Best Time To Visit Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta in January – Warm, Wet, and Culturally Rich 🌧️🏯

January in Yogyakarta falls within the peak of the rainy season, characterized by high humidity and frequent downpours. Despite the wet conditions, the city offers a vibrant cultural scene and lush landscapes for those willing to embrace the elements.

☀️ Weather at a Glance

• 🌡️ Temperature: Daytime highs average around 30°C (86°F), with nighttime lows near 23°C (73°F).

• 🌧️ Rainfall: January typically experiences heavy rainfall, with an average of 23 rainy days accumulating approximately 390 mm (15.36 inches) of precipitation.

• 💦 Humidity: Expect extremely high humidity levels, often exceeding 80%.

🌴 What’s Great in January?

• ✔️ Lush Scenery: The abundant rainfall rejuvenates the region’s greenery, enhancing the beauty of rice terraces and natural landscapes.
• ✔️ Cultural Performances: Indoor cultural events, such as traditional dance performances and art exhibitions, continue unaffected by the weather.

🚨 But Here’s the Catch…

• ❌ Frequent Rain: Heavy and consistent rainfall can limit outdoor activities and sightseeing opportunities.
• ❌ High Humidity: The combination of heat and moisture can be uncomfortable, especially for those unaccustomed to tropical climates.

🌍 So, Is January a Good Time to Visit Yogyakarta?

While January’s wet season presents challenges for outdoor activities, it offers a unique perspective of Yogyakarta’s vibrant culture and lush landscapes. Travelers interested in cultural immersion and indoor attractions will find plenty to explore.

However, if outdoor adventures and clear skies are a priority, consider visiting during the drier months between May and September.

➡️ Related article: Embracing the Rain: Indoor Activities and Cultural Experiences in Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta in February – Wet, Humid, and Unpredictable ☔🏯

February is deep in Yogyakarta’s rainy season, meaning frequent downpours, high humidity, and occasional flooding in low-lying areas. While the landscapes are lush and the crowds are low, the unpredictable weather can make outdoor exploration tricky. If you plan to visit, be ready for rain and focus on indoor activities.

☀️ Weather at a Glance

• 🌡️ Temperature: 24-30°C (75-86°F) – Warm but very humid
• 🌧️ Rain: High (15-22 rainy days, often heavy)
• 💨 Humidity: 85-90% – Sticky and uncomfortable for long outdoor walks

🌴 What’s Great in February?

• ✔️ Lush, green landscapes – The rice fields and temples look stunning after the rain
• ✔️ Fewer tourists mean a quieter experience at Borobudur and Prambanan
• ✔️ Great time for cultural activities like batik-making, Javanese dance performances, and food tours

🚨 But Here’s the Catch…

• ❌ Frequent heavy rain can disrupt outdoor plans
• ❌ Flooding risk in certain areas, making travel inconvenient
• ❌ Very humid conditions can feel uncomfortable for long sightseeing days

🌍 So, Is February a Good Time to Visit Yogyakarta?

Not really. While it’s still possible to enjoy cultural experiences, the frequent rain makes temple visits and outdoor adventures less enjoyable. If you’re flexible and don’t mind shifting plans, you can still have a good time. Otherwise, wait until the drier months from May onwards.

➡️ Related Article: Yogyakarta’s Cultural Side – The Best Indoor Experiences for Rainy Days

Yogyakarta in March – Rainy, Humid, and Unpredictable ☔🏯

March is still part of Yogyakarta’s wet season, meaning frequent rain showers and high humidity. While the landscapes are beautifully green, outdoor activities can be challenging due to sudden downpours. If you’re planning to visit temples or hike, be prepared for weather disruptions.

☀️ Weather at a Glance

• 🌡️ Temperature: 24-31°C (75-88°F) – Warm but sticky due to humidity
• 🌧️ Rain: High (15-20 rainy days, often heavy in the afternoons)
• 💨 Humidity: 85-90% – Very humid, making outdoor exploration exhausting

🌴 What’s Great in March?

