About Candi Barong
Candi Barong is a 9th-10th century Hindu temple located on a hill in Candisari Hamlet, Bokoharjo, Prambanan, Sleman Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta. Built during the Medang Mataram Kingdom period, it is notable for its terraced layout, distinctive kala Barong ornamentation, and hilltop position offering views over the Prambanan plain. The temple complex reflects Central Javanese Hindu architecture.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a compact hilltop temple complex set on two terraced levels surrounded by agricultural fields and forested slopes. The site features stone temple structures with carved kala-Barong heads, stepped terraces, and open courtyards. The elevated location provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and Prambanan area. Visitors can explore the terraces, view the main shrines, observe stone carvings, and take photographs in a quiet, less-crowded archaeological setting.
Key highlights
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Hilltop location with panoramic views over Prambanan plain
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Two-tiered terraced temple layout unique among Central Javanese temples
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Large kala Barong carving that gives the temple its name
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9th-10th century Hindu architecture from the Medang Mataram period
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Quiet archaeological setting surrounded by fields and forest
History of Candi Barong
Candi Barong was constructed in the 9th to 10th century during the Medang Mataram Kingdom period in Central Java. It is a Hindu temple, believed to be dedicated to Vishnu, and exemplifies Central Javanese temple architecture. The temple is built on terraces on a hill and is named after the large kala head decoration resembling Barong on its upper terrace. It is part of the Prambanan temple cluster archaeological area.
Culture & Context
The temple represents Hindu cultural heritage of ancient Java and is valued for its distinctive Barong kala ornamentation and terraced design. It reflects the religious and artistic traditions of the Mataram period and is maintained as a cultural heritage site within the Special Region of Yogyakarta, visited for educational and cultural tourism.
Route
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