Candi Sambisari

Candi Sambisari is a 9th-century Hindu temple that was discovered in 1966 buried about five metres underground. A farmer working on the land accidentally discovered the presence of this temple when his hoe hit a carved stone which was a part of the buried temple ruins. The temple is thought to have been buried by an eruption of volcanic ash from the nearby Mount Merapi.

We had to descend the flight of stairs on the western side to reach the central part of the temple. Despite centuries of wear and tear, subjected to earthquakes and buried for probably also for centuries, it is amazing that so much has remained intact. I remember feeling humbled yet excited walking down those steps and as we make our way to the center where the main temple is located.

The Sambisari complex was surrounded by a rectangular wall made from white stone. Only the north-eastern park of the outer layer of walls surrounding the temple has been excavated. The rest still is buried underground.

Ganesha Statue

The two stone statues at the base of the steps are believed to be Makara, a magical animal in Hindu mythology. Makara served as the vehicle(transport) of the River Goddess Ganga and the Sea God Varuna.

I have always been superstitious or maybe afraid of entering small dark chambers in shrines. I am uncertain if it is permitted and such confined spaces seemed sacred. I know that I could missed out knowing what lies inside.