Borobudur. Just by mentioning its name, my pulse slows down. THE quintessential place for a moment of meditation, away from the Yogya city buzz. My favorite place on Java, for sure, a monument unlike any other, a landmark that has been standing there for ages. The peace that the buddha statues radiate, the faces even on the carvings of the lower levels, it just makes one smile.
Tipp: don't take a silly guided tour, it's not worthwhile. Far too short to have a good look in a few hours, just take a VERY early private transport to the place, bribe some local vendors to get over the fence before sunrise and just listen to the early morning sounds, as the surrounding hills get visible through the fog. The Merapi in the distance is impressive and dominant, the variety of trees all around makes you feel like being away from civilization and the feeling of peace on the monument itself is indescribable. An absolute MUST SEE!
The Mendut buddhist monastery in the vicinity is also definitely worthwhile visiting, next to the other old buddhist attraction.
