IPPA congresses traditionally include a full-day tour usually scheduled in the middle of the programme. The mid-conference tour offer delegates the opportunity to visit and explore cultural and archaeological sites of the host region. For our 23rd congress, there are three destinations to choose from, each highlighting Central Java's heritage. Participation in these tours is optional, but we strongly encourage delegates and guests to take this chance to socialise with fellow participants while learning about the history, cultural significance, and archaeological relevance of the places included in the tour.

Destination 1: Borobudur Complex and Liyangan Temple

This is a full-day tour of two major landscapes in Central Java: the Buddhist complex of Borobudur and the Hindu-Buddhist site of Liyangan.

Quota: 200 participants

Tour Coordinator: Putri Novita Taniardi (putri.taniardi@gmail.com)

Borobudur

Borobudur is the largest Buddhist temple in the world and widely regarded as one of the most important architectural and cultural achievements of the ancient Javanese. The monument was built during the Syailendra Dynasty approximately between 778 and 824 CE. It is located in Magelang, in the southern part of Central Java, Indonesia. Borobudur was added on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1991 (Dossier 592) and described as “one of greatest Buddhist monuments in the world.” Today, Borobudur serves as one of the main sources of history and culture in Indonesia and is valued as extraordinary cultural heritage. The temple was built with a pyramidal base consisting of five square terraces, three circular platforms in the middle part, and a dome at its highest point. The Borobudur Temple has 2,672 relief panels depicting the story of Buddha. This includes 1,460 narrative relief panels, ranging from Kamadhatu at the foot of the monument through Rupadhatu on the body of the temple. These relief panels are grouped into five major narrative cycles, based on the textual traditions from Karmawibhangga, Lalitavistara, Jataka, Avadana, and Gandavyuha. There are also 504 Buddha statues and various stupas. The relief of Borobudur is rich in human anatomical forms, plant and animal figures, as well as environmental components such as water, cloud, and stones. The stone wall reliefs of this temple illustrate some of the most important stories in the Buddhist tradition that cannot be found anywhere else.

Liyangan

Nestled on the slopes of Mount Sindoro in Purbosari Village, Ngadirejo District, Temanggung, Central Java, the ancient Liyangan Site was accidentally discovered by sand miners in 2008. Archaeological research has revealed Liyangan as a remarkable ancient settlement complex that integrates sacred worship spaces, residential areas, and agricultural landscapes within a single civilization. Excavations have uncovered an extraordinary range of archaeological evidence, including architectural structures, artefacts, and exceptionally well-preserved organic materials such as wood, bamboo, and palm fibre. These rare discoveries provide a vivid picture of daily life and cultural practices in ancient Java. The Liyangan settlement is believed to have existed from the 2nd century and flourished until the 11th century CE, before being buried by the eruption of Mount Sindoro. Layers of volcanic material sealed the site, unintentionally preserving its archaeological remains for centuries. Covering an area of approximately 15 hectares, the site has been excavated only in a small portion, yet findings already demonstrate a sophisticated society with integrated settlement planning, irrigation systems, and agricultural management. As part of the broader Ancient Mataram civilisation, Liyangan offers invaluable insight into the social, spiritual, and technological achievements of early Javanese culture.

This tour is limited to 200 participants. For more information and other logistical details please contact Putri Novita Taniardi: putri.taniardi@gmail.com.

Destination 2: Sangiran Early Human Site

This tour takes delegates to the Sangiran Early Human site, including the Sangiran Museum of Early Humans, located in Central Java.

Quota: 200 participants

Tour Coordinator: Citra Iqliyah Darojah (citra_darojah@unud.ac.id)

This tour is limited to 200 participants. For more information and other logistical details please contact Citra Iqliyah Darojah: citra_darojah@unud.ac.id.

Sangiran, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is world-renowned as the homeland of ‘Java Man’. This impressive landscape contains an extraordinary collection of fossils from the Pleistocene period. This site also houses the famous Homo erectus specimen, the Sangiran 17, one of the best-preserved early human remains ever discovered. Sangiran 17 is one amongst hundreds of important finds. Almost 50% of Homo erectus fossils discovered world-wide come from Sangiran. Most of the fossil findings are now stored in the museum, and many of them are accessible to the public in the Museum Sangiran. The displays are accompanied by information derived from Sangiran’s long history of research beginning in the early 20th century. Collaborative research from Indonesian and international archaeologists conducted archaeological excavations following earlier discoveries by the people of Sangiran. This is a place where science meets local knowledge. It is where you can learn the prehistoric life and culture of our ancestors. The existence of Sangiran ensured fascinating discoveries in a particular geological, social, and cultural landscape.

