Did you know Banjarmasin is nicknamed the “City of a Thousand Rivers”? With more waterways than roads, this vibrant capital of South Kalimantan offers a unique glimpse into traditional Indonesian life where water truly shapes the culture. Located on Borneo island, Banjarmasin presents travelers with floating markets, historic mosques, and natural wonders that can’t be found anywhere else in Indonesia.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Banjarmasin is accessible primarily through Syamsudin Noor International Airport, located about 25 kilometers from the city center. The airport receives regular flights from major Indonesian cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, and Balikpapan. Most international travelers will need to connect through these hubs.
For those already in Kalimantan, river transportation offers a scenic alternative to reach Banjarmasin. Traditional wooden boats called “klotok” connect various towns along the region’s extensive river network.
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Essential Travel Documents
Most visitors to Indonesia require a visa. Travelers from many countries can obtain a 30-day visa-on-arrival at major entry points, including Syamsudin Noor Airport. This visa can be extended once for an additional 30 days.
For the most current visa information, check Indonesia’s immigration website before your trip.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Banjarmasin has a tropical climate with high humidity year-round. The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to September when rainfall is less frequent and outdoor activities are more enjoyable.
Dry Season (May-September)
The ideal time to visit Banjarmasin is during these months when rainfall decreases significantly. This period offers the best conditions for exploring floating markets, river tours, and outdoor attractions. Temperatures typically range from 23°C to 33°C (73°F to 91°F).
Wet Season (October-April)
The wet season brings frequent afternoon downpours, though mornings are often clear. While this period means fewer tourists, some outdoor activities might be limited. The upside is lusher landscapes and fuller rivers, making for more dramatic scenery.
What to Pack
Getting Around Locally
Banjarmasin’s identity as the “City of a Thousand Rivers” means water transportation plays a significant role in local travel. However, land transportation options are also available for exploring the city.
Water Transportation
Land Transportation
Explore Banjarmasin at Your Own Pace
Rent a vehicle and discover hidden gems beyond the city center!
For the most authentic Banjarmasin experience, combine both water and land transportation methods. Start your day with a river tour to the floating markets, then explore the city center by becak or rental vehicle.
Where to Stay
Banjarmasin offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Most hotels are concentrated in the city center, providing easy access to major attractions.
Luxury Options
For travelers seeking comfort and amenities, Banjarmasin offers several high-end hotels with river views, swimming pools, and full-service restaurants.
Mid-Range Accommodations
Comfortable options that balance quality and value, perfect for most travelers.
Budget-Friendly Stays
Clean, simple accommodations for travelers watching their budget.
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Neighborhood Guide
City Center
Stay here for convenience to main attractions, shopping, and dining. Most mid-range and luxury hotels are located in this area.
Riverside Areas
For a more atmospheric stay, choose accommodations along the Martapura River for beautiful views and easy access to water transportation.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Banjarmasin’s culinary scene reflects its riverside location and cultural heritage. The city is famous for its unique Banjarese cuisine, which features fresh river fish, aromatic spices, and influences from Malay, Javanese, and indigenous Dayak cooking traditions.
Must-Try Local Dishes
Where to Eat
Traditional Eateries
For authentic local flavors at affordable prices, visit these establishments:
Riverside Dining
Enjoy meals with scenic river views at these locations:
Modern Options
For international cuisine and contemporary settings:
Dining Tips
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Banjarmasin offers a wealth of attractions centered around its rivers, cultural heritage, and natural surroundings. From bustling floating markets to historic mosques, there’s something for every type of traveler.
Floating Markets
Banjarmasin’s floating markets are the city’s most iconic attractions, offering a glimpse into traditional river commerce that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Lok Baintan Floating Market
Located about 25 km from the city center, this is the most famous and authentic floating market. Hundreds of boats gather each morning from 5:00 AM to 7:30 AM as vendors—mostly women wearing traditional wide-brimmed hats—sell fresh produce, local snacks, and handicrafts. To visit, you’ll need to rent a boat from the dock and enjoy a 45-minute ride to reach the market.
Pasar Terapung Banjarmasin
A more accessible floating market closer to the city center. While smaller than Lok Baintan, it offers a similar experience with the convenience of being within the city. Vendors sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and prepared foods from their wooden boats. The market is most active from early morning until about 9:00 AM.
