervision, visitors can feel at ease leaving their vehicles while enjoying the beauty of Pawon Temple.
2. Souvenirs and Gifts
There are kiosks selling various souvenirs typical of Magelang and Yogyakarta, such as miniature temples and other local knick-knacks. These souvenirs can be a memento of your visit to Pawon Temple.
3. Public Toilets
Clean and comfortable toilet facilities are also available in the Pawon Temple area, ensuring that visitors can feel more comfortable when visiting.
4. Restaurants and Eateries
Several restaurants around Pawon Temple provide delicious local dishes. If you feel hungry after walking around the temple, you can enjoy various dishes served with local flavors.
Pawon Temple is a historical tourist destination that not only offers beautiful architecture, but also an experience rich in historical and cultural values.
With beautiful reliefs, interesting facts that accompany it, and a peaceful atmosphere, Pawon Temple is a must-visit for anyone interested in Indonesian history.
If you’re looking for Things to do in Magelang, exploring this historical site is highly recommended. So, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Pawon Temple and dive into the beauty and history contained within it while in Magelang.
