Yogyakarta : Sultan Palace and Tamansari Watercastle Walking Tour
Active
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Begin your walking tour in the heart of Yogyakarta’s royal area, connecting the Sultan’s Palace and Tamansari Water Castle. Pass through a neighborhood where palace life and everyday traditions still meet.
Discover how the royal heritage continues to shape local life, from architecture and village layout to the crafts that have been practiced for generations. Encounter artisans working on leather puppets and batik, and feel the rhythm of a community that lives closely with its cultural roots.
End your route at Tamansari, once the royal garden and bathing area of the sultan, where quiet courtyards and weathered walls still carry traces of Yogyakarta’s past. Finally, enjoy a ride on a becak, the city’s traditional cycle rickshaw, back to your starting point.
Available options
Yogyakarta : Sultan Palace and Tamansari Watercastle Walking Tour
What's included
Pedicab Fees
Yogyakarta Palace and Tamansari Watercastle entrance fee
Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Kraton Yogyakarta is the royal palace complex and cultural heart of the city. It serves as the residence of the Sultan and a center for Javanese traditions. Inside, visitors find elegant architecture, open courtyards, and carefully preserved artifacts. Daily cultural performances showcase music, dance, and storytelling. The Kraton remains an active symbol of Yogyakarta’s history and living heritage.
2
Discover the rich heritage of Yogyakarta by walking and visiting a traditional village nestled between the Yogyakarta Palace and Tamansari Watercastle. Here, skilled artisans craft intricate leather shadow puppets (wayang kulit) by hand and create vibrant batik using age old techniques. Enjoy an up close look at these cultural crafts, meet the artists in their workshops, and experience the living traditions that make this historic district so unique.
3
Stop 3
Explore Tamansari Watercastle, a former royal garden of the Yogyakarta Sultanate, known for its serene pools, hidden passages, and elegant Javanese architecture. Once a retreat for the sultans, this historic complex offers a glimpse into royal life and the artistry of centuries old design, making it an atmospheric stop in the heart of Yogyakarta.
4
End your journey with a charming ride on a traditional becak, Yogyakarta’s iconic three wheeled pedicab. Sit back and relax as your driver pedals through the lively streets, offering a slow and scenic return to the meeting point. It’s a cozy, nostalgic way to experience the city’s everyday rhythm and local charm.
What's not included
Gratuities
personal expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meeting point will be at Kantor Pos Besar Yogyakarta
About Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta, known as the cultural heart of Java, is a vibrant city rich in history, art, and tradition. As the only royal city in Indonesia, it offers a unique blend of Javanese heritage, modern university life, and stunning natural surroundings, including the iconic Borobudur and Prambanan temples.
Top Attractions
Borobudur Temple
Borobudur is the largest Buddhist temple in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for its intricate carvings and stunning sunrise views.
Historical/Religious
Half-day to full day
IDR 50,000 - 250,000 depending on the view
Prambanan Temple
Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for its towering spires and beautiful architecture.
Historical/Religious
Half-day to full day
IDR 50,000 - 150,000 depending on the view
Kraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat
The Kraton is the royal palace of the Sultan of Yogyakarta and a symbol of Javanese culture and tradition. It houses museums, batik workshops, and traditional performances.
Historical/Cultural
2-3 hours
IDR 10,000 - 25,000
Malioboro Street
Malioboro Street is the heart of Yogyakarta's shopping and cultural scene. It is lined with shops, street vendors, and traditional markets selling batik, souvenirs, and local snacks.
Shopping/Cultural
Half-day to full day
Varies depending on purchases
Mount Merapi
Mount Merapi is an active volcano near Yogyakarta, offering stunning views and adventurous activities like hiking and jeep tours.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
IDR 500,000 - 1,500,000 for jeep tours
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gudeg
A traditional Javanese dish made from young unripe jackfruit boiled for several hours with palm sugar, and coconut milk. It is served with hard-boiled egg, fried tofu and tempeh, and sometimes also with jackfruit core (nungu), and sambal.
Breakfast
Vegetarian (check for specific preparations)
Nasi Kuning
Yellow rice cooked with turmeric, served with various side dishes such as fried chicken, tempeh, tofu, and vegetables.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Soto Betawi
A rich and spicy soup made with cow or buffalo meat, coconut milk, and various herbs and spices. It is served with rice, fried tofu, and tempeh.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat, vegetarian options may be available
Klepon
Sweet rice cake balls filled with palm sugar and coated with grated coconut.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking Mount Merapi
Caving in Jomblang Cave
Jeep tours
Visiting traditional markets
Exploring batik workshops
Enjoying street food
Visiting Kraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat
Watching traditional dance performances
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (May to September)
The dry season offers the best weather for exploring Yogyakarta's outdoor attractions and temples. The skies are clear, and rainfall is minimal.
25°C to 32°C
77°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Indonesian
- Widely spoken: Javanese, English (moderately spoken)
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
Time Zone
GMT+7
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Yogyakarta is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
- • Keep your belongings secure and be aware of pickpockets
Getting there
By air
- Adisucipto International Airport • 5 km from city center
By train
Tugu Yogyakarta Station, Lempuyangan Station
By bus
Giwangan Bus Terminal, Jomblang Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The Trans Jogja bus system is an affordable and efficient way to get around the city. Buses are air-conditioned and have designated stops.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Gojek, Grab
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Malioboro
Kraton
Sleman
Day trips
Borobudur Temple
40 km • Half-day to full day
Explore the largest Buddhist temple in the world and marvel at its intricate carvings and stunning sunrise views.
Prambanan Temple
17 km • Half-day to full day
Visit the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia and enjoy the Ramayana Ballet performance in the evening.
Mount Merapi
30 km • Full day
Experience the thrill of exploring an active volcano with jeep tours and hiking adventures.
Festivals
Yogyakarta Cultural Festival • June to July
Sultan's Birthday Celebration • June 10-12
Malioboro Festival • July to August
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a more in-depth and authentic experience of Yogyakarta's cultural and historical sites
- Try local street food and snacks, but be cautious and choose busy stalls with high turnover
- Bargain for better prices when shopping, especially in markets and street vendors
- Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious and cultural sites
- Learn a few basic phrases in Indonesian or Javanese to enhance your interaction with locals
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