• ✔️ Lush scenery after months of rain – temples and rice fields look stunning
• ✔️ Fewer crowds at major attractions compared to peak season
• ✔️ Great time for cultural experiences like museums, batik workshops, and coffee tasting

🚨 But Here’s the Catch…

• ❌ Heavy rain can interrupt temple visits and outdoor sightseeing
• ❌ Flooding risk in low-lying areas
• ❌ High humidity makes hiking and long walks uncomfortable

🌍 So, Is March a Good Time to Visit Yogyakarta?

Not ideal. If you don’t mind rain and plan mostly indoor activities, you can still enjoy the city. But for outdoor adventures like Borobudur, Merapi hiking, or countryside exploration, March is too unpredictable. Wait for the drier months starting in May.

➡️ Related Article: Best Rainy-Day Activities in Yogyakarta – What to Do When It Pours ☔

Yogyakarta in April – A Transition to Dry Season with Lingering Showers ☀️🌧️

April sits right on the edge of Yogyakarta’s rainy and dry seasons, meaning you’ll still get occasional showers, but they’re less intense than in previous months. The humidity starts to drop, and the city’s landscapes are still lush from the recent rains.

☀️ Weather at a Glance

• 🌡️ Temperature: 24-32°C (75-90°F) – Warm, with cooling breezes in the evenings
• 🌧️ Rain: Moderate (8-12 rainy days, usually short afternoon showers)
• 💨 Humidity: 75-85% – Still high but becoming more manageable

🌴 What’s Great in April?

• ✔️ Lush landscapes from the tail end of the rainy season – perfect for photography
• ✔️ Fewer tourists at major attractions like Borobudur and Prambanan
• ✔️ Comfortable weather for cultural activities like batik workshops and food tours
• ✔️ Better hiking conditions as trails begin to dry up after months of rain

🚨 But Here’s the Catch…

• ❌ Afternoon showers can still disrupt outdoor plans – start your day early
• ❌ Humidity remains high, making midday walks tiring

🌍 So, Is April a Good Time to Visit Yogyakarta?

Yes, but with some flexibility. While rain showers still happen, they are less intense, and the crowds are low. If you want a balance between lush scenery and manageable weather, April is a solid choice before the peak dry season begins in May.

➡️ Related Article: The Best Sunrise Spots in Yogyakarta – From Temples to Volcanoes 🌄

Yogyakarta in May – The Start of the Best Season to Visit ☀️🏯

May marks the beginning of Yogyakarta’s dry season, making it one of the best months to visit. The heavy rains of the past months subside, humidity levels drop, and the lush greenery from the rainy season remains. It’s the perfect time to explore temples, hike volcanoes, and enjoy cultural experiences without worrying about sudden downpours.

☀️ Weather at a Glance

• 🌡️ Temperature: 24-32°C (75-90°F) – Warm but comfortable with occasional breezes
• 🌧️ Rain: Low (5-8 rainy days, mostly light showers)
• 💨 Humidity: 70-80% – Lower than previous months, making sightseeing pleasant

🌴 What’s Great in May?

• ✔️ Perfect weather for visiting Borobudur and Prambanan without rain disruptions
• ✔️ Mount Merapi hikes are more enjoyable with clear skies and cooler air
• ✔️ Fewer tourists before the peak crowds arrive in June-July
• ✔️ Batik and cultural workshops in comfortable, dry conditions

🚨 But Here’s the Catch…

• ❌ The sun can get intense by midday – plan outdoor activities early in the morning
• ❌ Hotel prices start rising as peak season approaches

🌍 So, Is May a Good Time to Visit Yogyakarta?

Absolutely! May offers the best mix of great weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant landscapes. It’s the ideal month to experience Yogyakarta’s temples, culture, and outdoor adventures before the peak season rush.