Experience Banjarmasin’s Unique Culture
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Historic Religious Sites
Sultan Suriansyah Mosque
The oldest mosque in South Kalimantan, built during the reign of Sultan Suriansyah around 300 years ago. Located by the Kuin River, this historic mosque features a unique layered roof that reflects elements of pre-Islamic Banjarese architectural style. As the first Banjar King to adopt Islam, Sultan Suriansyah’s mosque holds significant cultural and historical importance.
Masjid Raya Sabilal Muhtadin
The largest mosque in Banjarmasin, capable of accommodating up to 15,000 worshippers. This grand mosque features a huge domed prayer hall and five towers set amidst beautifully landscaped grounds. Named after a book written by the esteemed scholar Sheikh Muhammad Arsyad Al Banjary, the mosque is both a religious center and a popular spot for relaxation in its green park.
Klenteng Soetji Nurani
A Chinese temple over a century old, representing the cultural diversity of Banjarmasin. Located near the floating market attraction, this temple serves as an important place of worship for the Chinese community and stands as one of the city’s cultural heritages. The temple’s architecture and ornate decorations offer insight into Chinese religious practices in Indonesia.
Museums and Cultural Sites
Museum WASAKA
Located in Sungai Jingah, this museum houses artifacts and artworks depicting the struggle for independence against Dutch colonialism in South Kalimantan. The name WASAKA derives from the Banjarese warfare motto “Waja Sampai Kaputing,” symbolizing the unwavering determination of the Banjarese people to fight until their last drop of blood. The museum offers valuable insights into the region’s history and cultural identity.
Menara Pandang Banjarmasin
An observation tower offering panoramic views of the city and Martapura River. This landmark is part of a vibrant riverfront area that includes a boardwalk, small stage, and playground. The tower is especially popular in the evenings when the surrounding area comes alive with food vendors and local performers. It’s an excellent spot for photography and people-watching.
Natural Attractions
Kembang Island
Located in the Barito River delta near the Muara Kuin Floating Market, this island offers a unique opportunity to observe proboscis monkeys (Bekantan) in their natural habitat. These distinctive monkeys with large noses are endemic to Borneo and are one of Asia’s largest monkey species. The island spans approximately 60 hectares and is also home to thousands of birds and a sacred Chinese temple.
Meratus Mountains
A day trip from Banjarmasin, these mountains offer breathtaking natural landscapes, cool air, and opportunities for hiking and bamboo rafting. The four-hour journey from the city rewards visitors with picturesque views, vibrant rivers, and a chance to experience the region’s natural beauty away from urban areas. The mountains are home to diverse wildlife and indigenous Dayak communities.
Urban Attractions
Taman Siring 0 Kilometer
A popular waterfront park in the heart of the city featuring a milestone monument, Martapura River boardwalk, and recreational facilities. This vibrant public space attracts locals and visitors alike, especially on weekends when it hosts various events and performances. The park offers scenic views of the river and serves as a gathering place for the community.
Duta Mall
The premier shopping destination in Banjarmasin, offering both international and local brands. Visitors can enjoy a diverse culinary experience at the food court, where they can sample authentic local dishes in air-conditioned comfort. The mall provides a welcome respite from the tropical heat and a chance to experience modern Indonesian urban life.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Banjarmasin’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its museums, traditional arts, and vibrant festivals. Exploring these aspects offers deeper insights into the unique Banjarese culture.
Cultural Experiences
Traditional Sasirangan Fabric
Sasirangan is the traditional fabric of South Kalimantan, created using a resist-dyeing technique similar to tie-dye. Each pattern holds symbolic meaning and was historically believed to have healing properties. Visitors can watch artisans create these colorful fabrics at workshops throughout the city and purchase pieces as souvenirs. Some workshops offer hands-on experiences where you can learn the basic techniques.
Traditional Dance Performances
Banjarese traditional dances tell stories of local legends, historical events, and daily life. The most famous include Baksa Kembang (Flower Dance) and Radap Rahayu (a dance depicting harmony). These performances feature elaborate costumes and graceful movements accompanied by traditional music. Check with your hotel or the local tourism office for scheduled performances during your visit.
