A Hidden Gem of a Hindu Temple on the Slopes of Mount Sumbing
When talking about temple tourism in Magelang, most people’s minds immediately turn to the grandeur of Borobudur Temple. However, for those of you who love adventure and tranquility, Magelang holds a captivating ancient hidden gem amidst its lush green natural landscape. That destination is Selogriyo Temple.
Unlike the large temples in the lowlands, Selogriyo Temple offers a unique tourist experience: a combination of historical tourism, ancient architecture, and the refreshing experience of trekking through the beautiful hills.
The Origins and History of Selogriyo Temple
Selogriyo Temple is an ancient Hindu temple. It is estimated to have been built in the 9th century AD, specifically during the heyday of the Ancient Mataram Kingdom (the reign of the Sanjaya Kings).
The name “Selogriyo” itself is derived from Javanese and carries a profound meaning. The word “selo” means stone, while “griyo” means house or dwelling. So, literally, Selogriyo means “House Made of Stone.”
Although not as large as Prambanan Temple, Selogriyo Temple’s location in a high and remote location confirms its primary function in the past: as a place of worship, meditation, and seclusion for Hindu priests seeking spiritual tranquility close to nature.
Location and Route to Selogriyo Temple
Administratively, Selogriyo Temple is located in Campurrejo Hamlet, Kembanglimus Village, Windusari District, Magelang Regency, Central Java. The temple stands firmly on a hilltop on the southeastern slope of Mount Sumbing, at an elevation of approximately 740 meters above sea level.
Travel Route:
1. From Magelang City Center: Approximately 12 km or a 30–45-minute drive northwest (Windusari District).
2. From Yogyakarta: If you depart from Jogja using a travel agency like Jogja Explore Tours, the journey will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by car along the Jogja-Magelang highway.
3. Upon arriving at the final parking area, the real adventure begins. Four-wheeled vehicles cannot enter the temple area directly. Tourists must trek for approximately 1.5 kilometres along a well-maintained and well-maintained path.
Main Attractions of Selogriyo Temple
1. Trekking Trail with a View of “Magelang’s Ubud”
The main attraction that makes Selogriyo Temple so popular with both international and local tourists is its trekking trail. Along the path to the temple, you will be treated to views of lush, terraced rice fields, very similar to the rice fields in Ubud, Bali. The air here is cool, clean, and free from city pollution.
2. Unique Single Temple Architecture
Selogriyo Temple is a single temple (it has no attendants or surrounding temples). Its structure faces east. The main uniqueness of this temple lies in its roof, which is shaped like a pointed square pyramid (called the Amalaka style), which is somewhat different from the roof styles of temples in the Yogyakarta lowlands.
3. Authentic Statues of Hindu Deities
On the outer walls of the temple, there are five niches containing statues of deities in Hindu belief. These statues include:
- Durga Mahisasuramardini statue (to the north);
- Ganesha statue (to the west)
- Agastya statue (to the south)
- Nandiswara and Mahakala statues (guarding the right and left entrances).
4. Holy Spring (Sendang)
Not far from the temple structure, there is a spring, or natural spring. It is said that the local people believe that the water from this spring can bring blessings, make you stay young, and is often used for certain religious rituals on sacred days.
