The Geographic of Yogyakarta

The Special Region of Yogyakarta located in Southern part of Central Java, is considered to be one of the most densely populated areas in the world. Covering only about 3.100 square kilometers (2,4 % of the total area of Java), this same area constitutes more 5% of population. Out of the entire Region more than 50% (1,754 square km) is used for agricultural purposes, leaving approximately 25 % for residential purposes and the remaining 17% for ceads and forests.

The region covering the Special Region of Yogyakarta enjoys a tropical climate with temperate varying from 70 Fahrenheit to 98 Fahrenheit. Fortunately, Yogyakarta receives favorable coasted breezed from the South Seas and does not suffer from as the usual high humidity temperatures that most tropical cities do. In fact it can be a bit chilly in the evenings and many visitors have found themselves pleasantly surprised by this variation in temperature.

The seasons are divided into two: the dry season from March to September and the wet season from October to March. The dry season is characterized by almost a complete absence of rainfall, while the rainy season receives almost daily showers, sometime light dressles and sometime torrid downpours accompanied by lightning and thunder. Whatever the season, Yogyakarta enjoys sunshine year around, making even the rainy season a pleasant time for vacation. The average total rainfall for much of the area is more than 20.000 mm. Even in the wet season, however, much of the rain falls in short periods.

Yogyakarta (also called Jogja) is a special territory headed by a Governor which is the only one in Indonesia not appointed by election. During the revolution period Yogyakarta was the capital of the Republic Indonesia from January 4, 1946 through December 27, 1949.

Yogya’s population is around three millions and mostly Moslem. Though it is not consider as one among the rich provinces in Indonesia the Yogyanese average life expectancy is the highest a lot of Yogyanese consider life on earth is a temporary obligation for human being. A way of life toward the eternal life after deceased. They hold in high esteem harmonious and peaceful life derived from ancestor’s philosophy and tradition and these might explain their long life.

Ancient monument, temple and other archeological remains spread out in the realm of Yogyakarta and its surrounding indicate Yogya is the cradle of Javanese civilization. The Kraton (Sultan’s Palace) is still dominating as a centre of tradition and court art that attract visitors.

The drawing power of Yogya attracts many students from other parts of Republic to come studying. Visitors and modern life affects Yogyakarta, still it is not affecting the root of their life style and tradition. The Yogyakartanese remain sort spoken and friendly.