➡️ Related Article: How to Plan the Perfect Yogyakarta Temple Tour Without the Crowds 🏯

Yogyakarta in June – Cultural Exploration with a Touch of Drizzle 🏯

June marks the beginning of the dry season in Yogyakarta, making it an excellent time to explore this cultural heart of Java without getting completely soaked. The pleasant weather creates perfect conditions for temple hopping and street food adventures.

☀️ Weather at a Glance

• 🌡️ Temperature: 23-30°C (73-86°F) – Warm days with comfortable evenings
• 🌧️ Rain: Minimal with occasional light showers
• 💨 Humidity: Moderate and manageable

🌴 What’s Great in June?

• ✔️ Perfect weather for exploring Borobudur and Prambanan temples without muddy paths
• ✔️ Clear skies for spectacular sunrise views at Borobudur
• ✔️ Comfortable temperatures for walking tours around the Sultan’s Palace and Water Castle
• ✔️ Lower humidity makes batik workshops and cooking classes more enjoyable

🚨 But Here’s the Catch…

• ❌ Beginning of high season means more tourists at major attractions
• ❌ Accommodation prices start to climb as Western summer holidays begin
• ❌ Occasional afternoon showers can still surprise you

🌍 So, Is June a Good Time to Visit Yogyakarta?

Absolutely! June offers the perfect balance of good weather and manageable crowds before the peak July-August rush. The reduced rainfall means you can fully enjoy the temples, Malioboro Street shopping, and volcanic landscapes without weather disruptions. Just pack a small umbrella for those surprise showers!

Related article: How to Spend the Perfect 3 Days in Yogyakarta – Temple and Food Itinerary

Yogyakarta in July – Dry Season Paradise with Cultural Richness 🏯

July marks the heart of the dry season in Yogyakarta, creating perfect conditions for exploring ancient temples and vibrant city life. When I visited last July with Lea, we enjoyed consistently sunny days that made temple-hopping at Borobudur and Prambanan absolutely magical.

☀️ Weather at a Glance

• 🌡️ Temperature: 22-32°C (72-90°F) – Warm days, cooler evenings especially in highland areas
• 🌧️ Rain: Minimal with occasional quick showers (2-4 rainy days)
• 💨 Humidity: Moderate to low, much more comfortable than wet season

🌴 What’s Great in July?

• ✔️ Perfect visibility for sunrise at Borobudur Temple (book in advance!)
• ✔️ Ideal conditions for exploring Jomblang Cave and Timang Beach without weather disruptions
• ✔️ Less mud on hiking trails to Mount Merapi or Pindul Cave
• ✔️ Vibrant street food scene along Malioboro Street with comfortable evening temperatures

🚨 But Here’s the Catch…

• ❌ Peak tourist season means more crowds at major attractions and slightly higher prices
• ❌ Midday sun can be intense – I got sunburned despite using SPF50
• ❌ Dust can be an issue on rural roads and some construction sites

🌍 So, Is July a Good Time to Visit Yogyakarta?

Absolutely yes! July offers the perfect weather balance for exploring both indoor cultural sites and outdoor natural wonders. Despite the higher tourist numbers, the reliable sunny days and comfortable evenings make it ideal for experiencing everything from ancient temples to volcanic landscapes. Just remember your sunscreen and start early!

Related article: 10 Hidden Gems in Yogyakarta Only Locals Know About

Yogyakarta in August – Perfect Cultural Exploration Without the Crowds 🏯

August brings ideal dry season conditions to Yogyakarta, making it one of my favorite times to visit this cultural heart of Java. After three visits during this month, I’ve found the warm, sunny days perfect for temple hopping and outdoor adventures without the heavy tourist crowds of June-July.

☀️ Weather at a Glance

• 🌡️ Temperature: 22-32°C (72-90°F) – Warm days with comfortable evenings
• 🌧️ Rain: Minimal (2-3 days average)
• 💨 Humidity: Moderate (60-70%)
• ☀️ Sunshine: 8-10 hours daily

🌴 What’s Great in August?

