The main stupa atop Borobudur Temple is currently undergoing restoration work, and as a result, visitor access to the temple’s summit has been limited.
Why the Restoration Is Happening
“We’re currently restoring the main stupa, specifically the yasti [spire] at the main stupa. Research has shown that several parts genuinely need repair,” explained Indung Purwita Jati, Operations Director of PT InJourney Destination Management (IDM), following a partnership signing with Pertamina New & Renewable Energy at the Borobudur Cultural Center (BCC) in Magelang on Monday, October 5, 2026.
“The repair work is fairly extensive, because this stone structure has been standing for a long time and had never actually been inspected or restored before. So if people notice what looks like scaffolding and construction equipment at the top, that’s the ongoing restoration of the yasti at the main stupa,” Indung added.
How Visitor Access Has Changed
Indung explained that the restoration work has required adjustments to how visitors move through the temple as they climb toward the top. The repair work specifically is taking place on the temple’s 10th level.
“For regular visitors, access is currently limited to a maximum of level 8. For those participating in sunrise or sunset programs, access extends up to level 9, since the actual work is being carried out on level 10,” she said.
“We need to implement these restrictions for an important reason: to ensure the restoration work can proceed smoothly without being disrupted by visitors climbing to the top,” Indung continued.
Who Handles What
Regarding the technical details of the restoration materials being used, Indung directed questions to the Museum and Cultural Heritage Agency (MCB), noting that her organization’s focus remains on managing visitor flow rather than the technical restoration process itself.
“For technical details, it’s probably best to ask the Museum and Cultural Heritage Agency, or check their Instagram, which likely has fairly complete information on that process. Our focus here is more on visitor management,” she explained.
“That means making sure visitors remain comfortable and undisturbed. That part is solved now, there haven’t been any complaints from visitors. They can still enjoy Borobudur from the top,” she added.
The Chattra Section Remains Unrestored
As of now, the chattra, another architectural element of Borobudur Temple, has not undergone any restoration work.
“The chattra issue isn’t something we’re in a position to answer. That would need to come from the government and cultural heritage authorities. What we can confirm from our end is that the current process involves restoration or repair work on the main stupa,” Indung stated firmly.
Restoration Timeline
Based on gathered information, restoration work on the main stupa began on September 16 and is scheduled to continue through October 24. However, the Museum and Cultural Heritage Agency has not yet provided detailed public explanation regarding the restoration project.
“That’s correct, we’re working from home. I’m sorry, but there’s been no information released from the central office [Ministry of Culture] regarding the stupa restoration announcement yet,” said Wiwit Kasiyati, Sub-Coordinator of the Borobudur World Heritage Unit, when asked for confirmation.
Disappointed Visitors Share Their Experience
Rita Sugiani, 35, a tourist from Cirebon, expressed disappointment over the main stupa’s restoration. She had traveled with four companions, including her children, hoping to see Borobudur’s full beauty, but found the view obstructed instead.
“Honestly, it doesn’t sit right with me. It ruins the view. It should look complete, like what you see in the brochure or in real photos,” Rita told reporters at Marga Utama, Borobudur Temple.
“Something’s missing. The view looks a bit less impressive. If it were complete, it would be beautiful. The best part is really just the tip, the main stupa,” Rita said.
She recalled her last visit to Borobudur was back in 2019.
“Back then, you could climb all the way up, and tickets weren’t too expensive. The tip of the stupa wasn’t covered up like this. It was a much better experience back then,” she said.
Other Visitors Share Similar Disappointment
Nihayah, 26, a visitor from Rembang, shared a similar sentiment. She said she felt let down because the photos she had hoped to take at Borobudur didn’t match her expectations.
“I came specifically wanting to take photos with the main stupa in the background, but when I got here, the main stupa was under construction. I still went ahead and took photos anyway, even though I was a bit disappointed,” she said.
What This Means for Visitors Planning a Trip
For anyone planning a visit to Borobudur Temple before October 24, 2026, it’s worth setting expectations accordingly. The main stupa will remain partially obscured by scaffolding, and access to the temple’s uppermost levels will stay restricted, limited to level 8 for regular visitors and level 9 for those on sunrise or sunset tour packages.
While the restoration is necessary to preserve this centuries-old UNESCO World Heritage Site for future generations, travelers hoping for the classic, unobstructed photo of Borobudur’s summit may want to either adjust their expectations or consider postponing their visit until after the restoration work concludes later in October.
