Karmawibhangga Museum, also known as the Borobudur Museum, serves as an important complement to visiting Borobudur Temple. Located within the Borobudur Archaeological Park, this museum was established to collect a vast number of archaeological objects, especially the thousands of stone fragments that were removed during the major restoration of the temple in the 20th century, offering a behind-the-scenes view of this grand project.

A highlight of the museum is the exhibition detailing the Karmawibhangga reliefs, which were originally carved on the hidden base of Borobudur. Visitors can view original documentary photographs (160 panels) taken by Kassian Cephas before the base was bricked over again. These images depict the law of karma and the cycle of cause and effect, providing a deep philosophical understanding of the earliest level of the temple. In addition, there are displays of throne components from Buddha statues and other architectural elements whose original positions have not yet been identified.

The atmosphere in the museum is generally quiet and contemplative, making it a perfect resting place after exploring the temple. It provides an opportunity to closely observe the artwork, especially the unfinished Buddha statue that was once discovered inside the main stupa of Borobudur, which is another highly important and fascinating exhibit for those interested in archaeology and conservation. This site is often visited together with the Samudraraksa Museum, which displays a replica of the ancient Borobudur ship.

The museum’s focus on historical preservation and detailed craftsmanship makes it particularly appealing to historians, archaeologists, and conservation students. Exhibitions such as the stone fragments, the details of the three-tiered umbrella that once sat on top of the main stupa, and models of ancient musical instruments replicated from the reliefs provide physical evidence that helps viewers visualize the grandeur and complexity of Borobudur. Please take your time exploring this often-overlooked place to complete your understanding of the world’s greatest Buddhist monument and the profound effort made to preserve it, learning directly from the archaeological evidence.

• Walking: A 5-minute walk from Borobudur Temple, located within the Borobudur Archaeological Park.
• Car/Taxi: Drive to the Borobudur Temple area; parking is available within the park compound.
• Bus: Take a public bus from Jombor Terminal (Yogyakarta) to Borobudur Bus Terminal, then walk or take a becak (pedicab) to the park entrance.

Travel Planning:

• It is recommended to visit the museum after you have climbed the temple structure, as it is conveniently located along the exit route.
• Photography is permitted, but flash photography may be restricted in some exhibition areas
• You should allow at least 30–45 minutes to explore all the zones of the museum completely.

Admission Fee: Currently, tickets for foreign tourists are divided into two main types:

Temple Ground Ticket:

• Adult: 400,000 IDR
• Child (aged 3–10): 225,000 IDR / Under 3 years old: Free 
• Allows access to the park area, Karmawibhangga Museum, and other museums, but does not allow access to the upper structure of Borobudur Temple.

Temple Structure Ticket:

• Adult: 455,000 IDR
• Child (aged 3–10): 305,000 IDR / Under 3 years old: Free
• Allows access to the park area, Karmawibhangga Museum, and other museums, and also allows access to the main structure of Borobudur Temple.

Opening Hours:

• Open daily: 06:30 AM – 05:00 PM.
• Operating hours may be adjusted during public holidays or special events.