Central Kalimantan

Central Kalimantan

Kalimantan Tengah

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Kalimantan Tengah

Central Kalimantan is a province on the island of Borneo with Palangka Raya as its capital city. Dominated by vast tropical rainforests, large rivers such as the Kahayan and Barito, and abundant natural resources including timber, coal, and gold, the province is culturally rooted in strong Dayak traditions. Known as one of the 'lungs of the world', Central Kalimantan plays an essential role in preserving Indonesia’s rainforest ecosystem. Its people live harmoniously with nature through a deep cultural philosophy and respect for the environment.

Best Time To Visit

June – September for drier conditions and better access to river and forest areas.

Climate

Tropical rainforest climate with warm temperatures (24–32°C) and heavy rainfall during the monsoon, especially from November to March.

Highlights

Travel Etiquette in Central Kalimantan

  • • Respect Dayak customs, especially during ceremonies or village visits.
  • • Dress appropriately and behave politely around local communities.
  • • Ask for permission before entering Betang longhouses or cultural sites.
  • • Support local artisans by purchasing traditional crafts.
  • • Keep the environment clean and follow conservation guidelines.

Things to Avoid in Central Kalimantan

  • • Do not enter sacred forests or adat areas without permission.
  • • Avoid loud or disrespectful behavior, especially during rituals.
  • • Do not damage nature or wildlife, including illegal logging or hunting.
  • • Do not take photos of ceremonies without asking elders or organizers.
  • • Avoid mocking or mishandling Dayak cultural symbols and artifacts.

Travel Tips

  • • Show respect when entering Betang longhouses or Dayak villages.
  • • Dress modestly when attending cultural events or visiting spiritual sites.
  • • Always ask permission before photographing rituals or private areas.
  • • Keep forests, rivers, and sacred spaces clean and undisturbed.
  • • Follow local guidance when traveling through protected or sacred forests.
  • • Be polite and soft-spoken, as communities value harmony and humility.

Popular Foods

  • • Wadi — fermented fish or meat, a traditional Dayak delicacy.
  • • Juhu Umbut Rotan — rattan shoot vegetable dish.
  • • Ikan Baung Bakar — grilled river fish with local spices.
  • • Kue Apam — traditional steamed cake served during ceremonies.
  • • Kelakai Stir-fry — unique wild fern dish native to Borneo.

Top Activities

  • • River cruising along Sungai Sekonyer to observe orangutans.
  • • Exploring tropical rainforests and wildlife in Tanjung Puting.
  • • Visiting traditional Betang longhouses in Kapuas and Katingan.
  • • Cultural immersion in Dayak villages including dance and ritual observations.
  • • Hiking around Bukit Tangkiling and Bukit Batu.
  • • Trying local Dayak cuisine and purchasing handcrafted rattan or beadwork.
  • • Joining or witnessing the Tiwah ceremony when permitted.

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