Visitors’ Management in Borobudur Park, Indonesia

Abstract

Issues related to the Borobudur Temple are not merely regional concerns. Aside from being included in the National Tourism Strategic Zone, Borobudur Temple is also included by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage. This study aims to evaluate the visitors’ management within the area that plays a role as the site's educational purpose. The purpose achieved is observed through the visitors’ interpretation. This study conducted several methods to collect data and information, among other field observation, person-centered mapping, photo documentation, and questionnaire. The results of this study are most domestic visitors did not visit supporting attractions, such as Karmawibhangga Museum and Samudraraksa Ship Museum, that provide the educational purpose. This condition was caused by three reasons, a) visitors were tired after climbing the Borobudur Temple, b) the locations of the museums were not strategic, and c) the condition of the museums were less attractive. Most international visitors visited supporting attractions and use a tour guide who have proper and comprehensive knowledge about Borobudur Temple's history and meaning. Through this study, it is expected that the Borobudur Park management authorities can develop a better strategy for managing visitors' movements so that the Borobudur Park purpose of tourists education is achieved.