5 Unusual Things to Do in Jogja - Hidden Gems For You!

Jogja (short for Yogyakarta) is known for its majestic temples, rich culture, and artsy vibes. But if you’re the kind of traveler who craves something beyond the usual Borobudur sunrise and Malioboro shopping spree, this guide is for you. Let’s skip the mainstream tourist spots and dive into the unusual, thrilling, and slightly offbeat experiences that Jogja has to offer. let's se the Unusual things to do in Jogja here!

Unusual Things to Do in Jogja

Explore the Underground Mosque at Taman Sari

Taman Sari Water Castle is often hyped as an Instagrammable spot, but did you know it hides a mysterious underground mosque? This underground section, also known as Sumur Gumuling, is a circular, multi-level structure that looks straight out of an ancient sci-fi movie.

The architecture is mind-blowing. A central staircase with four pathways leading to different directions makes for an eerie yet stunning visual. The mosque was designed with impressive acoustics, allowing the imam’s voice to be heard clearly without any microphone (because, you know, ancient engineers were geniuses).

Getting here requires a little bit of exploration through narrow tunnels and passageways. But trust me, the moment you step into the underground mosque, you’ll feel like you've stumbled upon some lost civilization. It's quiet, a little spooky, and insanely photogenic.

Pro Tip:

• Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
• The tunnels are dimly lit, so use your phone flashlight if needed.
• Pair this visit with an exploration of the Taman Sari complex, which was once a royal bathing area for the sultan’s family (yeah, Jogja’s past royalty had serious spa goals).

Visit Mie Lethek Garuda Factory

Okay, let’s talk about food. But not just eating—how about visiting a noodle factory where everything is still made the old-school way? Welcome to Mie Lethek Garuda Factory, where Jogja’s famous brownish, hand-rolled, and sun-dried noodles come to life.

Mie Lethek literally translates to "ugly noodles," but don’t let the name fool you. These noodles are legendary, made from cassava flour and processed without preservatives or chemicals. What makes this experience unusual is that the entire production is done using traditional wooden machinery powered by buffaloes—yes, real buffaloes!

The process is fascinating to watch: the noodles are kneaded, stretched, and dried under the sun, just like in the olden days. After touring the factory, you must try a plate of mie lethek goreng (stir-fried lethek noodles) or the soupy version—both packed with smoky, earthy flavors that hit different from regular noodles.

Pro Tip:

• Wear comfy clothes; the factory can get hot.
• Support the local business by buying some mie lethek to take home.
• Don’t expect a fancy tour setup—this is an authentic, raw experience.

Traverse the Gondola at Timang Beach

This one’s for the adrenaline junkies. If you're up for an extreme ride, head to Timang Beach and take a gondola ride that will have your heart racing.

Now, this isn’t your regular amusement park gondola. This is a hand-operated, wooden gondola that dangles over the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean. Originally used by lobster fishermen to cross from the mainland to a rocky islet, the gondola is now a bucket-list-worthy ride for thrill-seekers.

The experience? Terrifying yet exhilarating. The waves below are wild, the winds are strong, and the creaky wooden gondola adds to the suspense. But once you’re on the other side, the view is breathtaking—rugged cliffs, deep blue waters, and the realization that you just did something insane.

Pro Tip:

• If you’re scared of heights, maybe skip this one.
• Hold on tight and don’t panic (easier said than done).
• There's also a suspension bridge if you prefer a slightly less heart-pounding crossing.

Participate in a Silver Crafting Workshop in Kota Gede

Kota Gede is famous for its silver craftsmanship, and instead of just shopping for jewelry, why not make your own? Many silver studios in the area offer workshops where you can design, mold, and create your own silver accessory.

The process is super hands-on. You’ll start with a rough piece of silver, shape it using traditional tools, and learn the intricate techniques that local artisans have mastered for centuries. Whether you want to craft a minimalist ring, a funky pendant, or even an intricate batik-inspired piece, the artisans will guide you through every step.

What’s cool about this experience is that you’re not just buying something—you’re creating a personal, one-of-a-kind souvenir. Plus, it’s oddly satisfying to work with molten silver and tiny hammers.

Pro Tip:

• Workshops usually last 2-3 hours, so plan accordingly.
• Prices vary depending on the silver weight, but expect to pay around IDR 200k - 500k.
• If you don’t have time for a full workshop, you can still watch artisans at work and buy handcrafted silver pieces.

Discover Bego Hill

For sunset chasers and nature lovers, Bego Hill (Bukit Bego) is an underrated spot with stunning panoramic views. Located in the hills of Imogiri, this place offers a dramatic landscape of lush greenery, rolling hills, and golden skies during sunset.

What makes Bego Hill unique is its raw, unpolished beauty. Unlike the more famous hill viewpoints in Jogja, this one remains relatively quiet, giving you a peaceful escape from the city noise. The name “Bego” comes from an old bulldozer (yes, a literal bulldozer) that was abandoned here long ago—locals started calling the hill after it, and the name just stuck.

Whether you’re here for photography, meditation, or just chilling with friends, Bego Hill is a refreshing break from the usual tourist crowd. The best part? No entrance fee—just good vibes and breathtaking views.

Pro Tip:

• Best visited during sunrise or sunset for insane views.
• Bring snacks and a mat if you plan to chill for a while.
• If you’re into astrophotography, this place is great for stargazing on clear nights.

Final Thoughts

Jogja is more than just temples and batik markets. If you’re willing to stray from the typical tourist path, you’ll find experiences that are raw, thrilling, and completely unique. Whether it’s exploring an underground mosque, riding a hand-pulled gondola over the ocean, or crafting your own silver jewelry, these unusual activities will give you stories to tell for years.

So, next time you’re in Jogja, ditch the travel clichés and embrace the unexpected by doing unsual things to do in jogja. Who knows? You might just discover your new favorite adventure. 🚀

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