Destination 3: Prambanan Temple Compounds

This tour brings delegates to the Prambanan Temple Compounds, considered as the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia. It is approximately 17 km from the city of Yogyakarta.

Quota: 400 participants

Tour Coordinator: Aditya Revianur (aditya.revianur@ugm.ac.id)

This tour is limited to 400 participants. For more information and other logistical details please contact Aditya Revianur: aditya.revianur@ugm.ac.id.

Prambanan, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is often called "Indonesia's Greatest Hindu Temple Masterpiece." This impressive complex preserves the legacy of the Ancient Mataram civilisation from the 9th century CE. The 47-meter-high Shiva Temple, one of the tallest in Southeast Asia, stands at the heart of the site and is dedicated to the Trimurti: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. This main temple is just one among hundreds in the area. Together with nearby temples such as Sewu, Plaosan, and Sojiwan, Prambanan forms part of one of the most densely packed temple landscapes in Java. Many artifacts and historical records are now kept in the Prambanan Museum, which is open to visitors. The museum also displays the Shivagrha Inscription from 856 CE, which helps date the site. These discoveries are supported by a long history of research and restoration, including the anastylosis method used between 1918 and 1953. Indonesian and international archaeologists continue to work together on excavations and studies here. Prambanan is also a place where archaeology meets local legends, such as the story of Roro Jonggrang, which is still told in the community. Visiting Prambanan offers a chance to explore the spiritual, artistic, and technological achievements of the past. The site promises new discoveries in a setting rich with history, culture, and tradition.

Additional Tour Requirements and Fees

All tours and entry to all sites require compliance with the IPPA23 dress code, with appropriate clothing and shoes.

Food and drinks will be provided, but please ensure all participant details and dietary requirements are recorded in the Mid-Conference Tour Form. Please note that only those who completed and submitted the form can be included in the tour, including all guests and children.

Dress Code

The ancient temples of Java have strict dress codes that must be adhered to. Please make sure you are wearing modest attire that covers the shoulders and knees. White or light colours are preferred in the temples. You will also need sensible walking shoes.

Additional Guest Fees

All delegates who are fully registered are already covered for our mid-conference tour.

Fees apply to additional guests who are not registered for the conference:

Adults: $45 USD ($63 AUD)

Children (3-10 years old): $36 USD ($50 AUD)

Arrangements for payment can be made by contacting our Local Organising Committee:

M. Dziyaul F. Arrozain (Yaul): dziyaularrozain@gmail.com

Sign-up for the IPPA23 mid-conference tour here

Please sign up and join the MID-CONFERENCE TOUR by completing this form

MID-CONFERENCE TOUR SIGN-UP FORM

POST-CONFERENCE TOUR

1. Full-Day Song Terus Prehistoric Heritage Trail

Code: FDTBST

PRICE: USD 145 per person (net); 10% discount for children under 12 years old

Point of Contact

Nia Marniati Etie Fajari

National Research and Innovation Agency

Email: niam002@brin.go.id / diang.hayami@gmail.com

OVERVIEW

Step back in time thousands of years and discover the lost treasures of Java’s prehistoric heartland on this full‑day archaeological and cultural trip. Explore the Song Terus site, where cave adventure, hands‑on history and stunning countryside views come together. This tour is a real treat for anyone seeking a genuine insight into the past.

TOUR DESCIPTION (L)

Depart from your hotel at 7:30 for a full day of adventure outside the city.

Sit back and enjoy a scenic drive through Yogyakarta’s countryside, passing rice fields, limestone hills, and quiet rural villages.

Your first stop is Situs Sokoliman, a prehistoric heritage site marked by ancient stone coffins, menhirs, and megalithic monuments. First documented in the 1930s, the site offers insight into early burial traditions, revealing how prehistoric communities in the Wonosari Basin honoured their ancestors and expressed spiritual beliefs through stone rituals.

Yogyakarta – Sokoliman: 46 km (1.5 hrs drive)

The next stop is Song Terus, The karst landscape gets even more dramatic as you travel deeper into the countryside.

Sokoliman – Song Terus: 58 km (1.5 hrs drive)

Song Terus is famous for its wealth of prehistoric discoveries and its on‑site research centre. Inside the museum, you’ll find more than 4,600 artifacts, including tools, fossils, and objects that trace the story of early communities. Take part in entertaining cultural events and interactive exhibits that bring historic customs to life, enhancing the educational and entertaining experience.

