SOUTH KALIMANTAN
South Kalimantan is the jewel of Borneo, a realm defined by its unique culture and the vast, intricate network of the Barito River. It is a land where vibrant floating markets thrive and the traditional Dayak and Banjar heritage endures.
This region is centered on Banjarmasin, the ‘River City,’ where daily life unfolds on the water. It offers an authentic Indonesian experience, blending urban hustle with profound natural and cultural beauty.
Most Popular Attractions
Banjarmasin City Core & River Life:
Pasar Terapung Muara Kuin (Kuin Floating Market): The iconic traditional floating market where vendors and buyers trade daily goods directly from canoes (jukung) on the Barito River.
Siring Tendean: A lively riverfront park and promenade along the Martapura River, famous for its weekend culinary and craft markets.
Masjid Raya Sabilal Muhtadin: The largest and most prominent mosque in Banjarmasin, a key religious landmark overlooking the Martapura River.
Bekantan Monument (Proboscis Monkey Statue): A landmark statue dedicated to the proboscis monkey, the region’s unique and endangered mascot.
Jembatan Barito (Barito Bridge): One of the longest river bridges in Indonesia, a vital connection and an impressive piece of engineering over the Barito River.
Museum Wasaka: A historical museum dedicated to the struggle for independence in South Kalimantan, housed in a traditional Banjar house (Rumah Banjar).
Rumah Adat Banjar Bubungan Tinggi: A beautifully preserved example of the traditional high-gabled Banjar house architecture.
Kampung Sasirangan: A village dedicated to the production and sale of Sasirangan, the traditional hand-dyed Banjar fabric.
Nature, Beaches, & Coastal Areas:
Pulau Kembang (Kembang Island): A river island sanctuary in the Barito River famous for its large population of macaque monkeys.
Pulau Bakut (Bakut Island): A smaller island, now a conservation area, known for being a habitat for the endangered Bekantan (Proboscis Monkey).
Taman Nasional Pegunungan Meratus (Meratus Mountains National Park): A protected mountain range offering trekking, waterfalls, and access to traditional Dayak communities.
Pantai Batakan Baru: One of the most accessible and popular beaches in the region, offering a coastal experience with a calm atmosphere.
Loksado: A hilly, forested area known for its traditional Bamboo Rafting on the Amandit River, deep within the province.
Historic Towns & Cultural Sites:
Martapura: Known as the “Diamond City,” this town is the center of diamond mining and processing in South Kalimantan, famous for its gem market.
Candi Agung Amuntai (Amuntai Grand Temple): Historic ruins believed to be remnants of the ancient Negara Dipa Hindu Kingdom.
Makam Sultan Suriansyah: The tomb complex of the first Sultan of the Banjar Kingdom who converted to Islam, a significant historical and religious site.
Desa Keramat Baru: A village known for its production of traditional Banjar weaponry and crafts.
Pasar Intan Martapura (Martapura Diamond Market): A bustling market where raw and cut gems, especially diamonds, are traded.
Desa Wisata Sasirangan (Sasirangan Tourism Village): A more dedicated village for learning and practicing the traditional Banjar tie-dye process.
Riam Kanan Reservoir: A large man-made lake used for hydroelectric power, surrounded by lush hills, offering beautiful views and fishing opportunities.
Air Terjun Bajuin (Bajuin Waterfall): A series of beautiful waterfalls nestled in the foothills, popular for short hikes and natural scenery.
Museum Lambung Mangkurat: The provincial museum located in Banjarbaru, displaying a collection of Banjar and Dayak cultural artifacts and history.
Tahura Sultan Adam (Sultan Adam Grand Forest Park): A protected forest area near Banjarbaru offering recreational facilities, a mini zoo, and the Mandi-Mandi Waterfall.
Activities & Experiences
Experience the Lok Baintan Floating Market: Hire a kelotok (traditional motorized boat) before sunrise to visit this authentic market on the Martapura River. Witness vendors in their jukung (small boats), selling produce and local snacks, often wearing traditional tanggui (conical hats).
