Indonesia eyes Prambanan Shiva Festival as tourism flagship
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian government is seeking to position the Prambanan Shiva Festival as a flagship national tourism event, highlighting Prambanan Temple as a world-class cultural and spiritual destination.
Deputy Minister of Tourism Ni Luh Puspa said on Monday that the festival is expected to help increase domestic and international tourist visits.
"From a tourism perspective, the Prambanan Shiva Festival is projected to become a flagship program capable of boosting tourist arrivals," she said in a statement.
She noted that the festival, which culminates in the Mahashivaratri celebration on February 15–16, is not only a religious observance but also a tourism event that can support the local economic ecosystem.
Mahashivaratri marks the peak of the festival series, which has been running since January 17.
The holy day for Hindus is commemorated through rituals and cultural activities reflecting spiritual values, harmony, and tolerance.
One of the main events is the Dipa Festival, during which thousands of oil lamps (dipa) are lit and accompanied by the sound of damaru instruments in the temple complex.
Puspa said global tourism trends are shifting toward quality and sustainable tourism, with travelers seeking meaningful experiences and closer connections with local culture and communities.
She added that Prambanan Temple, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991 and recognized as a masterpiece of ninth-century Hindu architecture, holds strong potential for spiritual and pilgrimage tourism.
According to available data, the global Hindu population has grown by around 12 percent over the past decade, with the majority residing in the Asia-Pacific region.
This development underscores the importance of managing sacred and cultural heritage sites such as Prambanan not only as tourist attractions but also as spiritual spaces, she said.
"We hope events like the Prambanan Shiva Festival can enliven Prambanan Temple not only as a monument, but as a living heritage site whose sacredness must be preserved," Puspa added.
