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To
discover the real, unspoiled East Java means a visit to
the town and surroundings of Blitar, where most of the
remains of the Majapahit Kingdom still stand timeless,
including the largest and most beautiful Hindu temple
complex in East Java, Candi Penataran. This nostalgic
town portrays the untouched, exotic Java, surrounded by
some beautiful, unspoilt beaches, tropical landscapes,
beautiful rice fields and countryside sceneries.
The Hindu temples at Penataran are the largest intact
Majapahit temples, and the finest examples of East Javanese
architecture and sculpture. These temples are inherited
from the Majapahit kingdom’s golden period, during
the governance of King Hayam Wuruk, and are located on
the lower slopes of Mount Kelud, around twenty kilometers
north of Blitar. Construction began around 1200 during
the Singosari dynasty, but the temple complex took some
250 years to complete. And what we see today is almost
entirely the work of Majapahit architects and builders
as a place to worship the god Siva. It served also as
the rest place for King Hayam Wuruk during his journeys
to visit his grandfather’s grave in Simping temple.
For something unforgettable
in Java, bring the experience to another height. Reserve
the private sunset dinner by the
Penataran Temple and find yourself transported into another
world with the charm of ancient beauty. |