A Guide to Dieng Plateau – Of Ancient Temples and Natural Wonders

While planning our Java trip, I stumbled upon the mesmerising Dieng Plateau. Unlike the familiar scenes of Java, Dieng stood out with its terraced potato fields, ancient temples, shimmering lakes, and steaming volcanic craters. But that’s not all – Dieng Plateau also boasts a balmy climate, grand panoramas, and stunning landscapes. What sealed the deal for us was the ease of making it a day trip from Yogyakarta.

In this article, we will delve into the details of how you can experience the very best of this spectacular volcanic highland in Central Java.

Things to see in Dieng Plateau

Arjuna Temple Complex

Our first stop in Dieng was the Arjuna Temple Complex. You might wonder what sets it apart after seeing the iconic Prambanan and Borobudur temples. However, this complex, featuring some of the oldest Hindu temples in Indonesia, will surprise you not just with its architecture but also with its stunning location.

The temple complex comprises five small temples from the 8th century. Despite being damaged or partially ruined, they stand as lasting symbols of the region’s Hindu heritage and classic Javanese architecture. But what makes this place truly special is its thoughtful positioning amidst the hills and mist-covered surroundings. So, visiting early in the morning offers the best experience. 

When we visited, a layer of mist hung over the lush landscape, and the temple complex was bathed in the soft light of the morning sun. The entire set up looked absolutely ethereal. We left after a few minutes since the place was bustling with school children that day and we needed to visit other attractions too. In different circumstances though, I would have loved to sit on the lawn for hours, soaking in the unfiltered views.

Telaga Warna Lake

Telaga Warna Lake is famous for its vibrant colours, a result of its high Sulphur content, thus earning it the name. We visited the lake after exploring the Arjuna Temple Complex, at around 9 a.m. The lake was wonderfully serene at that time, with no other visitors around—just a few people tending to food stalls by the shore. We moved beyond the stalls to an unobstructed area and were greeted with a dramatic sight. 

The lake dazzled under the morning sun, its surface displaying vibrant shades of green. Misty, green-clad mountains cradled the lake, and a flock of small birds fluttered over the water in playful disarray. A tree leaned over the shore, its branches dipping into the lake. The faint smell of Sulphur and the bubbling water reminded us that the lake sat on an active volcanic area. It was peaceful and picturesque, the perfect setting for some soppy pictures.

Many visitors opt to see Telaga Warna from the viewpoint above rather than visiting the lake up close. This choice is often due to the high entry fees for foreign visitors and the perception that the fees do not match the lake’s offerings. While I can’t speak for others’ experiences, based on our visit, I definitely feel Telaga Warna is a must-see in Dieng. 

Sikidang Crater

Sikidang crater is unlike anything we had seen before – oddly impressive in its own way. The main attraction of the crater is its bubbling mud pool, with steam constantly rising from it. The mud pool sits on a stark ground scattered with Sulphuric fumaroles that keep emitting white smoke. The whole landscape exudes an End of the World kind of vibe . Yet, this bare terrain is beautifully framed by lush greenery and rolling hills, creating a striking contrast to the steaming landscape.

If you want to explore more places in Dieng Plateau, you can read the full blog here: https://theroamingshoes.com/2024/10/a-guide-to-dieng-plateau-of-ancient-temples-and-natural-wonders/

So go ahead and plan your trip to the scenic Dieng Plateau. Hope our blog has tempted the nature lover in you. Check out our other Java blogs Here.