The temple was found by accident when a farmer hit a buried stone block with his hoe while tilling his land.
Archaeologists believe the temple was buried by volcanic material from Mount Merapi between the 10th and 11th centuries.
The sunken design is rare for Javanese temples, as most ancient structures in the region were built on rising ground or hillsides.
The temple is constructed primarily from white andesite stone, which distinguishes it from the darker volcanic rock seen in other nearby temples.
The main temple complex is surrounded by two concentric walls, an outer and inner fence, both of which were found during excavations.
The site contains a stone turtle sculpture, which in Hindu iconography represents the foundation of the world.
Sambisari Temple is an underground Hindu temple complex located approximately 6.5 meters below the current ground level. Discovered in 1966 by a local farmer, the site remained buried for centuries under volcanic ash, likely from a massive eruption of Mount Merapi. The main temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and features a large lingam and yoni within the inner sanctum. The surrounding complex includes a main temple and three smaller ancillary shrines known as perwara temples. Unlike many Indonesian temples built on elevated plateaus, this site was constructed in a sunken courtyard, which protected it from weathering and looting. Stone carvings of deities, including Agastya, Ganesha, and Durga, remain visible on the exterior walls. The site underwent a multi-year reconstruction process to restore the original structural integrity of the stone blocks. Today, the temple sits within a manicured garden setting that contrasts with its deep subterranean position.
From the top of the embankment looking down into the courtyard to capture the contrast between the temple and the surrounding landscape.
Bring an umbrella or a hat, as there is almost no natural shade within the excavated sunken pit.
Wear footwear with good grip, as the stone steps leading down into the temple site can be steep and potentially slippery.
Visit during the early morning to avoid the intense heat reflected off the surrounding stone walls.
Avoid visiting during the height of the rainy season when the sunken courtyard can occasionally experience minor flooding or drainage issues.
Dress modestly as this is a sacred religious site; cover shoulders and knees. Refrain from climbing on the temple walls or statues.