Go Bamboo Rafting in Loksado: Head to the Hulu Sungai Selatan regency and enjoy a soft adventure by floating down the Amandit River on a traditional bamboo raft, navigating mild rapids through lush rainforest scenery.
Hunt for Diamonds in Martapura: Visit the Cempaka diamond mining area and the Martapura Diamond Market, Indonesia’s “Diamond City,” to see traditional diamond trading and purchase precious and semi-precious stones.
Visit Kembang Island and the Long-Tailed Monkeys: Take a boat trip on the Barito River to this small island, which is a nature reserve and a Hindu religious site, home to a large population of playful long-tailed macaques.
Explore Banjarmasin’s Oldest Mosque: Visit the Sultan Suriansyah Mosque, the oldest in South Kalimantan (dating back to the 16th century), showcasing unique pre-Islamic Banjar architecture with its tiered roof.
Trek the Meratus Mountains: Embark on a jungle trek through the Meratus Mountains, which offer waterfalls and a chance to visit remote Dayak Meratus traditional villages to learn about their nomadic farming culture.
Learn to Make Sasirangan Batik: Take a workshop to learn about and try creating Sasirangan, the traditional tie-dye fabric of South Kalimantan, known for its vibrant colors and distinct patterns.
Taste Banjar Street Food on the Riverbank: Explore the Siring riverfront area and local warungs (food stalls) to sample local specialties like Soto Banjar and Ketupat Kandangan right next to the river.
Take a Kelotok Tour of the River System: Hire a traditional boat to navigate the many tributaries and canals of Banjarmasin, viewing the city’s unique houses on stilts (lanting) and observing daily riverine life.
Visit the Wasaka Museum: Delve into the region’s history at this museum (built entirely of wood), which houses artifacts and displays chronicling the Banjar people’s struggle for independence against Dutch colonialism.
Enjoy a Sunset at Batakan Beach: Head to the coastal areas to relax and enjoy the sunset, with Batakan Beach and Takisung Beach being popular spots for a scenic beach day outside the main city.
Local Tips & Transport
The River is the Highway: As the “City of a Thousand Rivers,” the waterways are crucial. Kelotok (small motorized wooden boats) are the most common form of river transport for local travel, floating markets, and sightseeing. You can charter one easily from the main river banks in Banjarmasin.
Internal Flights: The main gateway is Syamsudin Noor Airport (BDJ), located outside Banjarmasin. For exploring the wider region or connecting to other parts of Borneo, regional flights are generally the fastest and most reliable option.
Local Land Transport: Within Banjarmasin, taxis and ride-hailing apps are available. For intercity travel within the province, buses and pre-booked minibuses (often called travel) connect major towns, though roads can be challenging, especially in the interior.
From the Airport to the City: Taxis and pre-arranged hotel transport are the most straightforward ways to get from BDJ to the city center.
The Best Time to Visit the Market is Early: The famous floating markets (Lok Baintan and Siring) are a sunrise phenomenon. Most activity happens between 5:00 AM and 9:00 AM, after which the market disperses. Plan to be on the river well before 6:00 AM for the best experience.
Dress Conservatively: South Kalimantan, being predominantly Banjar (Muslim), is more conservative than other parts of Indonesia. Dress respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and public displays of affection should be avoided.
Embrace the Banjar Cuisine: Don’t miss the local food! Soto Banjar (a clear, aromatic chicken soup with warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg) is a must-try. Other specialties include Ketupat Kandangan (rice cakes with smoked fish in coconut milk curry) and Nasi Itik Gambut (steamed rice with spiced duck).
Language: The primary languages are Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia) and the local Banjar language. While English is understood in major hotels and by some tour operators, learning basic Indonesian phrases (Terima kasih – Thank you; Permisi – Excuse me) will be very helpful and appreciated.
