Indonesia plans to boost Prambanan Temple as a hub for religious tourism

The Ministry of Tourism outlined a strategy to position the 9th-century Prambanan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site spanning Sleman District in Yogyakarta and Klaten in Central Java, as a vibrant religious tourism spot. Deputy Minister Ni Luh Puspa emphasized that the goal is to foster public appreciation and active participation in safeguarding the temple's cultural value. Central to the plan is the Prambanan Shiva Festival, scheduled for 6 January-7 March 2027, which will feature spiritual and cultural programming under the theme "The Holy Month of Shiva for Spirituality, Peace, and Harmony."

The initiative aligns with findings from the Global Wellness Economy Monitor 2025, which show travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences. Tourism data show domestic trips rose 4.29 % and foreign arrivals increased 5.38 % over the same period, suggesting the festival could further boost local economies and community welfare.