River Life Experience
Beyond tourist attractions, experiencing the authentic river life of Banjarmasin offers cultural insights. Consider taking a longer boat tour to observe riverside communities where houses are built on stilts and daily activities center around the water. Some tours include visits to traditional floating homes and workshops where boat builders practice their craft using techniques passed down through generations.
Annual Festivals
Festival Budaya Pasar Terapung
This cultural festival celebrates Banjarmasin’s floating market tradition with boat parades, traditional music and dance performances, and culinary exhibitions. Usually held in July or August, the festival attracts visitors from across Indonesia and offers an enhanced floating market experience with special demonstrations of traditional crafts and cooking techniques.
Festival Banjar
A celebration of Banjarese culture featuring traditional arts, music, dance, and cuisine. The festival typically includes competitions in traditional skills, exhibitions of local handicrafts, and performances of rarely seen cultural rituals. Check the local event calendar as dates vary from year to year.
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Local Handicrafts
The best places to purchase authentic handicrafts include the floating markets, small shops near Sultan Suriansyah Mosque, and dedicated handicraft centers like Rumah Anno near Menara Pandang.
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Beyond the city’s cultural attractions, Banjarmasin offers numerous opportunities to experience the natural beauty of Borneo through outdoor activities and excursions.
River Tours
River tours are the quintessential Banjarmasin experience, offering a unique perspective on the city and surrounding areas.
Nature Excursions
Pulau Kaget Nature Reserve
Located near the mouth of the Barito River, this 85-hectare nature reserve is home to the elusive proboscis monkey. While sightings aren’t guaranteed due to the shy nature of these animals, the island offers surprises and is a great place for exploration. The boat journey to reach the island is an experience in itself, passing through changing river landscapes.
Loksado Highland
A scenic area in the Meratus Mountains about 4 hours from Banjarmasin, offering opportunities for hiking, bamboo rafting, and visiting indigenous Dayak villages. The cool mountain air and lush landscapes provide a refreshing contrast to the tropical heat of the city. Several tour operators offer day trips or overnight excursions to this region.
Outdoor Activities
Fishing
Join local fishermen for a traditional fishing experience on the rivers around Banjarmasin. Several tour operators offer fishing excursions that include equipment and guidance from experienced locals. The rivers are home to various species including the famous patin (river catfish) that features prominently in local cuisine.
Cycling Tours
Explore the outskirts of Banjarmasin on guided cycling tours that take you through rural villages, past rice fields, and along quieter waterways. These tours often include cultural stops at traditional workshops and local eateries, providing a well-rounded experience of the region.
Bird Watching
The wetland ecosystems around Banjarmasin are home to diverse bird species, making it an excellent destination for bird enthusiasts. Early morning tours to areas like the edges of Pulau Kaget or the wetlands near Lok Baintan offer the best opportunities for spotting kingfishers, herons, and other water birds.
Adventure Awaits in Banjarmasin
Book outdoor excursions and nature tours for unforgettable experiences!
Photography Opportunities
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Understanding local customs and practicing appropriate etiquette will enhance your experience in Banjarmasin and show respect for the local culture.
Cultural Etiquette
Safety Tips
General Safety
Banjarmasin is generally a safe city for tourists, with low rates of violent crime. However, as in any destination, it’s wise to take standard precautions:
Water Safety
Since much of your Banjarmasin experience will involve water transportation:
Health Considerations
Local Laws
Practical Travel Tips
These practical tips will help you navigate Banjarmasin more smoothly and make the most of your visit to this unique river city.
Communication
Money Matters
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Packing Essentials
Must-Have Items
Nice-to-Have Items
Time-Saving Tips
Conclusion
Banjarmasin offers travelers a rare glimpse into a way of life where rivers truly are the lifeblood of the community. From the enchanting early morning floating markets to the historic mosques and natural wonders, this “City of a Thousand Rivers” presents authentic experiences that can’t be found elsewhere in Indonesia.
Whether you’re navigating the waterways on a traditional klotok boat, sampling the unique flavors of Banjarese cuisine, or observing proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat, Banjarmasin rewards visitors with unforgettable memories and a deeper understanding of Borneo’s cultural heritage.
As you plan your journey to this remarkable destination, embrace the rhythm of river life and allow yourself to be swept away by the warm hospitality of the Banjarese people. The floating markets, cultural treasures, and natural beauty of Banjarmasin await your discovery!
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Let the rivers and culture of this unique city sweep you away.
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