Candirejo Village, Borobudur

[responsivevoice_button voice=”UK English Male” buttontext=”Listen to this”] While visiting Borobudur Buddhist Temple in Central Java, the temple itself is not the only place of interest in the area. Not far from Borobudur is an interesting little village called Candirejo. For a break from “modern” life, designate a few days to watch, learn and experience life in this this quaint town, where ancient traditions are still followed, and indeed the village is best known for how it has maintained the authenticity of such traditions.

Candirejo Village is located in the Borobudur District, about 3 kilometers southeast of Borobudur Temple. The village is set amidst lush green fields and tropical rain forests, and populated with friendly people. Candirejo is said to be a symbol of Javanese culture where visitors can experience and participate in a variety of cultural attractions and activities. Many homemade handicrafts and souvenirs are also made here, such as beds, benches and bookshelves of bamboo, and bags and mats made of pandanus; all of which are available for purchase.

Explore the village by foot or horse carriage and discover the variety of things to see and do. Have a chat with the village’s inhabitants and get a closer look into the culture and way of life in the village. Spend the night in the local, traditional houses to further blend in with the village, and join in with any of the many rituals performed in Candirejo.

Another interesting thing to be found in Candirejo is the Tuk Banyu salty springs, which are unique considering the village is quite a distance from the sea. Three other rivers also flow through the village: Progo, Belan and Sileng. Hop on a boat along one of these rivers and try your hand at fishing with the “nylantrang,” which are the traditional fishing nets. As this village is rich in handicrafts, these arts are another highlight of a visit to Candirejo. Crafts made of pandan leaves are some of the masterpieces of Candirejo and are usually in the form of mats or bags or other souvenirs in limited numbers. Bamboo crafts such as furniture and home appliances are also a plenty.

Source : CJHA