Nine buildings
Eighth-century temples.
Michael Gunther — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Michael Gunther — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Crisco 1492 — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Endu Bayu — CC BY-SA 4.0
A group of small Hindu temples from the eighth and ninth centuries, from the old Mataram kingdom, spread over the slopes of Mount Ungaran at about twelve hundred metres; the name means nine buildings. The temples look out over a wide valley and distant mountains, one of the finest views in Central Java. Visitors walk a mountain trail linking the temple groups uphill through pine trees, or ride horses hired from villagers. Halfway up are sulphurous hot springs with rising steam and pools for soaking in the warm water. Tickets are higher for foreigners than for locals, with horses at agreed prices. The weather is cool and misty, and it may rain in the afternoon. Come in the morning when it is clear, with a jacket and comfortable shoes. It combines with the Ambarawa Railway Museum and Umbul Sidomukti in one day.
Eighth-century temples.
Steam and sulphur.
Through the pines.
Bandungan, slopes of Mount Ungaran, about 45 km south of Semarang
The full loop is a moderate climb of about an hour and a half; those who prefer can ride a horse. Cold and mist are common, so be prepared.