West Kalimantan Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and explore in West Kalimantan, Indonesia with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to West Kalimantan

Nestled in the heart of Kalimantan in Indonesia, West Kalimantan is popular with tourists for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The region boasts a mix of indigenous cultures, including Dayak, Malay, and Chinese, making it an excellent destination for those interested in cultural diversity.

West Kalimantan is easily accessible for tourists from nearby cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali. Visitors to the region can explore its diverse landscapes, rich cultural history, and flavorful cuisine. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family and friends, West Kalimantan is a must-visit destination.

List of Places to Visit in West Kalimantan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

West Kalimantan has a rich cultural history, which is best explored through its museums and historical places. Some top cultural attractions include:

  1. Rumah Betang - It is a traditional longhouse where visitors can learn about the local Dayak culture and traditions.
  2. Sultan Pontianak Palace Museum - The palace-cum-museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts and objects from the life of Sultan Syarif Abdurrahman Al-Qadri, who founded the city of Pontianak.
  3. Fort Senggarang - This 17th-century fortress is one of West Kalimantan’s most significant historical landmarks and helps visitors understand the region’s colonial past.

Natural Attractions of West Kalimantan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

West Kalimantan’s lush green landscapes and pristine beaches make it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The region has numerous natural attractions, including:

  1. Gunung Palung National Park - The national park is home to endangered orangutans, gibbons, and other wildlife species, making it a must-visit spot for wildlife lovers.
  2. Kapuas Hulu Regency - The region’s verdant forests and rushing rivers offer excellent opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and rafting.
  3. Tanjung Keluang Beach - Located on the northwest coast of Kalimantan, this secluded beach is an excellent spot for sunbathing, snorkeling, and swimming.

Hiking/Biking Routes of West Kalimantan

West Kalimantan has several challenging hiking and biking trails that provide stunning views of the region’s natural landscape and offer travelers a unique experience. Some of the prominent hiking and biking routes are:

  1. Gunung Palung Trek - The trek takes visitors through the beautiful landscapes of Gunung Palung National Park and is best suited for experienced hikers.
  2. Kabupaten Landak Circuit - This scenic cycling route takes visitors through the green hills of Landak, providing breathtaking views throughout the journey.

Best Things to Do in West Kalimantan: Activities and Tours

Aside from exploring the region’s natural beauty and rich cultural history, there are several unique activities and tours to experience in West Kalimantan. These include:

  1. Dayak Cultural Experience - Visitors can immerse themselves in the local Dayak culture and traditions, including craft-making and learning about the region’s unique cuisine.
  2. Keraton Songket Tour - This tour allows tourists to learn about traditional Songket weaving, an important cultural activity in the region, and also shop for souvenirs.
  3. Durian Farm Visit - West Kalimantan is well-known for its delicious durians, and a visit to a durian farm is an excellent way to taste the region’s unique fruit.

Week-Long Itinerary for West Kalimantan

For travelers looking to spend a week exploring the region’s beauty and culture, we recommend the following itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Katon Palace in Pontianak
Day 2-3 Trek Gunung Palung National Park and visit its Orangutan Research Center
Day 4-5 Visit cultural attractions like Rumah Betang and Fort Senggarang
Day 6 Discover the region’s unique cuisine and visit a Durian Farm
Day 7 Relax and unwind at Tanjung Keluang Beach

Food and Drink Scene of West Kalimantan

West Kalimantan’s food scene boasts a mix of Chinese, Malay, and Dayak cuisine, with an emphasis on rich and spicy flavors. Some must-try dishes to savor in the region are:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Rujak Pengantin - A sour and spicy fruit salad
  2. Bubur Pedas - Hot and spicy rice porridge
  3. Sop Ubuih Pude - A chicken and vegetable soup with a spicy kick

Local Beverages

  1. Bir Pletok - A traditional herbal drink made from ginger, lemongrass, and spices
  2. Tuak - A local palm wine that is a popular alcoholic drink in West Kalimantan
  3. Kopi Kapal Terbang - A potent coffee blend, also known as the “airplane coffee” for its energy-boosting properties.

