Pontianak Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Pontianak in Indonesia? This travel guide covers everything you need to know, from places to visit to the local food scene and culture.


Introduction to Pontianak

Located in West Kalimantan in Indonesia, Pontianak is the perfect destination for those looking to explore the rich culture and natural beauty of Kalimantan. Known as the “Equator City” due to its location on the equator line, Pontianak has a tropical climate with high humidity and rain throughout the year. This means that the city is lush and green, with plenty of outdoor activities and scenic views to enjoy.

List of Places to Visit in Pontianak

Pontianak has a rich history and culture, with plenty to see and do. Here are some of the top attractions in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Pontianak City Museum: This museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that detail the history and culture of Pontianak and Kalimantan.

  • Keraton Kadriyah: This is an old palace that belonged to the Sultan of Pontianak. It now serves as a museum and cultural center.

  • Equator Monument: This monument marks the spot where the equator line passes through Pontianak. Visitors can stand with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and one foot in the Southern Hemisphere.

Natural Attractions of Pontianak: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sungai Kapuas: This is the longest river in Indonesia and offers many opportunities for boat tours and river cruises. Visitors can also enjoy water sports like jet skiing and parasailing.

  • Bukit Batu Bukit Raya National Park: This national park is home to a vast array of flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy jungle treks, birdwatching, and rock climbing.

  • Taman Alun Kapuas: This park is located on the banks of the Kapuas River and offers stunning views of the city skyline.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pontianak

Pontianak offers many opportunities for hiking and biking, with several routes available for all skill levels. Here are some of the most popular:

  • Kelam Hill: This is a short, easy hike that offers panoramic views of the city.

  • Sungai Putri Forest Reserve: This is a longer hike through lush forests, with plenty of opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

Best Things to Do in Pontianak: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of fun activities and tours available in Pontianak. Here are some of the best:

  • River Cruise: Take a boat ride along the Sungai Kapuas and enjoy the stunning views of the river and the city from the water.

  • Food Tour: Pontianak has a rich food scene, and a food tour is the perfect way to explore it. Sample local dishes like empek-empek and soto ayam.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pontianak

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Pontianak, here’s an itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activities
1 Visit Pontianak City Museum and Keraton Kadriyah
2 Explore Sungai Kapuas on a river cruise
3 Hike Kelam Hill and visit Equator Monument
4 Trek through Sungai Putri Forest Reserve
5 Take a food tour and sample local dishes
6 Visit Bukit Batu Bukit Raya National Park
7 Relax in Taman Alun Kapuas and enjoy the city skyline

Food and Drink Scene of Pontianak

Pontianak is known for its delicious food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Empek-Empek: This is a type of fish cake made with mackerel and tapioca starch.

  • Soto Ayam: This is a traditional Indonesian chicken soup with rice noodles and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Bandung: This is a sweet, refreshing drink made with rose syrup, milk, and ice.

  • Es Teh Manis: This is a sweet iced tea that is a popular refreshment in Indonesia.

Where to Stay in Pontianak: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Pontianak to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some top choices:

  • Harris Hotel Pontianak: This is a modern hotel with a central location and great amenities.

  • Kostan Putri Hijau: This is a budget-friendly hostel that offers clean rooms and friendly staff.

What to Buy in Pontianak: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home from Pontianak, here are some ideas:

  • Batik: This is a traditional Indonesian fabric with intricate patterns and designs.

  • Dayak Crafts: The Dayak people of Kalimantan are known for their handicrafts, such as baskets, mats, and carvings.

Local Culture and Customs of Pontianak

Pontianak has a diverse population with a mix of different cultures and ethnicities. The Dayak people of Kalimantan are the largest indigenous group in the area, and their culture is deeply rooted in the land and the forest. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Pontianak

The best time to visit Pontianak is during the dry season, from April to October. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, with less rainfall than the rest of the year. However, it’s important to note that Pontianak can be visited year-round and has plenty to offer no matter the season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pontianak

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Pontianak:

Do:

  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.

  • Try local food and drink.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs or traditions.

  • Leave valuables unattended.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pontianak

Pontianak is generally a safe destination for tourists, with low levels of crime. However, visitors should be cautious when traveling at night and avoid unlit areas.

Health in Pontianak

Pontianak is a low-risk area for infectious diseases, but visitors should still take precautions. Make sure to drink bottled water and use mosquito repellent to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever.

Getting to Pontianak: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pontianak

The nearest airport to Pontianak is Supadio International Airport, located about 17 kilometers from the city center. There are regular flights to Jakarta and other major cities in Indonesia.

Bus Stations Near Pontianak

There are several bus stations in Pontianak, with connections to other cities in Kalimantan and beyond. Some of the main bus stations include Sungai Ambawang, Kota Baru, and Landak.

Other Options

Ferries are also available from nearby cities like Kuching in Malaysia and Banjarmasin in South Kalimantan.

How to Get Around in Pontianak

The best way to get around Pontianak is by taxi or hired car. These can be easily arranged through hotels or local agencies. Motorbikes and bicycles are also available for rent, but be aware that traffic in the city can be hectic.

Where to Go Next from Pontianak: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Kalimantan, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Singkawang: This is a coastal city known for its Chinese heritage and delicious seafood.

  • Sambas: This is a small town located along the western coast of Kalimantan, with a rich history and culture.

Conclusion

Pontianak is a fascinating destination that offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. From visiting museums and historical sites to hiking through the jungle and sampling local cuisine, there is something here for everyone. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a longer stay, this guide has everything you need to know to make the most of your time in Pontianak.

Tugu Khatulistiwa, the equator monument in Pontianak Tugu Khatulistiwa, the equator monument in Pontianak The interior of Kadriyah Palace The interior of Kadriyah Palace Kapuas River, the longest river in Indonesia Kapuas River, the longest river in Indonesia Choi pan, Pontianak specialty dumpling Choi pan, Pontianak specialty dumpling