Hidden Gems:
- Rumpiang Bridge, Marabahan: An impressive modern bridge over the Barito River, providing scenic views and a great photo opportunity, especially at sunset.
- Bubungan Tinggi House: Seek out this traditional Banjar-style house with its distinctly tall and sharply-angled roof, a classic example of local architecture.
- Mandai (Fermented Cempedak Skin): For the adventurous palate, try Mandai, a unique local delicacy made from fermented cempedak (a type of jackfruit) skin, often fried or grilled.
Top Restaurants
Warung Soto Banjar Kuin Abdhu [$5-$10] – A legendary and essential spot for authentic Soto Banjar, a fragrant chicken soup spiced with cinnamon and cloves, served with rice cake or rice.
Soto Bang Amat [$5-$15] – Highly recommended for its delicious Soto Banjar and tender chicken satay, situated right on the riverbank offering a unique view and sometimes live traditional music.
Rumah Sambal Acan Raja Banjar [$10-$20] – Famous for authentic Banjarese cuisine, especially various grilled fish (panggangan) like Pais Patin (steamed/grilled Patin fish) and its extensive selection of house-made sambal (chili paste).
Depot Miki [$5-$15] – A legendary dining spot established decades ago, renowned for authentic Banjar cuisine crafted using family recipes, including excellent Soto Banjar and Nasi Kuning (yellow rice).
Warung Makan Haji Fauzan [$5-$15] – A local favorite known for its signature Ketupat Kandangan, a traditional dish of rice cake served with a savory coconut milk-fish curry, often using smoked snakehead fish (ikan haruan).
Rumah Makan Lontong Orari [$5-$15] – A popular place specializing in Lontong Orari, a local dish of compressed rice cake served with a rich, flavorful curry, often a preferred spot for late-night meals or breakfast.
Rumah Makan Paringgitan [$10-$20] – Known for offering a wide variety of traditional Banjar dishes in a comfortable setting, perfect for trying regional staples beyond soto.
Depot Sari Rasa [$5-$15] – A long-standing, modest depot popular among locals for its home-style Indonesian and Banjarese cooking, emphasizing freshness and classic flavors.
Nasi Kuning Acil Odah [$3-$7] – A famous street food vendor (often found around Pasar Lama) specializing in Nasi Kuning Banjar—fragrant yellow rice served with spiced chicken, boiled eggs, and sambal.
Depot Cendrawasih [$10-$20] – Serving customers since the 1980s, this depot is a top choice for enjoying Indonesian-Chinese dishes with authentic flavors, like Special Fried Rice and Butter Fried Chicken.
Warung Nasi Itik Gambut Hj. Fatimah [$5-$15] – A renowned spot for Nasi Itik Gambut, a specialty dish of rice paired with juicy, spice-infused duck that has been slow-cooked or braised to perfection.
Rumah Makan Hj. Mursinah [$5-$15] – Famous for its traditional Banjar dishes, often featuring river fish and vegetables cooked in classic regional styles.
Warung Makan Padang Sederhana [$5-$15] – While Padang (West Sumatran) cuisine, these restaurants are ubiquitous and highly popular in Banjarmasin for a quick, filling meal of Rendang, curries, and various side dishes.
Rumah Makan Ayam Goreng dan Pecel Lele Lamongan [$5-$10] – A common and non-touristy choice for simple, tasty fried chicken (Ayam Goreng) or fried catfish (Pecel Lele) served with rice, sambal, and fresh vegetables.
Warung Sate Ayam [$5-$10] – A generic yet essential category; look for busy local street stalls for charcoal-grilled chicken satay, a flavorful and affordable Banjar street-food staple.
Warung Kopi Amuntai [$3-$7] – A classic coffee stall atmosphere, though mainly for drinks, they often serve light snacks and local breakfast items like steamed buns (mantaw) or toasts.
Warung Makan Ketupat Batubara [$5-$15] – Another excellent option specializing in Ketupat Kandangan, often using a rich, yellow coconut milk sauce.
