Banjarmasin
Introduction
You will find Banjarmasin situated on a delta island near the confluence of the Barito and Martapura rivers. As a historic center of Banjarese culture and the former capital of the Sultanate of Banjar, the city serves as a significant cultural hub within Kalimantan.
Before you go
Before you arrive, immerse yourself in the deep history of this riverside city. You can trace its origins back through ancient kingdoms and a transition from "Bandar Masih"—the port of the Malay—to the current name reflecting the salty taste of the water during the dry season. The region's past is marked by the rise of the Islamic Kingdom of Banjar, the resistance of local heroes like Pangeran Antasari during the Banjar War, and its long tenure as a colonial capital.
As you explore, look for the city's enduring charm hidden in unexpected places. While much of its former glory was lost during the colonial era, the area retains a unique character shaped by centuries of Malay influence and historical significance along the rivers of Southern Kalimantan.
Getting thereYou can reach the city by air via Syamsudin Noor International Airport, which offers connections from major Indonesian cities such as Jakarta, Surabaya, Yogyakarta, Denpasar, Pontianak, Makassar, and Balikpapan. Once you land, you can choose between a taxi or arranging a pickup through your accommodation to reach the city center. Alternatively, a short walk to the street outside the airport allows you to share a mini-van for the trip to the kilometre 6 terminal.
For those traveling by land or water from neighboring provinces in East and Central Kalimantan, you can navigate the Trans-Kalimantan roads by car or opt for a journey along the rivers of Kalimantan. The river routes offer various options ranging from slow-moving boats to speedboats. You may also arrive at the Trisakti harbor by ship from various Indonesian ports; however, be mindful that passenger ships often lack cabins and provide a less comfortable experience with limited food quality.
Getting around
You can navigate the city using several modes of transport depending on your preference for traditional or modern travel. For local experiences, choose from "angkot," "bamikro," or public shuttle microbuses, which locals often refer to as "taxi." You might also see orange-colored "bajaj" auto rickshaws on the streets, or opt for a "becak" tricycle rickshaw and an "ojek" motorcycle taxi for trips within the city. If you prefer a metered taxi, ensure you insist that the driver uses the meter.
For more modern convenience, download mobile applications to access online taxi services. Alternatively, you can hire a motorbike to explore the area on your own. These options provide various ways to traverse the city streets and reach your destinations.
Where to stay
You can choose from a variety of accommodations depending on your preferred atmosphere. If you prefer a more personal touch, stay at a homestay where you can enjoy laid-back chats with the host. For those seeking modern comforts or luxury, several hotels offer amenities such as indoor pools, hot tubs, spas, and rooftop pools. Some options feature river views or are situated near shopping centers.
- Hotel Victoria offers river views and a restaurant/bar.
- Golden Tulip Galaxy Hotel features a gym, pool, and spa with a blue glass exterior.
- Pyramid Suites Hotel provides a modern look with an indoor pool and hot tub.
- Best Western Kindai Hotel includes a rooftop pool and breakfast buffet.
- Mercure Banjarmasin is an opulent choice located near a mall.
- POP! Hotel Banjarmasin features a distinctive yellow front and jazzy name.
- Several other options provide essential amenities like air conditioning, wifi, and breakfast.
Food & drink
To experience the authentic flavors of local cuisine, venture beyond malls and food courts into the streets where locals gather. You can sample traditional street food prepared with passion or visit a nearby agrotourism area by boat on the Gampa River to find various tropical fruits such as rambutan, mangosteen, and cempedak. For those seeking specific regional specialties, look for these local favorites:
- Soto Banjar: A unique local soup served with rice cakes (lontong).
- Apam Barabai: A sweet, warm pancake turnover enjoyed with tea.
- Bingka: A creamy and sweet tapioca cake available in many flavors.
- Ketupat Kandangan: A festive rice cake recipe.
- Klepon buntut: A palm sugar-filled snack with a smooth texture and liquid filling.
- Nasi kuning Banjar: Turmeric and coconut milk rice served with snakehead fish in red sauce.
- Mie bancir: Red noodles featuring chicken and boiled duck egg in gravy.
During the month of Ramadan, the city transforms with "Pasar Wadai" markets where you can find seasonal treats like Amparan Tatak (banana pudding), Bingka Barandam, and Puracit pancakes. To complete your culinary experience, try a cup of Banjarese tea, which offers a distinct flavor compared to other varieties found across Indonesia.
What to see and do
Explore the architectural heritage of the Banjarese people, whose traditional building styles reflect a harmony with nature. You can visit the Museum Waja Sampai Ka Puting to see an authentic "Bubungan Tinggi" style house or find remnants of the old palace grounds in Kampung Kraton. The historic Masjid Sultan Suriansyah stands as the first mosque in South Kalimantan, while the modern Masjid Raya Sabilal Muhtadin offers a grander scale of worship.
Experience the river-based way of life that defines the city's identity. You can witness local farmers and traders at floating markets like Pasar Terapung Siring Banjarmasin or explore the Martapura River promenade to see the Bekantan statue and the illuminated Menara Pandang observation tower. For those seeking adventure on the water, take a boat trip along the Kelayan or Kuin rivers to visit nearby islands where you can spot proboscis monkeys at Pulau Kaget or Pulau Bakut. On weekends, you can join locals in the Pal Tujuh area for the Pasar Ahad market to enjoy traditional treats like Ketupat Kandanan and Apam.
When to go
You can expect a hot climate in Banjarmasin throughout the entire year. During the dry period from July to October, you will experience more sunshine and moderate rainfall, though the weather remains very warm.
If you visit during the monsoon season from November to June, you should prepare for heavy rains and high humidity. While the air remains hot, this period offers significantly less daily sunshine compared to the drier months.
Three days in Banjarmasin
Day one, you arrive in Banjarmasin and settle into your accommodations. You can explore the local area to learn about the history of the Sultanate and the culture of the Banjar people.
Day two, you travel through the region to experience the sights of Southern Kalimantan. You can visit nearby areas such as Martapura or explore the landmarks associated with the Banjar War and Pangeran Antasari.
Day three, you take in the local atmosphere before your departure from the city. You can enjoy the surroundings of the Barito river area before heading toward the airport for your flight to other Indonesian destinations like Jakarta or Surabaya.