Kraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat is the primary kraton of the Yogyakarta Sultanate. The sultan and the royal court has its traditional seat there. The complex consists of a number of low-lying buildings such as audience halls, museums, and the residences of the sultan and the queen. (according to wiki). Yogyakarta Sultanate (Indonesian: Kesultanan Yogyakarta; Javanese: Kasultanan/Keraton Ngayogyakerto Hadiningrat) is a Javanese monarchy in the province of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Here is more info on the Sultanate. Yogyakarta (also Jogja, Jogjakarta) is a city in the Yogyakarta Special Region, Indonesia. It is renowned as a centre of classical Javanese fine art and culture such as batik, ballet, drama, music, poetry, and puppet shows. Yogyakarta was the Indonesian capital during the Indonesian National Revolution from 1945 to 1949. More on Wiki. Java is the world’s most densely populated island (population: 136 million). It is home to 60% of Indonesia’s population. Much of Indonesian history took place on Java; it was the centre of powerful Hindu-Buddhist empires, Islamic sultanates, the core of the colonial Dutch East Indies, and was at the centre of Indonesia’s campaign for independence. The island dominates Indonesian social, political and economic life. More information on wikipedia.
YOGYAKARTA, THE NEVERENDING ASIA.
Yogyakarta, together with its twin city Surakarta (Solo), is the cradle of civilization on Java. This city was the seat of power that produced the magnificent temples of Borobudur and Prambanan in the 8th and 9th century and the new powerful Mataram kingdom of the 16th and 17th century. Yogyakarta is known as Neverending Asia for its endless attractions and appeal. This city is one of the foremost cultural centers of Indonesia. From climbing the magnificent Borobudur temple, visiting the Keraton (Sultan’s Palace), to watching silversmiths produce amazing jewelries at Kotagede, to shopping up a storm at Malioboro road, you’ll never be bored in this relatively small yet bustling city. From natural wonders, local art and traditions, examples of Javanese heritage to delicious culinary delights, Yogyakarta is a city with numerous attractions. This is why Yogyakarta is the second most visited destination in Indonesia after Bali.
Get There
There are numerous daily flights from Jakarta, Surabaya and Bali to Yogyakarta. Yogyakarta is also served by AirAsia from Kuala Lumpur. There is a regular train service between Yogyakarta and other major cities. Yogyakarta is also easily accessible by road. Once you arrive, there are a number of ways you can explore Yogyakarta. Walking is a great way to take in the sights and meet the locals though it can get hot by the middle of the day.
Embrace the local mode of transport and try a becak, traditional three wheeled pedal powered cart. Remember to negotiate the price before you start on your journey. Traditional horse drawn carts known as andong can be found in the tourist areas of Yogyakarta. These are a relaxed and romantic way to take in the sights.
Source : Indonesia Travel