After a full day of exploration, settle in for a relaxed drive back to Yogyakarta. You'll arrive at your hotel in the early evening.

Song Terus – Yogyakarta: 92 km (2.5 hrs drive)

INCLUSIONS

1 x Indonesian‑style lunch
Mineral water and snacks during the tour
Tour by air‑conditioned vehicle
Entrance fees and donations as indicated in the itinerary
Local expert at site

NOT INCLUDED

Visa arrangements
International and domestic flights
Meals other than those mentioned in the itinerary
Camera and video permits
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Tipping for driver and crew

Terms and Conditions

Maximum participants: 40 pax
Full payment required upon registration
Price per person based on a minimum of 8 participants.
If the number of participants falls below the minimum requirement, the tour will be cancelled with a full refund, or participants may choose to join another available program.

Cancellation Policy

Up to 45 days before the tour date – no cancellation fee
30 days before the tour date – 75% of tour price
14 days before the tour date – 100% of tour price
Refunds are calculated based on the date we receive your written cancellation

2. Full-Day Tour Yogyakarta – Gua Braholo Pre-Historic Cave & Village Life Experience

Code: FDTYBV

PRICE: USD 140 per person (net); 10% discount for children under 12 years old

Point of Contact

Nia Marniati Etie Fajari

National Research and Innovation Agency

Email: niam002@brin.go.id / diang.hayami@gmail.com

OVERVIEW

Step off the beaten path and experience Yogyakarta in a whole new light on this full‑day adventure into Gunungkidul’s countryside. Discover Gua Braholo, a remarkable prehistoric cave, before getting a genuine feel for village life. This day trip blends archaeology, nature, and culture, offering a unique glimpse into the past and a real sense of what everyday life is like in rural Indonesia.

TOUR DESCIPTION (L)

Take an early breakfast at your hotel before setting off at 6:30 for the countryside. Throughout the day, immerse yourself in both real‑life village experiences and prehistoric exploration.

Leave the city behind as you drive into the hills of Gunungkidul Regency, heading toward Rongkop—an area known for its natural caves and well‑preserved local traditions. En route, make a short stop at Situs Sokoliman, a prehistoric site featuring ancient stone coffins, menhirs, and megalithic monuments.

Yogyakarta – Sokoliman: 46 km (1.5 hrs drive)

Spread across a protected area of more than 2,000 m², Sokoliman was first documented in 1935 by Dutch archaeologists. Excavations have revealed numerous megalithic remains that illustrate how prehistoric communities in the Wonosari Basin honoured their ancestors and expressed spiritual beliefs through stone monuments.

Continue toward Rongkop until you reach Gua Braholo, one of Java’s most significant archaeological caves. Step inside the limestone cavern as your guide shares stories of early human communities, prehistoric tools, and remarkable discoveries. Gain insight into how people lived and adapted to their environment during the late Pleistocene–Holocene period.

Sokoliman – Gua Braholo: 32 km (50 mins drive)

After exploring the cave, head to a nearby village where you will spend time with a local family. Learn about indigenous plants used in cooking and traditional medicine, and observe how ingredients are processed using age‑old methods. Watch as your hosts prepare home‑cooked dishes the traditional way.

Enjoy a home‑style lunch—a chance to taste authentic regional flavours and connect with your hosts.

After a full day of exploration, sit back and relax as your driver takes you back to your hotel in Yogyakarta.

Gua Braholo – Yogyakarta: 66 km (2 hrs drive)

INCLUSIONS

1 x Indonesian‑style lunch
Mineral water and snacks during the tour
Tour by air‑conditioned vehicle
Entrance fees and donations as indicated in the itinerary
Local expert at site

NOT INCLUDED

Visa arrangements
International and domestic flights
Meals other than those mentioned in the itinerary
Camera and video permit
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Tipping for driver and crew

Terms and Conditions

Maximum participants: 40 pax
Full payment required upon registration
Price per person based on a minimum of 8 participants.
If the number of participants falls below the minimum requirement, the tour will be cancelled with a full refund, or participants may choose to join another available program.