• ✔️ Clear skies for spectacular sunrise views at Borobudur Temple
• ✔️ Perfect climate for hiking Mount Merapi or exploring Prambanan
• ✔️ Less crowded than peak season (June-July)
• ✔️ Lower accommodation rates compared to July

🚨 But Here’s the Catch…

• ❌ Occasional dusty conditions due to dry weather
• ❌ Midday heat can be intense between 11am-3pm
• ❌ Some popular sites still have significant tourists

🌍 So, Is August a Good Time to Visit Yogyakarta?

Absolutely yes! August offers the perfect balance of good weather, manageable crowds, and slightly lower prices compared to peak season. It’s my top recommendation for first-time visitors who want to explore Yogyakarta’s cultural treasures comfortably.

Just remember to start your days early, seek shade during midday hours, and stay hydrated throughout your adventures. This approach has made my August explorations in Yogyakarta consistently memorable.

Yogyakarta in September – Perfect Balance of Dry Weather and Fewer Tourists 🏯

September marks the tail end of the dry season in Yogyakarta, offering some of the most pleasant weather conditions for exploring ancient temples and vibrant city streets. I spent a full week here last September with my friend Lea, and we enjoyed nearly perfect conditions for our Borobudur sunrise adventure.

☀️ Weather at a Glance

• 🌡️ Temperature: 23-32°C (73-90°F) – Warm days with comfortable evenings
• 🌧️ Rain: Low precipitation with only 4-6 rainy days on average
• 💨 Humidity: Moderate and manageable around 70%
• ☀️ Sunshine: 8-9 hours of sunshine daily

🌴 What’s Great in September?

• ✔️ Clear skies perfect for stunning sunrise views at Borobudur Temple
• ✔️ Ideal conditions for walking tours around the Sultan’s Palace and Water Castle
• ✔️ Pleasant evenings for enjoying street food along Malioboro Street
• ✔️ Shoulder season means fewer tourists than July-August peak months

🚨 But Here’s the Catch…

• ❌ Occasional brief afternoon showers might interrupt outdoor activities
• ❌ Some volcanic areas may have limited visibility due to morning mist
• ❌ Still relatively warm during midday hours (11am-2pm)

🛎️ Pro Tip

Book your sunrise tour to Borobudur at least 2 days in advance even in September. The special sunrise entry tickets sell out quickly, especially on weekends. Lea and I almost missed our chance because we waited until the last minute!

🌍 So, Is September a Good Time to Visit Yogyakarta?

Absolutely yes! September hits the sweet spot with dry weather, fewer crowds than peak season, and perfect conditions for temple exploration. It’s arguably the ideal month to visit Yogyakarta if you want to balance good weather with a more authentic local experience.

Related article you might enjoy: Mount Merapi Hiking Guide: Best Times and Safety Tips for Volcano Trekking in Java

Yogyakarta in October – Perfect Balance of Sunshine and Culture 🏯

October marks the start of the dry season in Yogyakarta, making it one of my favorite times to visit this cultural gem. The weather strikes that sweet spot – warm but not scorching, with decreasing rainfall that lets you explore ancient temples without getting drenched.

☀️ Weather at a Glance

• 🌡️ Temperature: 23-32°C (73-90°F) – Warm days with comfortable evenings
• 🌧️ Rain: Moderate (8-10 rainy days) – Typically short afternoon showers
• 💨 Humidity: Around 75% – High but manageable

🌴 What’s Great in October?

• ✔️ Perfect timing for temple hopping at Borobudur and Prambanan without excessive heat
• ✔️ Clearer skies for stunning sunrise photos at Borobudur (worth the 4am wake-up call!)
• ✔️ End-of-rainy-season sales at local markets and less crowded tourist spots
• ✔️ Lush green landscapes from previous months’ rainfall

🚨 But Here’s the Catch…

• ❌ Occasional unpredictable downpours can interrupt outdoor plans
• ❌ Some humidity remains, especially in the first half of October
• ❌ Slight increase in tourists as the dry season begins

🛎️ Pro Tip

Book sunrise tours to Borobudur at least 2-3 days in advance. When Lea and I visited last October, we almost missed out because tours were filling up quickly with the improving weather!

