South Kalimantan

Kalimantan Selatan

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Kalimantan Selatan

South Kalimantan is a province on the island of Borneo, officially established on August 14, 1950, with Banjarmasin as its capital. Known as 'Bumi Lambung Mangkurat', the region spans approximately 38,744 km² and is defined by major rivers such as the Barito and Martapura. Its population is ethnically diverse, with the Banjar people as the majority, alongside Dayak, Javanese, Bugis, and Madurese communities. Strongly influenced by Islamic culture, South Kalimantan is historically linked to the powerful Banjar Kingdom, a key center of trade and Islamic dissemination in Borneo. Today, the province’s economy thrives on mining, agriculture, fisheries, forestry, plantations, and trade. Tourism highlights include floating markets, the Meratus Mountains, Dayak Meratus culture, and iconic Banjar culinary specialties such as Soto Banjar.

Best Time To Visit

June – September for better weather, easier outdoor activities, and clearer river conditions.

Climate

Tropical rainforest climate with warm temperatures (24–32°C) year-round. Heavy rainfall typically occurs between November and March.

Travel Etiquette in South Kalimantan

• Respect and participate politely in local cultural attractions.
• Maintain cleanliness in public places and natural sites.
• Show courtesy and follow local etiquette when speaking or acting.
• Support local artisans by purchasing Sasirangan and purun crafts.
• Dress appropriately, especially in conservative or religious areas.

Things to Avoid in South Kalimantan

• Do not speak harshly, loudly, or disrespectfully toward locals.
• Avoid recording religious or cultural rituals without permission.
• Do not dress immodestly in public or sensitive cultural areas.
• Do not litter in rivers, villages, or natural attractions.
• Avoid causing disturbances or acting arrogantly as it goes against local values.

Travel Tips

• Be respectful and polite when attending cultural events or entering villages.
• Dress modestly, especially in Islamic-majority areas or religious sites.
• Always ask permission before taking photos during rituals or ceremonies.
• Keep rivers and environment clean as waterways are vital to local life.
• Speak softly and avoid confrontational behavior, as locals value harmony.

Popular Foods

• Soto Banjar — aromatic chicken soup with spices and lontong.
• Ketupat Kandangan — smoked fish served with coconut gravy.
• Gangan Asam Banjar — sour fish soup with local herbs.
• Amparan Tatak — layered banana and coconut milk dessert.
• Iwak Pakasam — fermented fish delicacy.
• Lontong Orari — rice cake dish with savory coconut broth.

Top Activities

• River cruising through Barito and Martapura on traditional kelotok boats.
• Exploring the Meratus Highlands for trekking and nature adventures.
• Visiting Lok Baintan Floating Market during sunrise.
• Shopping for Sasirangan fabrics and purun woven crafts.
• Enjoying local Banjar cuisine across Banjarmasin and Martapura.
• Watching traditional performances such as Baksa Kembang and Radap Rahayu.
• Attending cultural festivals including Haul Guru Sekumpul and Floating Market Festival.