One of the most iconic scenes in Indonesian cinema — from the film Ada Apa Dengan Cinta 2 (AADC 2) — features the characters Cinta and Rangga watching a breathtaking sunrise at Gereja Ayam (Chicken Church) Bukit Rhema, with the mist-covered valley and Borobudur in the background. Since the film’s release, this hilltop has become one of Indonesia’s most iconic sunrise destinations — and you can experience it firsthand from Kedai Bukit Rhema.
What is Gereja Ayam Bukit Rhema?
Bukit Rhema, commonly known as the Gereja Ayam (Chicken Church), is a unique bird-shaped building perched on a hill in the Borobudur area of Magelang, Central Java. Built by Daniel Alamsjah in 1992 as a spiritual retreat, the building was abandoned for years before being restored and reopened to the public. Its hilltop location makes it one of the best sunrise viewpoints in the Borobudur region.
The Sunrise Experience at Kedai Bukit Rhema
Kedai Bukit Rhema is located right in the Bukit Rhema complex, making it the perfect base for your sunrise experience. The restaurant opens at 6:00 AM, so you can arrive early, catch the sunrise, then settle in for a delicious breakfast with the morning view.
Step 1: Arrive Before Sunrise
Arrive at Bukit Rhema at least 30 minutes before sunrise (typically between 5:30–6:30 AM depending on the season). Entry to the Bukit Rhema complex costs Rp 25,000/person — which can be redeemed for a free Singkong Goreng (fried cassava snack) at Kedai Bukit Rhema!
Step 2: Climb to the Summit
Walk up to the Gereja Ayam and the highest viewpoints. From the summit you’ll see: Candi Borobudur emerging from morning mist, rice paddies and villages in the Borobudur valley, the Menoreh Hills in the distance, and on clear days — the volcanoes Merapi, Merbabu, and Sumbing.
Step 3: Watch the Sunrise
As the sun rises above the hills, the sky transforms from black to purple, orange, gold, and finally clear blue. The first rays of light touching Candi Borobudur from Bukit Rhema’s elevation is a truly unforgettable sight. For AADC 2 style photos, position yourself with Gereja Ayam in the background, facing the valley.
Step 4: Breakfast at Kedai Bukit Rhema
After the sunrise, head down to Kedai Bukit Rhema for breakfast. The cool morning air will have worked up your appetite, and the restaurant’s menu of nasi goreng, grilled chicken, local coffee, and fresh juices is the perfect way to start your day. Enjoy the meal while the valley below gradually comes to life.
Tips for the Best Sunrise Experience
- ⏰ Arrive before 6:00 AM to secure the best spots
- 🧥 Bring a jacket — the hilltop can be surprisingly cold before sunrise
- 🔦 Bring a flashlight — the path to the top is dark in pre-dawn hours
- 📱 Fully charge your devices — you’ll want to capture everything
- 📅 Choose clear weather days — check the forecast beforehand for the best visibility
How to Book
Book your sunrise experience via WhatsApp at +62 857-2577-9520 or visit https://go.kedaibukitrhema.com/sunrise-gereja-ayam-borobudur.
