Kalimantan Selatan
· ID

Kalimantan Selatan

Kalimantan Selatan, Indonesia

Venture into the Heart of Borneo: Discover South Kalimantan South Kalimantan, nestled in the heart of Indonesian Borneo, beckons travelers seeking adventure off the beaten path. This captivating province offers a mesmeri…

#Tropical climate#Rainforest#Borneo island#Cultural diversity#Ecotourism
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Kalimantan Selatan.

Top Hotels in Kalimantan Selatan

Top Flights to Kalimantan Selatan

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Kalimantan Selatan.

Tours

Visit Loksado Waterfall

A stunning waterfall located in the Loksado area, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Explore Banjarmasin City Tour

Discover the cultural and historical sites of Banjarmasin, the capital of South Kalimantan.

Shopping

Explore Pasar Terapung Lok Baintan

Experience the traditional floating market of Kalimantan Selatan.

Visit Martapura Diamond Market

Famous for its diamond and jewelry shops, Martapura is a must-visit for shopping enthusiasts.

Outdoor

Kembang Island Adventure

Discover the rich biodiversity and wildlife on Kembang Island, known for its population of Proboscis monkeys.

Meratus Mountains Trekking

Trek through the stunning landscapes of the Meratus Mountains for a unique outdoor experience.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kalimantan Selatan.

Currency
Rp | IDR | Indonesian Rupiah
Population
Information not available.
Languages
Banjarese, Indonesian

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Kalimantan Selatan.

What people love

Kalimantan Selatan, also known as South Kalimantan, is a province located on the island of Borneo in Indonesia. Traveling to Kalimantan Selatan offers a unique and diverse experience for visitors. Here are some pros of visiting this region:

  1. Cultural Diversity: Kalimantan Selatan is home to various indigenous tribes such as the Dayak people. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about the rich cultural heritage of these tribes through traditional dances, music, and handicrafts.

  2. Nature and Wildlife: The province is known for its lush rainforests, rivers, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of Kalimantan Selatan by taking boat trips along the rivers, visiting national parks like Tanjung Puting, and observing orangutans in their natural habitat.

  3. Floating Markets: One of the unique attractions in Kalimantan Selatan is its floating markets, where locals sell fresh produce and goods from boats on the river. Visitors can experience the vibrant atmosphere of these markets and sample local delicacies.

  4. Adventure Activities: The province offers various adventure activities such as trekking, jungle camping, and river rafting. Visitors can immerse themselves in the natural surroundings and enjoy outdoor adventures in Kalimantan Selatan.

  5. Culinary Delights: Kalimantan Selatan is known for its delicious traditional cuisine, which features a mix of flavors influenced by indigenous tribes and neighboring regions. Visitors can savor local dishes such as soto Banjar, amparan tatak, and various seafood dishes.

Overall, traveling to Kalimantan Selatan provides a unique opportunity to explore the cultural heritage, natural beauty, and adventure activities of this diverse Indonesian province.

What to know

Kalimantan Selatan, also known as South Kalimantan, has several drawbacks that travelers should consider before visiting:

  1. Weather: Kalimantan Selatan has a tropical climate with high humidity and frequent rainfall, which can make outdoor activities uncomfortable. The region is also prone to flooding during the rainy season.

  2. Health Risks: Travelers to Kalimantan Selatan should be aware of potential health risks such as mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever and malaria. It is important to take necessary precautions, such as using insect repellent and taking anti-malarial medication.

  3. Infrastructure: The infrastructure in Kalimantan Selatan may not be as developed as in other parts of Indonesia. Travelers may encounter challenges such as poor road conditions, limited access to healthcare facilities, and unreliable public transportation.

  4. Environmental Concerns: Kalimantan Selatan is known for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty, but the region has been affected by deforestation and illegal logging. Travelers should be mindful of their impact on the environment and support sustainable tourism practices.

  5. Cultural Sensitivities: Travelers to Kalimantan Selatan should be respectful of the local customs and traditions of the indigenous Dayak people. It is important to educate oneself about the culture and history of the region to avoid unintentionally offending the local community.

Overall, while Kalimantan Selatan offers unique cultural and natural attractions, travelers should be prepared for the challenges that come with visiting a less developed region in Indonesia.

Kalimantan Selatan, also known as South Kalimantan, is a province located on the island of Borneo in Indonesia. It has a rich history influenced by various indigenous cultures, colonial powers, and its strategic location.

Ancient and Pre-colonial History:

  • Early Inhabitants: The area that is now South Kalimantan was originally inhabited by the Dayak people, indigenous tribes known for their distinct cultures and traditions.
  • Hindu and Buddhist Influence: Historically, parts of Kalimantan were influenced by Hinduism and Buddhism, as seen in the spread of these religions through trade and cultural exchange from Indian subcontinent influences.

Colonial Period:

  • Sultanate of Banjar: The region was once part of the Sultanate of Banjar, which emerged in the 16th century. The sultanate played a crucial role in trade, particularly in pepper, gold, and diamonds. The influence of Islam spread during this period.
  • Dutch Colonization: During the 17th century, the Dutch East India Company (VOC) made contact with the Sultanate of Banjar. The Dutch gradually increased their influence, culminating in the formal colonization of the region in the 19th century after the Banjar War (1859-1863), a significant conflict between local forces and the Dutch.

Modern History:

  • Independence and Integration into Indonesia: After World War II and the subsequent struggle for Indonesian independence from Dutch colonial rule, Kalimantan Selatan became part of the Republic of Indonesia in 1950.
  • Administrative Changes: Initially part of a larger administrative division, the province of South Kalimantan was officially established in its current form in 1956.

Notable Historical Figures:

  • Prince Antasari: A prominent leader during the Banjar War against Dutch colonial forces. He is revered as a national hero in Indonesia.
  • Sultan Adam of Banjar: Known for his efforts to reform the sultanate and his resistance against Dutch encroachment.

Important Landmarks:

  • Sasirangan Village: Known for its traditional sasirangan fabric, a tie-dye technique indigenous to the Banjar people.
  • Martapura Diamond Market: Reflecting the region's historical association with diamond mining and trade.
  • Loksado Hills: Not only a natural landmark but also a cultural site with insights into the local Dayak culture.
  • Sabilal Muhtadin Grand Mosque: One of the largest mosques in South Kalimantan, located in the provincial capital Banjarmasin.

Cultural Significance:

South Kalimantan continues to be a melting pot of cultures, with influences from the indigenous Dayak, the Banjar majority who are predominantly Muslim, and various other ethnic groups. The province is known for its distinct traditional music, dance, and cuisine, such as the popular dish Soto Banjar.

South Kalimantan's history is marked by its strategic importance in trade routes, its rich natural resources, and its diverse cultural heritage.