Warung Makan H. Idrus [$5-$15] – A respected local warung known for consistently good, authentic Banjarese food, popular for lunch with local office workers.
Rumah Makan Pakasam Acil Ida [$5-$15] – A specialized spot for Iwak Pakasam (fermented fish), a tangy, stir-fried Banjarese delicacy, served with rice and sambal.
Warung Sate Tulang H. Ibus [$5-$15] – Known for Sate Tulang (bone satay), a unique Banjarese street-food twist using spiced chicken cartilage, skin, and small pieces of meat on skewers.
Warung Nasi Campur Ibu Masripah [$5-$10] – A simple warung offering Nasi Campur (mixed rice), where you can choose various traditional side dishes to accompany your rice.
Warung Makan Sayur Kambang Tigarun [$5-$15] – One of the few places that might serve Sayur Kambang Tigarun, a local vegetable dish utilizing the flowers and stems of the tinggarun plant, offering an authentic, slightly bitter local flavor.
Lontong Sayur Acil Esus [$5-$10] – A famous vendor known for Lontong Sayur, a simple but flavorful rice cake served in a coconut milk vegetable stew, often eaten for breakfast.
Rumah Makan Coto Banjar [$5-$15] – A spot to try Coto Banjar, a variation of the meat soup, distinct from the more famous Soto Banjar.
Warung Gorengan dan Jajanan Pasar [$1-$5] – Not a restaurant, but look for a busy stall selling various gorengan (fritters) and jajanan pasar (traditional market snacks), essential for cheap, local bites.
Rumah Makan Manday [$5-$15] – A restaurant specializing in Manday, a traditional Banjarese dish made from fermented rattan shoots, usually fried or braised.
Warung Ikan Bakar Tepian Sungai [$10-$25] – Look for any busy riverside grill/eatery for a fresh and local experience of Ikan Bakar (grilled fish), often river or brackish water species like Patin or Haruan.
Depot Sari Patin [$10-$20] – A restaurant focused on preparing Patin (Pangasius catfish) in various traditional Banjar styles, highly recommended for freshwater fish lovers.
Warung Makan Hj. Enny [$5-$15] – A humble, highly-regarded local eatery serving authentic Banjar cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients and classic recipes.
Warung Nasi Itik H. Ahyar [$5-$15] – Another competitor for the best Nasi Itik Gambut, a must-try for this rich regional duck specialty.
Kedai Kopi Nam Min [$3-$7] – A legendary coffee shop operating since the 1950s, famous for its robust traditional black coffee and maintaining an old-school, classic charm.
Kedai Kopi Mantaw [$5-$10] – A unique spot combining local coffee culture with mantaw (steamed buns of Chinese origin), a favorite for a relaxing afternoon snack.
Toko Kue Bingka Ny. Lina [$5-$15] – A specialized shop for Kue Bingka, a very sweet, soft, and rich Banjar dessert made with eggs, sugar, flour, and coconut milk, often in a unique flower mold.
Kue Apam Barabai [$1-$5] – Look for stalls selling this traditional steamed rice cake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with grated coconut or palm sugar syrup.
Martabak Telur H. Mansyur [$10-$20] – A famous spot for Martabak Telur, a savory, thick pancake/omelet filled with minced meat and onion, a popular evening street food.
Es Campur dan Es Teler Acil Yanti [$3-$7] – A local vendor specializing in Es Campur or Es Teler, popular Indonesian mixed-ice desserts perfect for cooling down.
Toko Roti Crystal [$5-$15] – While mainly a bakery, it’s known for its wide range of local snacks (jajanan) and classic Indonesian pastries.
Kedai Kopi Paman Birin [$3-$7] – A popular coffee house among locals for a casual meet-up, serving local coffee blends and simple snacks.
Gerobak Rujak Buah [$3-$7] – Look for a street cart selling Rujak Buah, an Indonesian fruit salad served with a tangy, spicy palm sugar dressing.
