MTCMedia – Malang. Indonesia’s cultural heritage is a tapestry of remarkable beauty, intricately woven with diverse traditions, art forms, and historical landmarks. Thousands of temples scattered across the archipelago stand as inspiring treasures, each bearing unique architectural styles and rich historical narratives. Sumberawan Temple exemplifies this cultural wealth. Located in the village of Sumberawan, Singosari District, Malang Regency, East Java, Sumberawan Temple is a small Buddhist temple.
A brief description of the history of the temple
The temple dates back to the late 14th century during the Majapahit era, a significant period in Indonesian history known for its extensive empire and cultural achievements. Buddhist monks likely constructed the temple as a place of worship and meditation.
Architecture of Sumberawan Temple
Unlike many other temples in Indonesia, this temple does not feature elaborate carvings or towering structures. The temple, made of andesite stone, takes the shape of a stupa with a relatively simple and modest design. The stupa is situated in a serene environment, surrounded by lush greenery and near a natural spring, which adds to its tranquil atmosphere. This natural spring is the reason behind the temple’s name, “Sumberawan,” where the view around the temple includes a lake.
Surrounding environment of the temple. Picture : @rizdhani 
Surrounding environment of the temple. Picture : Avirista Midaada
Location and Accessibility of the Temple
The temple is about 6 kilometers from the town of Singosari, making it relatively easy to access from Malang city. Visitors typically reach the temple via a short walk from the nearby village, passing through scenic rice fields and rural landscapes.
Local Buddhists consider this temple an important site and often visit as pilgrims, especially during significant Buddhist festivals. The sacred natural spring near the temple is believed to have purifying qualities. Tourists interested in exploring historical sites and experiencing the area’s natural beauty frequently visit the temple. Efforts to preserve the temple and its surroundings ensure it remains an important cultural heritage site for future generations.
Overall, Sumberawan Temple stands as a testament to the rich historical and cultural tapestry of Indonesia, offering visitors a glimpse into the country’s Buddhist past amidst a peaceful natural setting.