Cancellation Policy

Up to 45 days before the tour date – no cancellation fee
30 days before the tour date – 75% of tour price
14 days before the tour date – 100% of tour price
Refunds are calculated based on the date we receive your written cancellation

3. Full-Day Solo City Tour – Sukuh Temple

Code: FDTSOS

PRICE: USD 140 per person (net); 10% discount for children under 12 years old

Point of Contact

Nia Marniati Etie Fajari

National Research and Innovation Agency

Email: niam002@brin.go.id / diang.hayami@gmail.com

OVERVIEW

Time to visit Surakarta or simply known as Solo, the neighbour city of Yogyakarta. Just like Yogyakarta, Solo has a monarchy called Kasunanan Surakarta, which is older than the Yogyakarta Sultanate and still exists today. You will learn about the history of the Sultanate and explore the museum. This tour is combined with a visit to the magnificent Sukuh Temple, located in the outskirts of Solo. Sukuh Temple is a monument that represents the final phase of the Hindu-Buddhist period in Java, making it entirely different from other temples in Java.

TOUR DESCIPTION (L)

Depart from your hotel after breakfast at 7:00 for and drive to Surakarta, also known as Solo, the neighbouring city of Yogyakarta.

Yogyakarta – Solo: 66 km (1.5 hrs drive)

First stop is Pasar Gede, the vibrant and oldest traditional market located in the heart of the city. You will experience the hectic morning inside the market where traders are selling herbs, spices, fruits, crafts, and traditional snacks while locals are enjoying their breakfast at food stalls.

Continue to Kasunanan Surakarta Palace, a 281-year old palace used to be the epicentre of Javanase culture before its split due to political dynamics during the Dutch occupation era in Java. This led to the establishment of Yogyakarta Sultanate and marked the end of the Mataram Islam Kingdom. Inside the palace, you will see a majestic compound of traditional Javanese architecture with a touch of European styles and experience a living royal residence with the newly-renovated museum. The museum houses royal artifacts including heirlooms, royal attire, gamelan set, and traditional weapons.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant before departing to Candi Sukuh or Sukuh Temple in the outskirts of Solo.

The one-hour journey will take you through the countryside with a view of lush rice paddies. If time permits, we'll make a quick stop to Matesih Prehistoric Site, believed to date back to the megalithic period. This site consists of a group of about 30 menhirs arranged in a stone enclosure. This location is thought to have once served as site for religious activities and reflects the lives of prehistoric communities on the slopes of Mount Lawu. As the route heads to the foothills of Mount Lawu, it will open to a dramatic, high-altitude alpine view.

Solo – Situs Matesih: 30 km (55 mins drive)

Situs Matesih – Candi Sukuh: 16 km (40 mins drive)

Once you arrive and step into the temple compound, you will witness one of the most unique and enigmatic monuments ever built during the ancient civilisation in Java. Unlike other temples in Java, Candi Sukuh completely discards the typical and classic monument that was built to worship the Gods in the Hindu Mythology. This temple epitomises the perspective of the ancestors during the fading years of Hindu-Buddhist period, where the common themes of its carved stones and statues centre on the life cycle of human beings, spiritual cleansing, and atonement. The main temple is shaped like a Mayan or Aztec pyramid, a form more commonly seen in Central America rather than in typical Hindu and Buddhist temples in Central and East Java. Take your time to explore the compound and observe the magnificent details of the ornaments.

After a long day, sit back and enjoy the journey back to your hotel in Yogyakarta.

Candi Sukuh - Yogyakarta: 114 km (2.5 hrs drive)

INCLUSIONS.

1 x Indonesian‑style lunch
Mineral water and snacks during the tour
Tour by air‑conditioned vehicle
Entrance fees and donations as indicated in the itinerary
English-speaking tour guide and local guide

NOT INCLUDED

Visa arrangements
International and domestic flights
Meals other than those mentioned in the itinerary
Camera and video permit
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Tipping for driver and crew

Terms and Conditions

Maximum participants: 40 pax
Full payment required upon registration
Price per person based on a minimum of 8 participants.
If the number of participants falls below the minimum requirement, the tour will be cancelled with a full refund, or participants may choose to join another available program.

Cancellation Policy

Up to 45 days before the tour date – no cancellation fee
30 days before the tour date – 75% of tour price
14 days before the tour date – 100% of tour price
Refunds are calculated based on the date we receive your written cancellation

4. Java's Classic - Prehistoric & Majapahit Heritage Trail (Sambisari Temple Compound, Trinil, Trowulan, & Surabaya)

2 Days / 1 Night tour

Code: OVSTWS

PRICE:

USD 280 per person (net)
USD 65 per person (net) single supplement for solo travellers
10% discount for children under 12 years old

Point of Contact

Nia Marniati Etie Fajari

National Research and Innovation Agency

Email: niam002@brin.go.id / diang.hayami@gmail.com

OVERVIEW

Take this fascinating two-day trip from Yogyakarta to Surabaya and travel through millennia of history. Start with a visit to Sambisari Temple Compound, and stand at Trinil, where the famed “Java Man” fossil was first uncovered. On Day 2, discover the red-brick ruins of Trowulan before continuing toward Surabaya. A blend of archaeology, royal heritage, and city life, this overland tour links Java’s ancient past with its living present.