Warung Pisang Goreng Keju [$3-$7] – A stall specializing in fried bananas with various toppings, especially grated cheese and condensed milk, a sweet local favorite.
Bancir Banjar Noodle (Mie Bancir) from Agus Sasirangan in Kayutangi [$10-$20] – An eatery serving a unique and beloved dish called Mie Bancir (“mi tanggung”), which is noodles with a specific local sauce, often topped with grilled chicken, wontons, and duck egg.
Effronte [$15-$30] – Located above the Crystal bakery, this is a popular cafe and restaurant offering Western and fusion dishes, a good spot for a more modern, comfortable atmosphere.
Effronte Deli [$10-$25] – Offering a menu featuring Western dishes, this is a clean, well-designed spot for a comfortable, non-traditional meal, often including good coffee and gelato.
Golden Tulip Galaxy Banjarmasin – Sky Bar [$20-$40] – The hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant offer a contemporary menu with Indonesian and international choices, and one of the few places with a modern, high-rise view of the city.
Favehotel Ahmad Yani Banjarmasin – Restaurant [$15-$30] – Offering a range of Indonesian and international dishes, a reliable option for modern dining and good service in a central location.
HBI Hotel Banjarmasin – Lotus Restaurant [$15-$30] – A hotel dining venue that provides a mix of Asian and International cuisine in a contemporary setting.
Ayam Bakar & Seafood Batagor [$10-$20] – Offers a mix of grilled chicken/seafood and Batagor (fried fish dumplings with peanut sauce), a popular Indonesian culinary pairing.
Banjarmasin Resto & Cafe [$15-$30] – A modern cafe-style restaurant that serves both local Banjarese specialties and international/fusion dishes.
Rumah Makan Ikan Goreng Cianjur [$15-$30] – While West Javanese in origin, this is a well-regarded restaurant for excellent fried freshwater fish (ikan goreng), popular for family meals.
Depot Coto Makassar Hj. Judding [$10-$20] – Brings the flavors of Makassar (South Sulawesi) to Banjarmasin, specializing in Coto Makassar (beef soup) and Sop Konro (rib soup).
Pondok Bahari [$15-$30] – A seafood restaurant popular for large groups and families, offering a wide array of fresh seafood cooked in Indonesian styles.
D’Cost Seafood [$15-$30] – A popular Indonesian chain that offers affordable and varied seafood dishes in a casual, family-friendly setting.
Angkringan [$3-$7] – Not a single restaurant, but a term for various street food carts, popular at night for cheap grilled snacks, rice packets, and coffee, offering a very local and communal dining experience.
Warung Bakso [$5-$10] – Seek out a busy local Bakso (meatball soup) stall or warung; it’s a national favorite, often served with noodles and various savory condiments.
Toko Oen [$15-$30] – A restaurant offering some classic, old-school Indonesian and Dutch-influenced dishes in a nostalgic setting, often found in various Indonesian cities.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Sky Pavilion Bar & Lounge (Novotel Banjarmasin Airport): Located near Syamsudin Noor International Airport in Banjarbaru, this upscale hotel lounge offers a refined atmosphere, comfortable seating, and a selection of international and non-alcoholic specialty beverages.
The Royal Lounge (Hotel Rattan Inn): Situated in central Banjarmasin, this hotel lounge provides a comfortable and elegant setting for late-night socializing, often featuring live music and a range of drinks.
A-Bar (Aston Banua Banjarmasin Hotel & Convention): Found in Banjarbaru, this modern and sleek bar area within the hotel offers a variety of soft drinks, mocktails, and sometimes features live performances in a relaxed environment.
Opio Music Lounge: A popular spot in Banjarmasin offering a vibrant atmosphere with resident DJs and a focus on commercial music, serving a variety of refreshments and non-alcoholic drinks.
