The Muaro Jambi Temple complex remains a sought-after destination for tourists, attracting visitors from near and far. The site boasts over 80 temple ruins, offering a glimpse into the historical significance of this educational center dating back to the IX-XV century AD. Situated in close proximity to Jambi city center, the temple complex is easily accessible via well-maintained roads, making it convenient for travelers to explore this cultural gem. Whether visitors are interested in history, culture, social aspects, or religion, the Muaro Jambi Temple complex provides a rich experience for all.
Tourists can immerse themselves in the beauty of the temple ruins while also indulging in a relaxing moment with a cup of coffee available within the complex. This serene setting offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and leisure, making it a versatile destination for travelers seeking a well-rounded experience.
Candi Muaro Jambi is the largest Hindu-Buddhist temple complex in Southeast Asia, covering an area of 3981 hectares. It is believed to be a legacy of the Sriwijaya Kingdom and the Malay Kingdom. Situated in the Maro Sebo District, Muaro Jambi Regency, Jambi, Indonesia, along the banks of the Batang Hari River, approximately 26 kilometers east of Jambi City. The coordinates are South 01⁰ 28'3" East 103⁰ 40'04". The temple is estimated to date back to the 7th - 12th centuries AD.
Muara Jambi Temple is the largest and best-preserved temple complex on the island of Sumatra. Since 2009, the Muaro Jambi Temple Complex has been nominated to UNESCO to become a World Heritage Site. The temple complex is a significant historical and cultural site, showcasing the rich heritage of the region and attracting visitors from around the world to marvel at its architectural and artistic beauty.
The intricate carvings and structures of Candi Muaro Jambi reflect the advanced craftsmanship and religious significance of the ancient civilizations that once thrived in the region. As a potential UNESCO World Heritage Site, the temple complex holds great importance in preserving and promoting the history and heritage of Indonesia. Visitors to Candi Muaro Jambi can immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of the past, gaining insights into the spiritual and artistic achievements of the ancient kingdoms that left behind this remarkable architectural marvel.
The Muaro Jambi temple complex is situated on the ancient embankment of the Batanghari River. Covering an area of 12 square kilometers, it stretches over 7 kilometers in length and spans 260 hectares along the river's path. The site contains 110 temples, most of which are still in the form of earth mounds (menapo) that have not been excavated. Within this temple complex, there are also several Hindu-influenced structures.
In addition to the temples, the complex also features ancient man-made canals or channels, ponds for water storage, and earth mounds that contain ancient brick structures. At least 85 menapo are currently owned by the local residents within the complex. Apart from the architectural remains, various artifacts have been discovered, including statues of prajnaparamita, dwarapala, gajahsimha, stone pedestals, stone mortars, bronze gongs with Chinese inscriptions, Buddhist mantras written on gold paper, foreign ceramics, pottery, large bronze pots, Chinese currency, beads, inscribed and illustrated bricks, fragments of stone statues, precious stones, as well as iron and bronze fragments. In addition to the temples, small man-made mounds (small mountains) have also been found in the complex. The local community refers to these small mountains as Bukit Sengalo or Candi Bukit Perak.
The Muaro Jambi archaeological complex was first reported in 1824 by an English lieutenant named S.C. Crooke, who conducted mapping of the river basin for military purposes. It was not until 1975 that the Indonesian government began serious restoration efforts, led by R. Soekmono. Based on ancient Javanese script found on several plates, epigraphy expert Boechari concluded that the remains date back to the 7th-12th centuries AD. Currently, only nine buildings have been restored on this site, and all of them have Buddhist influences. These nine temples are Candi Kotomahligai, Kedaton, Gedong Satu, Gedong Dua, Gumpung, Tinggi, Telago Rajo, Kembar Batu, and Candi Astano.
Among the many discoveries, Junus Satrio Atmodjo concluded that the area was once inhabited and served as a meeting place for various cultures. Beads from Persia, China, and India have been found, suggesting a diverse cultural influence. The Mahayana Tantrayana Buddhist religion is believed to have been the majority religion, as evidenced by the discovery of plates inscribed with "wajra" on several temples, forming a mandala.