DAY 1: Yogyakarta - Sambisari Temple Compound - Trinil - Trowulan (L)

Get up early and get ready for a full day touring the ancient heartland of Java. You will be picked up at your hotel lobby at 7:30, after breakfast.

Yogyakarta – Candi Sambisari: 14 km (35 mins drive)

The first stop is Sambisari Temple or locally known as Candi Sambisari. This temple is one of the monuments built around 9th century during the Ancient Mataram Kingdom in Central Java, dedicated to Shiva, a major Hindu God. One of the unique features of this temple is its location, where it sits 6.5 metres below ground level and was completely buried for centuries under layers of volcanic ash from Mount Merapi, until it was accidentally discovered in 1966 by a local farmer. The site was fully restored in 1987 after an extensive work with experts from various specialist fields and backgrounds.

Take a look around the temple where a castle-like structure stands in the middle of a lawn-surrounded courtyard. Once you step into the main temple, you will see Lingga and Yoni statue, an iconic pair of sacred and abstract symbols in Hinduism representing cosmic creation, energy, and balance, and embodying the God Shiva and his divine consort, Parvati.

Continue your journey through the East Java’s countryside, towards the quiet village of Trinil, one of the most famous locations in the history of human evolution research. Back in 1891, Dutch anatomist Eugène Dubois dug up part of a skull, a thigh bone, and some teeth on the banks of the Bengawan Solo River - what we now call “Java Man” or Homo erectus.

Candi Sambisari - Trinil: 148 km (2 hrs drive)

This discovery was the first early human fossil ever found outside Europe, providing groundbreaking proof that ancient humans once lived in Asia and transforming scientific understanding of evolution. Suddenly, Java was on every palaeoanthropologist’s map.

Learn about Dubois’ expedition and see displays explaining how this modest riverside site became one of the most significant fossil discoveris of the 19th century, laying the foundation for modern human-origins research.

Afterwards, the journey continues to Trowulan. The road winds through volcanic hills and traditional villages. When you finally reach your hotel, you can just relax - there’s nothing left on the schedule after such a packed day.

Trinil – Trowulan: 155 km (2 hrs drive)

DAY 2: Trowulan (L)

Enjoy breakfast before heading out to discover the Majapahit capital.

Step into the remains of Trowulan, believed to be the capital of the Majapahit Empire - one of Southeast Asia’s greatest kingdoms, ruling from the 1200s to the 1400s. At its peak, Majapahit controlled routes and shaped much of what we recognise as Indonesia today.

Wander through the open-air archaeological park filled with red-brick structures, temple foundations, and water systems that still hint at their old ingenuity. Visit notable landmarks such as Bajang Ratu Gate, a ceremonial royal entrance, and Candi Tikus, a ritual bathing complex that showcases impressive hydraulic engineering.

Inside the museum, browse collections of terracotta figurines, pottery, coins, tools, and everyday artifacts that reveal the sophistication of Majapahit urban life, craftsmanship, and international trade.

Step inside the museum and browse collections of old terracotta statues, pottery, coins, tools, and everyday artifacts. They paint a pretty clear picture of what Majapahit city life was like—busy, skilled, and connected to the wider world.

When you’re done exploring, hop in the car for and drive to Surabaya, second largest city in Indonesia.

Trowulan – Surabaya: 60 km (1,5 hrs drive)

Before your hotel drop-off, enjoy a relaxed introduction to Surabaya’s historic Old Town or Kota Lama. Wandering through the area feels like stepping into another era, with Dutch colonial buildings, old shophouses, and winding streets that hint at the city’s days as a bustling trading port. Continue on foot until you hit a local market, packed with fresh produce, spices, snacks, and all sorts of daily goods. The place buzzes with life. Watch people go about their routines, maybe try a snack or two, and soak up the energy. It’s a perfect cultural contrast to the ancient sites visited earlier, and gives you a whole different side of Surabaya.

Following the conclusion of the tour, rest of the day at your own arrangement.