Where to Stay in West Kalimantan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

West Kalimantan has an abundance of places to stay, ranging from high-end hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some popular options are:

  1. The Trans Hotel Pontianak - A luxurious hotel in the heart of the city with stunning river views.
  2. Aston Pontianak - A modern hotel located in the business district of Pontianak.
  3. RedDoorz Plus near Raya Siantan - A budget-friendly option that provides excellent value for money for the budget-conscious traveler.

What to Buy in West Kalimantan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

West Kalimantan offers an array of souvenirs and local products that tourists can take home as a reminder of their trip. Some of the things to consider buying include:

  1. Songket - A traditional hand-woven cloth often used for ceremonial purposes.
  2. Dayak Crafts - Unique handicrafts made from rattan, wood, or bamboo, such as masks, baskets, and carvings.
  3. Durian Products - West Kalimantan’s world-renowned durians, including durian chips, jams, and processed fruits.

Local Culture and Customs of West Kalimantan

West Kalimantan is home to many different indigenous cultures, each with its unique customs and traditions. It’s essential to respect these customs and traditions while visiting the region, including:

  1. Greeting Customs - It’s important to greet people with respect and honor, using their formal titles or proper names.
  2. Dress Code - Modest dressing is expected in public places and religious establishments.
  3. Taboos - Visitors should avoid pointing with their fingers or feet and generally refrain from touching things or people directly.

Best Time to Visit West Kalimantan

The best time to visit West Kalimantan is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. The temperature during this time ranges between 24°C to 30°C, making it ideal weather for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of West Kalimantan

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and traditions.
  2. Dress modestly in public places and religious sites.
  3. Be friendly and courteous to the locals.

Don’t:

  1. Do not point with your fingers or feet.
  2. Do not touch things or people directly, especially in religious establishments.

Safety and Health

Safety in West Kalimantan

West Kalimantan is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always essential to exercise caution while traveling. Some safety tips to keep in mind include:

  1. Avoid traveling alone at night, particularly in remote areas.
  2. Stay in well-lit and busy areas, particularly in big cities like Pontianak.
  3. Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure.

Health in West Kalimantan

It’s essential to take basic health precautions while traveling to West Kalimantan. Some essential health tips include:

  1. Drink only bottled water and avoid tap water.
  2. Protect yourself from mosquito bites by using mosquito repellent and wearing appropriate clothing.
  3. Seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of illness.

Getting to West Kalimantan: Transportation Options and Logistics

West Kalimantan is well-connected to other Indonesian cities, making it easily accessible for tourists. Some travel options include:

Airports Near West Kalimantan

  1. Supadio International Airport - Located in Pontianak, it’s the main airport in the region and serves several flights from major Indonesian cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali.
  2. Ketapang Airport - Located in Ketapang, near the border of East Java, it’s a smaller airport that operates domestic flights to Pontianak.

Bus Stations Near West Kalimantan

  1. Pontianak Bus Station - A major bus station situated in the center of Pontianak city and provides regular bus services to nearby towns and cities in Kalimantan and beyond.

Other Options

  1. Ferry - It’s possible to travel between Pontianak and neighboring Malaysian towns by ferry.
  2. Car Rental - Several car rental companies offer car hire services for tourists who prefer to drive themselves.

How to Get Around in West Kalimantan

West Kalimantan has several transportation options for travelers once they arrive in the region. These include:

  1. Bus - The most common mode of transportation in West Kalimantan, with several bus companies operating in the region.
  2. Motorcycle Taxis - A popular option for short journeys within cities like Pontianak and Singkawang.

Where to Go Next from West Kalimantan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several exciting destinations nearby to West Kalimantan where tourists can explore further. Some of the popular options include:

  1. Bali - A popular beach destination in Indonesia, Bali, is just a short flight away from West Kalimantan.
  2. Mount Kinabalu - Located across the border in Malaysia, the hike to the summit of Mount Kinabalu is a popular excursion for adventure seekers.

Conclusion

West Kalimantan is a unique and fascinating destination that offers tourists a glimpse into the region’s diverse cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. With its abundance of attractions and exciting activities, West Kalimantan is a must-visit destination for travelers looking for a unique Indonesian experience.



    Pontianak