🌍 So, Is October a Good Time to Visit Yogyakarta?

Absolutely! October offers that perfect balance between good weather and manageable crowds. The occasional rain shower is a small price to pay for the lush landscapes and comfortable temperatures for temple exploration.

I’ve visited Jogja (as locals call it) three times, and October remains my top recommendation, especially for first-timers. Pack light clothes, a rain jacket, and plenty of memory cards for your camera!

Related Article: “The Ultimate Guide to Sunrise at Borobudur – Tips from a Frequent Visitor” 🌅

Yogyakarta in November – Perfect Cultural Escape as Rains Begin 🏯

November marks the transition to rainy season in Yogyakarta, but don’t let that deter you! I found this time offers a magical balance of manageable crowds and lush green landscapes surrounding ancient temples.

☀️ Weather at a Glance

• 🌡️ Temperature: 24-31°C (75-88°F) – Warm days with comfortable evenings
• 🌧️ Rain: Moderate rainfall, typically afternoon showers (12-15 rainy days)
• 💨 Humidity: Increasing to around 80-85%

🌴 What’s Great in November?

• ✔️ Fewer tourists at Borobudur and Prambanan temples
• ✔️ Vibrant green rice fields from early rainy season moisture
• ✔️ Perfect lighting for photography with dramatic clouds and clear mornings
• ✔️ Lower accommodation rates before peak holiday season

🚨 But Here’s the Catch…

• ❌ Afternoon downpours can interrupt sightseeing plans
• ❌ Higher humidity makes midday exploration more exhausting
• ❌ Some smaller outdoor attractions might close during heavy rains

🌍 So, Is November a Good Time to Visit Yogyakarta?

Absolutely yes, if you’re flexible with timing and don’t mind occasional rain showers. The refreshed landscapes, cooler temperatures, and thinner crowds create an authentic experience of Javanese culture and ancient wonders.

Remember to pack a light raincoat and plan indoor activities like batik workshops or museum visits for those inevitable rainy afternoons. The magical mornings make it all worthwhile!

Related Article: 5-Day Yogyakarta Itinerary: Temple Hopping Without the Crowds 🗿

Yogyakarta in December – Strong No for Outdoor Travel 🌧️🏯

December is peak rainy season in Yogyakarta, and honestly, it’s not the best time to visit. Heavy downpours, high humidity, and the risk of flooding make outdoor sightseeing difficult. If you’re planning to explore Borobudur, Prambanan, or nature spots, expect disruptions.

☀️ Weather at a Glance

• 🌡️ Temperature: 23-30°C (73-86°F) – Warm but very humid
• 🌧️ Rain: Heavy rainfall (20+ rainy days, frequent thunderstorms)
• 💨 Humidity: 85-90% – Feels sticky and uncomfortable for long walks

🌴 What’s Great in December?

• ✔️ Indoor cultural experiences like batik workshops and wayang kulit (shadow puppet) performances
• ✔️ Cozy cafés to enjoy Yogyakarta’s growing specialty coffee scene
• ✔️ Fewer tourists at museums and art galleries

🚨 But Here’s the Catch…

• ❌ Frequent, heavy rain makes outdoor sightseeing unpredictable
• ❌ Flooding risk in certain areas, affecting travel plans
• ❌ Poor visibility at Borobudur and Prambanan, diminishing the experience
• ❌ Sticky humidity makes walking outside exhausting

🌍 So, Is December a Good Time to Visit Yogyakarta?

No, not for outdoor travel. The rain will likely interfere with major sightseeing plans. If you must visit, stick to indoor attractions and cultural experiences. Otherwise, wait for the drier months between May and September.

➡️ Related Article: Rainy Day in Yogyakarta – Best Indoor Activities to Stay Dry ☔