Banjarmasin used to be the capital of South Kalimantan, but now Banjarbaru has taken its place. You won't want to miss a visit to this charming city with its stunning network of rivers and canals that give it a unique natural beauty and charm.
What sets Banjarmasin apart from other cities is its strong river culture. You can explore this culture with traditional boats called "klotok" and discover the daily life of locals who depend heavily on the river. And don't forget to catch the breathtaking sunrise over the river, also known as "Pagelaran Matahari."
If you're a foodie, Banjarmasin has plenty of traditional dishes to offer, such as soto banjar and ketupat kandangan. And if you're looking for souvenirs, make sure to check out the traditional markets for unique handicrafts like bamboo weaving and silver crafts.
But what makes Banjarmasin truly special is its Dayak cultural tradition. The Dayak tribe has a rich and fascinating culture, complete with interesting dances and traditional ceremonies. It's an experience you won't want to miss during your visit to this destination.
Banjarmasin, which is also referred to as the "City of a Thousand Rivers," provides a distinctive opportunity to explore its numerous rivers by boat. You can rent a motorboat from the dock to take a river tour of the city. The rental prices for the boat may vary depending on the route you choose, but it is possible to negotiate with the dock keeper. It is recommended to make the payment in cash.
Syamsudin Noor Airport is the main gateway to Banjarmasin, with domestic flights from various major cities in Indonesia. If you come from outside Kalimantan Island, flying is the best option. From the airport, Banjarmasin can be reached by taxi or other transportation in about 30 minutes.
To learn more about Banjarmasin's history and culture, be sure to visit the Wasaka Museum. The museum boasts an impressive collection of historical artifacts and information about the Banjar kingdom that once thrived in the region. Besides, you can explore Rumah Bubungan Tinggi, a traditional Banjar architecture that showcases the cultural richness of the area.
Banjarmasin experiences a wet tropical climate with rainfall occurring throughout the year. Nevertheless, the months of May through September are typically drier than the rest of the year, making it an opportune time to visit the city without the concern of excessive rain.
When you're in Banjarmasin, make sure to give their typical dishes a try. You won't regret trying out the soto Banjar, ketupat Kandangan, and nasi mandi, and remember to taste the delicious fresh seafood, like grilled fish and crab with Padang sauce. You can also treat yourself to some of Banjarmasin's typical culinary delights, such as goat satay, rawon, and sweet martabak for dessert.
Wadai Barito Market is a known traditional market in Banjarmasin, known for offering a wide variety of local products, handicrafts, and typical cuisine. One must try Banjarmasin's signature snacks, such as Wadai Ipau, Wadai Kacamata, and Wadai Panggal while visiting the market.
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