TAMAN Wisata Candi Borobudur, Prambanan dan Ratu Boko (TWCBP&RB), which manages the Borobudur, Prambanan, and Ratu Boko temple complexes in Yogjakarta, is looking to hike the access fee to the summit of Borobudur to around US$20 per person, starting June 1.
The management has been charging US$15 per international visitor, and between 12,500 rupiah (US$1.40) and 25,000 rupiah per domestic visitor to climb the temple, depending on seasonality.
TWCBP&RB marketing director Agus Canny said: “We are still working on (implementing) the (new) pricing. With Ankor Wat as (our) benchmark, we are looking at around US$20 (per climb), which will give visitors access to the top of the temple.”
“A smaller entrance fee will be introduced for access to the temple complex and information centre,” he added. “(Visitors) can still enjoy the temple, take pictures and get information on Borobudur, but will not be allowed to climb the temple.”
Discounted student group pricing will still be available once the changes take effect, but only on a single student-designated day each week, compared to everyday currently.
According to Canny, the new pricing policy was a result of a two-year study on how TWCBP&RB could better manage the UNESCO World Heritage site, and keep within its maximum load capacity of between 5,000-10,000 pax at any one time.
“We also received complaints from international travellers on the different pricing, as if we are discriminating against them,” he said.
Canny acknowledged that Borobudur might see a drop in arrivals, especially from the domestic market in the beginning.
