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Kalimantan Tengah

Kalimantan Tengah, Indonesia

Journey into the Heart of Borneo: Discover Kalimantan Tengah Step off the beaten track and into the untamed beauty of Kalimantan Tengah, the heart of Indonesian Borneo. This province, draped in emerald rainforests and cr…

#Central Kalimantan#Borneo#Rainforest#Tropical#Indonesia

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

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

Top Hotels in Kalimantan Tengah

Top Flights to Kalimantan Tengah

Popular activities

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

Tours

Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation

Visit the BOS Foundation to learn about orangutan rehabilitation and conservation efforts.

Dayak Cultural Experience

Uncover the culture of the Dayak people, traditional inhabitants of Borneo.

Palangka Raya City Tour

Take a tour of the capital city of Central Kalimantan to experience local life and important landmarks.

Shopping

Shopping at Pasar Kahayan

Explore local vendors selling traditional handicrafts, textiles, and food.

Outdoor

Explore Sebangau National Park

Discover the rich biodiversity of Sebangau National Park, home to orangutans and other unique wildlife.

Discover Tanjung Puting National Park

Explore the dense jungles and vibrant wildlife in Tanjung Puting National Park by river cruise.

Location videos

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

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kalimantan Tengah.

Currency

Rp | IDR | Indonesian Rupiah

Population

Information not available.

Local guide

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

What people love

Kalimantan Tengah, also known as Central Kalimantan, is a beautiful and diverse region located on the island of Borneo in Indonesia. Here are some pros of traveling to Kalimantan Tengah:

Breathtaking Natural Beauty: Kalimantan Tengah is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including lush rainforests, rivers, and mountains. Travelers can explore the rich biodiversity of the region, with opportunities to see unique flora and fauna such as orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and exotic bird species.
Cultural Immersion: Visitors to Kalimantan Tengah can experience the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous Dayak people. There are opportunities to visit traditional longhouses, witness traditional dances and rituals, and learn about local customs and traditions.
Adventure Activities: The region offers a range of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts, including trekking through the rainforest, river cruising, and wildlife spotting. Travelers can also embark on excursions to remote villages and participate in community-based tourism initiatives.
Sustainable Tourism: Kalimantan Tengah is committed to sustainable tourism practices, with a focus on conservation and responsible travel. Visitors can support local communities and environmental initiatives through eco-friendly tours and accommodations.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Destination: Kalimantan Tengah is less touristy compared to other popular destinations in Indonesia, offering a more authentic and immersive travel experience for those looking to explore a lesser-known region.

Overall, traveling to Kalimantan Tengah provides a unique opportunity to discover the natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure offerings of this hidden gem in Indonesia.

Enjoy your trip to Kalimantan Tengah!

What to know

Kalimantan Tengah, also known as Central Kalimantan in Indonesia, is a beautiful destination with rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. However, there are some cons to consider when traveling to this region:

Environmental concerns: Central Kalimantan has faced challenges related to deforestation, forest fires, and habitat destruction due to palm oil plantations and other industries. Air quality can be affected by haze from forest fires, which may impact visibility and health.
Limited infrastructure: Some areas in Central Kalimantan may have limited infrastructure and basic amenities compared to more developed tourist destinations. Traveling between remote areas can be challenging, with limited transportation options and road conditions.
Health concerns: Malaria and other tropical diseases are prevalent in certain parts of Central Kalimantan. Travelers are advised to take necessary precautions, such as taking anti-malarial medication and using insect repellent.
Cultural sensitivities: Central Kalimantan is home to diverse indigenous communities with unique traditions and customs. Travelers should be respectful of local beliefs and practices to avoid cultural misunderstandings.
Language barrier: While Indonesian is the official language, some indigenous communities in Central Kalimantan may speak their own languages or dialects. Communication can be a challenge in remote areas where English may not be widely spoken.

It's important to research and plan your trip carefully to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Central Kalimantan.

Kalimantan Tengah, or Central Kalimantan, is a province located on the island of Borneo in Indonesia. The region is known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse ecosystems, and significant resources. Here's a detailed history of the area:

Early History

Indigenous Inhabitants: Central Kalimantan is traditionally home to the Dayak people, who are the indigenous population of Borneo. The Dayak tribes have a rich cultural heritage, with unique traditions, languages, and social systems.

Colonial Period

Dutch Influence: During the colonial period, the Dutch East India Company (VOC) and later the Dutch colonial administration exerted influence over the region, although much of the interior remained under the control of local tribes. The Dutch established control over parts of Borneo in the 19th century, including areas that are now part of Central Kalimantan.

Post-Independence

Formation as a Province: Central Kalimantan was officially established as a separate province of Indonesia on May 23, 1957. Before this, it was part of the larger Kalimantan region during the early years of Indonesia's independence from Dutch rule in 1949.
Development and Transmigration: In the following decades, the Indonesian government encouraged transmigration programs to relocate people from densely populated islands like Java to less populated areas like Central Kalimantan. This led to significant demographic changes in the region.

Recent History

Environmental and Social Issues: Central Kalimantan has faced challenges related to deforestation, illegal logging, and land conversion for palm oil plantations, affecting both the environment and local communities. Efforts have been made to address these issues through conservation initiatives and sustainable development programs.
Cultural Revival: There have been efforts to preserve and promote Dayak culture, including their traditional crafts, dances, and festivals. The Dayak community plays a vital role in the cultural identity of Central Kalimantan.

Significant Figures

Tjilik Riwut: A prominent figure in Central Kalimantan's history, Tjilik Riwut was a Dayak leader and one of the region's first governors. He played a critical role in advocating for the rights and development of the Dayak people and the establishment of Central Kalimantan as a province.

Important Landmarks

Sebangau National Park: This national park is notable for its peat swamp forests and diverse wildlife, including orangutans. It is a vital conservation area in Central Kalimantan.
Tanjung Puting National Park: Known for its efforts in orangutan conservation, this park attracts researchers and tourists and is crucial for wildlife protection in the region.
Katingan River: This river is significant for its ecological importance and as a part of the local Dayak people's cultural and daily life.

Central Kalimantan continues to evolve, balancing development with the preservation of its unique cultural and natural heritage. The province is working towards sustainable growth while addressing environmental and social challenges.