Your Complete Guide to Waisak 2025 at Borobudur Temple

Waisak 2025 isn’t just a major celebration for Buddhists, it’s an experience that draws in people from all walks of life.

Every year, thousands of devotees gather at Borobudur Temple to mark the sacred Tri Suci Waisak, the most important Buddhist festival of the year.

The highlight? The mesmerizing lantern release that lights up the skies over Borobudur, an event that attracts travelers and spiritual seekers alike.

Mark your calendar: Waisak will be celebrated on May 12, 2025, with a public holiday following on May 13. It’s the perfect long weekend to step out of your routine and soak up a truly unforgettable cultural experience.

Whether you’re joining the spiritual rituals or just want to witness the magic of Waisak firsthand, here’s everything you need to know.

5 Things to Know Before You Go to Borobudur for Waisak 2025

The Borobudur Lantern Festival 2025 Happens on May 12

Just like in previous years, the national Waisak celebrations will be centered at Borobudur Temple. One of the biggest draws is the Lantern Festival, where thousands of Buddhists, and visitors from around the world, come together to release lanterns in a symbolic gesture of hope and peace.

The Main Waisak 2025 Schedule

There’s more to Waisak than the lantern release. Here’s a quick look at the key events lined up for this year:

• May 10-11: Free medical services and community outreach at Zone 2 of Borobudur Temple.
• May 10: The sacred Dharma Fire will be collected from Mrapen, Grobogan, followed by a blessing ceremony at Mendut Temple.
• May 11: Holy Water will be drawn from Umbul Jumprit, Temanggung, and consecrated at Mendut Temple.
• May 12: The Waisak Parade—a 3 km procession from Mendut Temple to Borobudur, usually held from midday to late afternoon.
• May 12: Lantern Release in two sessions: 4:30 PM and 8:00 PM.
• May 12: The official Waisak moment at exactly 11:55:29 PM.
• May 13: The Pradaksina ritual, a mindful walking meditation around Borobudur Temple as an act of spiritual devotion.

How to Get Tickets for the Lantern Festival

Tickets for the Borobudur Lantern Festival are typically sold online via Borobudur Temple’s official website. If you're a practicing Buddhist, you can secure access through donations via affiliated religious organizations.

Tickets are limited for both devotees and tourists, so it’s smart to keep a close eye on the official ticket platforms or start planning for next year if you miss out.

What to Know Before You Arrive

Since this is a religious event, there are a few important guidelines to follow:

• Dress respectfully. The dress code is all-white attire—no shorts, short skirts, sleeveless tops, or anything see-through.
• Be punctual. Your ticket is valid only for the specific session you’ve booked. Seniors, people with disabilities, and expectant mothers can access VIP lanes.
• Lantern sharing. Each lantern is meant for 4–5 people, so you’ll be teamed up. Ask event staff for instructions on grouping and how to release your lantern.
• No colored drinks or snacks. If you need water, bring your own clear bottle filled with plain water.
• Keep things peaceful. Respect the sacred atmosphere—avoid getting too close to monks or disturbing the rituals.

Pro Tips for a Smooth Trip to the Lantern Festival

Renting a car is hands-down the best way to get to Borobudur, especially if you’re coming with family or a group. TRAC’s car rental service in Yogyakarta is a reliable option to keep your trip hassle-free throughout the Waisak festivities.

Not familiar with the Magelang/Borobudur area? Opt for a car with a driver so you can sit back and enjoy the ride while your driver handles the route. If you’re more of an explorer at heart, a self-drive option gives you full freedom to roam around.

If you’re coming from Jakarta or Surabaya, check out TRAC’s “Jalan-jalan” tour bus promo, it’s a fantastic way to not only catch the Waisak celebration but also enjoy a long weekend getaway with friends or family.

Easily book TRAC car rental and tourism bus rental services on the homepage of the website or TRACtoGo application. Download the app on Playstore and Appstore.

Get tourist destination references and other interesting offer information by subscribing to the TRAC newsletter, and follow TRAC social media on Instagram @trac_astra, Facebook TRAC-Astra Rent a Car and Twitter (X) @TRACastra.

Whatever the track, just use TRAC!