NOTE: This tour is concluded in Surabaya and you may take your next flight or train journey from Juanda International Airport (SUB) or Surabaya Train Station (Pasar Turi or Gubeng)

INCLUSIONS.

2 x Indonesian‑style lunch
1-night stay in a 3-star hotel, based on sharing bed (double or twin bed)
Mineral water and snacks during the tour
Tour by air‑conditioned vehicle
Entrance fees and donations as indicated in the itinerary
English-speaking tour guide and local guide

NOT INCLUDED

Visa arrangements
International and domestic flights
Meals other than those mentioned in the itinerary
Camera and video permit
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Tipping for driver and crew

Terms and Conditions

Maximum participants: 40 pax
Full payment required upon registration
Price per person based on a minimum of 8 participants.
If the number of participants falls below the minimum requirement, the tour will be cancelled with a full refund, or participants may choose to join another available program.

Cancellation Policy

Up to 45 days before the tour date – no cancellation fee
30 days before the tour date – 75% of tour price
14 days before the tour date – 100% of tour price
Refunds are calculated based on the date we receive your written cancellation

OVERVIEW

This is a two day trip, the first day mostly will be spent on road travel from Yogyakarta to Bumiayu (6-7.5 hours drive) and one field visit at one of BRIN’s excavation sites. You will be staying for one night in a BRIN field facility, expect for a modest air conditioned room with shared toilets. The second day will be spent on a trip to Semedo Museum (2-3 hours drive from Bumiayu), and travel back to Yogyakarta.

Bumiayu Site is one of the archaeological and paleontological areas located in Brebes Regency, Central Java Province. This area contains archaeological remains important to the study of environmental evolution and prehistoric life on the Island of Java. Although its archaeological and geological potential was discovered in 1925, intensive research did not begin until 2025 through the Research and Innovation program. Bumiayu Site covers an area of approximately 67 km² and contains abundant faunal fossils, contributing more than 70% to the biostratigraphic framework of Java Island. This potential makes Bumiayu Site an important location for reconstructing environmental history, faunal evolution, and the presence of early humans around 1–2 million years ago.

Semedo Site is a premier prehistoric area in Kedungbanteng, Tegal Regency, Central Java, preserving Pleistocene remnants including Homo erectus skull fragments and Paleolithic stone tools, alongside 2.4-million-year-old deep-sea evidence like fossilized shark teeth, corals, mollusks, and sea turtles now managed at the modern Semedo Museum. Located approximately 26 kilometers or a 1-hour drive east of downtown Tegal via the Suradadi Pantura route, this educational destination offers an immersive journey through natural evolution and early human history, making it the perfect highlight for both school excursions and general tour programs.

DAY 1: Yogyakarta - Bumiayu

Start your day early and prepare for an unforgettable journey through the ancient heartland of Java. Please gather at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB), Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) at 6:00 AM, where your guide and transportation will be ready to begin a full-day exploration of Central Java's remarkable prehistoric and cultural heritage.

Yogyakarta – Kali Glagah River, Bumiayu: 350 km (6-7.5 hours drive)

Kali Glagah River – The Ancient Coastline & The Great Marine-Land Transition

Along the Kali Glagah River, visitors will observe one of Java’s most dramatic geological boundaries: the precise contact zone where the marine Kalibiuk Formation shifts into the terrestrial Kaliglagah Formation. Walking along the riverbed, the group will examine fine-grained, shell-rich layers containing fossilized Turritella gastropods and bivalves—remnants of a shallow marine bay from ~2 million years ago. Further along the exposure, visitors will see these ocean-floor sediments give way to coarse river gravels and sandstones, physically illustrating the exact geological moment when tectonic uplift and volcanic activity pushed the sea back and created the first landmass of Central Java.

DAY 2: Trowulan (L)

Enjoy breakfast before heading out to discover the Majapahit capital.

When you’re done exploring, hop in the car for and drive to Surabaya, second largest city in Indonesia.

Trowulan – Surabaya: 60 km (1,5 hrs drive)

Following the conclusion of the tour, rest of the day at your own arrangement.

NOTE: This tour is concluded in Surabaya and you may take your next flight or train journey from Juanda International Airport (SUB) or Surabaya Train Station (Pasar Turi or Gubeng)

INCLUSIONS.

