Kalasan Temple is the oldest Buddhist temple in Yogyakarta and Central Java, located about 14 km from Yogyakarta, near the main road between Yogyakarta and Solo.
Built in 778 AD, the temple was created as a tribute related to a royal marriage between the Sanjaya and Syailendra dynasties. It was dedicated to Goddess Tara and also served as a monastery for Buddhist monks. Although commissioned during a Hindu dynasty, the temple reflects strong Buddhist influence and was originally known as Tara Temple.
Kalasan Temple is admired for its intricate carvings and the use of vajralepa, a special coating that protects the stone and enhances its decorative details. The structure stands about 34 meters wide and 45 meters high, consisting of three main parts: the base, body, and roof.
The temple is richly decorated with reliefs, niches, and statues, including figures of deities and lotus motifs. Its roof has multiple levels with Buddha statues, while the surrounding area once featured 52 smaller stupas, many of which are now partially ruined.
