Things to do in Pakualaman

Activities, attractions and tours

Cyclo is still quite popular in Yogya #localgem
Cyclo is still quite popular in Yogya #localgem
Love it or hate it Yogyakarta and its surrounds are not a place to skip.  This bustling city has several places to visit within the city limits and many outside. Among them, Yogya is the jumping-off point to visit the UNESCO site of Borodubur.  More details: http://turtlestravel.com/dont-skip-yogyakarta-indonesia/
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This is a traditional game which I enjoyed playing a lot as a child. Recently I found them used in hotels and restaurants in Indonesia either for decor purposes or to contain snacks. Brings back lots of good memories! It is known as Congkak in Indonesia.


The oldest mancala game boards were found in a ruined fort of Roman Egypt and date back to the 4th century AD. The game was likely introduced to Southeast Asia by Indian in the 15th century. Ancient Tamils during their Chola expedition and Trading with Indonesian Islands ( Sumetra, Java ) took this game there. In Indonesia, this is known as Congkak or Congklakin. It is believed to have spread throughout Malay world through merchants via Malacca, an important trading post at that time. In the early days, it was thought that this game was for the king and family and palace residents, however later it spread to the general population of the kingdom. Beside the Indian Peranakan also enjoy playing Congkak.

In Java, the term "dakon stone" refers to the similarly pitmarked stones from the bronze-Iron Age period of Indonesia. These stones have rows of 4 or 5 cup-shaped holes and two holes at each end, a formation which has much in common with that of the similarly named game in Java. This prehistoric dakon stones is unrelated to the game and were probably employed in ceremonies to propitiate ancestors. Such stones can be found around Java.

The current Malaysian Ringgit 10 sen coin has a Congkak board on the reverse in recognition of the long history of congkak in Malaysia.

Source: Wikipedia

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What to do in Pakualaman


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Frequently asked questions

Is Pakualaman worth visiting?
Whether you're coming to discover the cultural highlights and local charm or sample regional foods and go on outdoor adventures, there are many things to do in Pakualaman.
How do I spend a day in Pakualaman?
Kick your day off with a visit to Gembira Loka Zoo and Palace of Yogyakarta. Then, check out different areas of Pakualaman for local restaurants and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Pakualaman?
The top tourist attraction in Pakualaman is Gembira Loka Zoo, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Pakualaman?
You can easily tick off top sights like Gembira Loka Zoo, Palace of Yogyakarta and Affandi Museum with a three-day break in Pakualaman. On average, most travelers book two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a bit longer and check out Yogyakarta.
Is Pakualaman a walkable city?
It all comes down to what you'd like to do and see in Pakualaman. Several sights, such as Gembira Loka Zoo and Palace of Yogyakarta, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Pakualaman's best neighborhoods, Central Yogyakarta is 2 kilometers away from downtown, while Malioboro is 2 kilometers away from the center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Pakualaman with kids?
Planning what to do in Pakualaman with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're taking a trip with little ones or teenagers, there are lots of family-friendly attractions to keep them busy here.

What to do in Pakualaman for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or thrill seeker, there are loads of things to do in Pakualaman for adults including Malioboro Street and Masjid Jogokariyan.
Are there free things to do in Pakualaman?
One of the easiest ways to learn about free things to do in Pakualaman is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on cool neighborhoods, parks and other highlights you can visit without opening your wallet. Museum Sasmitaloka Panglima Besar Jenderal Sudirman is one sight that doesn't have an admission fee.