2 x Indonesian‑style lunch
1-night stay in a 3-star hotel, based on sharing bed (double or twin bed)
Mineral water and snacks during the tour
Tour by air‑conditioned vehicle
Entrance fees and donations as indicated in the itinerary
English-speaking tour guide and local guide

NOT INCLUDED

Visa arrangements
International and domestic flights
Meals other than those mentioned in the itinerary
Camera and video permit
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Tipping for driver and crew

Terms and Conditions

Maximum participants: 40 pax
Full payment required upon registration
Price per person based on a minimum of 8 participants.
If the number of participants falls below the minimum requirement, the tour will be cancelled with a full refund, or participants may choose to join another available program.

Cancellation Policy

Up to 45 days before the tour date – no cancellation fee
30 days before the tour date – 75% of tour price
14 days before the tour date – 100% of tour price
Refunds are calculated based on the date we receive your written cancellation

5. Discover the Wonders of Prehistoric Java: The Bumiayu-Semedo Tour

2 Days / 1 Night tour

Code: BRIN

PRICE: Free

Point of Contact

Nia Marniati Etie Fajari

National Research and Innovation Agency

Email: niam002@brin.go.id / diang.hayami@gmail.com

OVERVIEW

This is a two day trip. The first day is mostly spent on the road, travelling from Yogyakarta to Bumiayu (6-7.5 hours drive), with one field visit at one of BRIN’s excavation sites. You will be staying for one night in a BRIN field facility, expect a modest air-conditioned room with shared toilets. The second day includes a trip to Semedo Museum (2-3 hours drive from Bumiayu), and travel back to Yogyakarta.

Bumiayu Site is one of the archaeological and palaeontological areas in Brebes Regency, Central Java Province. This area contains archaeological remains important to the study of environmental evolution and prehistoric life on the Island of Java. Although its archaeological and geological potential was recognised in 1925, intensive research only began in 2025 through the Research and Innovation Program. Bumiayu Site covers an area of approximately 67 km² and contains abundant faunal fossils, contributing more than 70% to the biostratigraphic framework of Java Island. This makes it a key location for reconstructing environmental history, faunal evolution, and the presence of early humans around 1–2 million years ago.

Semedo Site is a premier prehistoric area in Kedungbanteng, Tegal Regency, Central Java, preserving Pleistocene remnants including Homo erectus skull fragments and Palaeolithic stone tools, alongside. The site also contains 2.4-million-year-old deep-sea evidence such as fossilised shark teeth, corals, mollusks, and sea turtles, now curated at the modern Semedo Museum. Located approximately 26 kilometers, 1 hour drive east of downtown Tegal via the Suradadi Pantura route, this educational destination offers an immersive journey through natural evolution and early human history, making it the perfect highlight for both school excursions and general tour programs.

DAY 1: Yogyakarta - Bumiayu

Yogyakarta – Kali Glagah River, Bumiayu: 350 km (6-7.5 hours drive)

Kali Glagah River – The Ancient Coastline & The Great Marine-Land Transition

Kali Glagah River in the vicinity of BRIN’s excavation site (Photo credit: RIIM Bumiayu, 2025)

Field observation at Kaliglagah-Kalibiuk formation boundaries (Photo credit: RIIM Bumiayu, 2025)

Pedes River – Kaliglagah Context & Archaeological Background

The Pedes River stop introduces visitors to the broader landscape context of the Kaliglagah Formation (~2.1 to 1.5 million years ago) and explains why this area became a hotspot for scientific research. Visitors will explore exposed riverbanks featuring alternating layers of alluvial, river sandstones, and dark clay beds—sediment patterns that reflect ancient river flows. The tour guide will highlight how these rapidly deposited sediments created ideal conditions for fossil preservation, setting the stage for why researchers singled out this area for major paleontological and archaeological surveys.

Excavation Units – Java’s Earliest Vertebrates

At the excavation units, visitors will get a firsthand look at modern research methods and recent discoveries regarding Java's oldest terrestrial mammals. The site walk reveals how researchers carefully recover fossil remains trapped within specific Early Pleistocene layers. Recent updates on ongoing excavations will be discussed alongside key specimens previously uncovered in these horizons—including the mastodon (Sinomastodon bumiayuensis), early stegodonts, giant land tortoises (Megalochelys), and ancestral hippos (Hexaprotodon)—showing how these ancient animal migrations via the Sunda Shelf laid the ecological foundation for early hominin habitation in Java.

BRIN’s excavation units at Glagah Sector (Photo credit: RIIM Bumiayu, 2025)

Experience the heart of archaeological and paleontological research at BRIN's Bumiayu Field Station, a multidisciplinary research facility designed to support scientific discovery, education, and field-based learning. More than just a research station, it offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience how Indonesia's prehistoric heritage is studied, preserved, and interpreted.

