Gereja Ayam, or the ‘Chicken Church,’ is one of Central Java’s most unusual and beloved
landmarks. Located on the hills of Magelang near Borobudur, this massive prayer building is
shaped like a giant chicken — symbolizing peace and unity rather than any specific religion.
Originally built in the 1990s by Daniel Alamsjah, it was meant to serve as a house of prayer for
people of all faiths.
Today, Gereja Ayam has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors for its unique
architecture, inspiring story, and stunning panoramic views of Borobudur and the surrounding
mountains.
- Climb 🪜 to the top ⬆️ of the chicken’s crown 👑 for 360° views 🔭 of Borobudur 🛕 and Mount Merapi 🌋🤩
- Explore the prayer rooms 🙏 inside the structure ⛪ — open to all religions 🤝🕯️
- Learn about the history 📜 of the church 🏰 through local guides 🧑🏫 and displays 💡🧠
- Enjoy a local snack ☕ or coffee 🥐 at the small café 🍹 next to the church 😋👍
- From Borobudur 🛕: 10-minute drive 🚗 or 30-minute uphill walk 🚶♂️⛰️⏱️💨✅
- From Yogyakarta 🏘️: around 1 hour and 15 minutes ⏳ by car 🚕✅
- Combine your visit 🤝 with Punthuk Setumbu 🌄 for sunrise 🌅 before exploring the church ⛪🗺️✅
- Visit early ⏰ to avoid crowds 🤫 and enjoy the morning view 🌅😌
- Bring water 💧 and wear comfortable shoes 👟 — the path ⚠️ includes stairs 🪜🥾🎒
- Respect the prayer area 🙏 — it’s a spiritual site 🧘, not just a tourist attraction 📸🕯️
- Combine 🤝 with Borobudur 🛕 and Punthuk Setumbu 🌄 for a complete half-day trip 🗺️🎒✅
- 4:30 AM – Watch sunrise 🌅 at Punthuk Setumbu Hill ⛰️🧡✨
- 6:00 AM – Walk 🚶♂️ or drive 🚗 to Gereja Ayam ⛪ (Chicken Church) 💨
- 6:30 AM – Explore the unique architecture 🏰 and enjoy panoramic views 🔭👀🤩
- 8:00 AM – Have local breakfast 🍳☕ near Borobudur 🍜😋👋