D’Crown Cafe & Lounge: Located in the city center of Banjarmasin, this venue combines a modern cafe and lounge feel, making it suitable for socializing late into the evening with a menu of coffee and mocktails.
Galaxy Hotel Poolside Bar: Although primarily a hotel pool area in Banjarmasin, the bar often transforms into a relaxing spot in the evenings, offering a quiet place to enjoy a cool drink under the stars.
Grand Dafam Q Hotel Lounge: Found in Banjarbaru, this hotel lounge offers a quiet and luxurious space for guests and visitors to unwind, known for its comfortable ambiance and attentive service.
Mercure Banjarmasin Lobby Lounge: A centrally located and modern spot in Banjarmasin, perfect for a pre- or post-dinner refreshment with a menu of coffee and specialty juices in a stylish setting.
Wargi Coffee Banjarmasin: While primarily a coffee shop, its modern design and comfortable setting, popular with young locals, make it a great spot for late-night socializing over specialty coffee and non-alcoholic drinks.
Sante Bar (Swiss-Belhotel Borneo Banjarmasin): Located in the strategic central business district of Banjarmasin, this hotel bar provides a clean and professional setting, often preferred by business travelers for a quiet evening drink.
Q-Bar (Favehotel Banjarbaru): A simple, contemporary bar space within the hotel in Banjarbaru, offering a convenient and casual spot for a late-night chat and a cool beverage.
Duta Mall Entertainment Area: While not a single bar, the area surrounding the cinema and food court in Banjarmasin’s largest mall offers various modern cafes and dining spots that stay open late for casual evening hangouts.
Cafe Tepi Siring (Banjarmasin Riverside): Offers a laid-back, open-air, and scenic experience along the Martapura River. While basic, it’s a classic late-night spot for local drinks, coffee, and snacks.
Jukung Bar (Hotel Victoria River View): Located within the hotel in Banjarmasin, this bar offers a unique view of the river and surrounding area, providing a calm atmosphere for evening drinks.
Taher Square Cafe & Bar: A venue in Banjarmasin offering a mix of food and drink, known for its lively crowd and casual, welcoming atmosphere, suitable for a relaxed evening out.
Grand Diskotik Banjarmasin: One of the most long-standing and well-known late-night entertainment venues in Banjarmasin, known for its large dance floor and lively atmosphere with local DJs playing popular commercial and electronic music.
Pub & KTV The Royal (Hotel Rattan Inn): Situated in central Banjarmasin, this venue combines a lively pub setting with private karaoke rooms, making it a popular choice for a group night out with music and singing.
H Club (Ritz Plaza Hotel): Located in central Banjarmasin, this venue offers a modern clubbing experience, often hosting themed nights and featuring both local and occasionally guest DJs, focusing on house and commercial dance music.
Athena Karaoke & Club: A combined entertainment venue in Banjarmasin where patrons can enjoy private karaoke sessions or move to the more open club area, providing a mixed entertainment experience.
New Loxus Entertainment & KTV: A large and popular entertainment complex in Banjarmasin, known for its extensive KTV facilities, but also featuring a public area that operates with a lively club atmosphere on weekend nights.
F1 Club Banjarmasin: A dedicated nightclub in the city, known for its high-energy environment, strong sound system, and attracting a young, energetic crowd with a focus on local dance hits and R&B.
Blue Star KTV & Lounge: While primarily a karaoke spot in Banjarmasin, the lounge area often transitions into a vibrant, music-focused venue later in the evening, suitable for dancing and socializing.
Hotel Roditha Lounge & Karaoke: Situated near the city center, this venue offers a more mid-range club/lounge experience, popular with both locals and hotel guests looking for a relaxed yet lively night of music.
Nashville Club: Found in Banjarmasin, this venue has established itself as a reliable spot for late-night revelry, featuring resident DJs spinning a mix of popular genres.
Lords Club: A contemporary entertainment spot in Banjarmasin, offering a chic setting and a focus on current music trends, often hosting special events and appealing to a more modern, style-conscious crowd.