Take a guided tour through the station's specialized facilities, including the fossil and archaeological storage repository, 3D documentation laboratory, conservation laboratory, archaeobotany laboratory, and other research spaces where scientists process, analyze, and preserve invaluable cultural and natural heritage collections. These facilities provide an insightful behind-the-scenes look at the scientific work that transforms field discoveries into new knowledge.

Complete your experience with an overnight stay in the Field Station's comfortable dormitory, thoughtfully designed to accommodate up to 40 students and 45 researchers. Whether participating in a field course, research program, or educational visit, the Bumiayu Field Station offers a collaborative environment where learning, research, and cultural exchange come together in the heart of Central Java's prehistoric landscape.

BRIN’s KSL (Kawasan Stasiun Lapangan/ Field Station Facility) Bumiayu (Photo credit: RIIM Bumiayu, 2025)

Palaeobotany lab at KSLa Bumiayu (Photo credit: RIIM Bumiayu, 2025)

DAY 2: Museum Purbakala Bumiayu - Museum Semedo - Yogyakarta

Begin your day with a signature local breakfast served in our garden, then set off for an inspiring journey through Central Java's prehistoric museums.

KSL BRIN Bumiayu – Museum Purbakala Bumiayu: 12 km (40 minutes drive)

Step into the ancient world at The Museum Purbakala Bumiayu, where millions of years of Earth's history come to life through one of Indonesia's most significant paleontological collections. Situated near the Bumiayu fossil sites in Central Java, the museum offers a captivating journey into the region's rich geological past and the remarkable prehistoric life that once thrived there.

The Museum Purbakala Bumiayu is a community-driven museum established through the initiative of local people dedicated to the preservation, research, and promotion of prehistoric and historical heritage discovered in the Bumiayu region. Explore an exceptional collection of vertebrate fossils, including ancient elephants, rhinoceroses, hippopotamuses, crocodiles, turtles, and other extinct fauna that inhabited the Bumiayu Basin during the Pleistocene. These invaluable discoveries provide crucial insights into the evolution of tropical ecosystems, the diversity of Southeast Asia's prehistoric megafauna, and the dynamic geological history that shaped the island of Java. Bumiayu Prehistoric Museum invites visitors to journey back in time, uncover the story of life in prehistoric Java, and gain a deeper appreciation of the natural heritage preserved beneath the landscapes of Central Java.

The Museum Purbakala Bumiayu (photo credit: The Museum Purbakala Bumiayu 2025)

Step into the past and uncover the remarkable story of prehistoric Indonesia at Museum Semedo, the only prehistoric museum nestled within the teak forests of Tegal, Central Java. Surrounded by a unique natural landscape, the museum offers an exceptional opportunity to explore Indonesia's rich geological, paleontological, and archaeological heritage. Discover an extraordinary collection of fossils, including Homo erectus, Gigantopithecus blacki, Stegodon pygmy semedoensis, and a diverse range of prehistoric artifacts. These invaluable collections provide compelling evidence for understanding the evolution of ancient environments, early humans, and prehistoric life in Southeast Asia.

More than a museum, Museum Semedo serves as a leading center for prehistoric education and research, supporting scientific discovery, public learning, and the preservation of Indonesia's cultural and natural heritage. Its thoughtfully curated exhibitions take visitors on a captivating journey through environmental change, human evolution, and cultural development. Through immersive displays and authentic collections, Museum Semedo invites visitors to travel back millions of years and gain a deeper appreciation of humanity's shared past.

Museum Semedo – UGM, Yogyakarta: 282 km (4.5 hours drive)

Sit back and relax as you journey back to Yogyakarta. Enjoy the scenic drive through picturesque farmland and rural villages, where the ever-changing landscapes offer a glimpse into everyday life along Java's southern corridor. As the countryside unfolds outside your window, take in the tranquil views and the stories of the communities that have long shaped this region.

Following the conclusion of the tour, rest of the day at your own arrangement.

Museum Semedo (Photo credit: Museum Semedo, 2025)

INCLUSIONS

Meals as specified in the itinerary
One-night accommodation at the BRIN Bumiayu Field Station (KSL BRIN) Dormitory
Complimentary mineral water and light snacks throughout the tour
Transportation by comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
All entrance fees and donations as specified in the itinerary
Tour guide

NOT INCLUDED

Visa arrangements
International and domestic flights
Meals other than mentioned in itinerary
Camera and video permit
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Tipping for driver and crew

Terms and Conditions

Maximum participant for this tour 30 pax

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