Discover Kalimantan – The Indonesian Borneo Region
Kalimantan is the Indonesian territory that occupies about 73% of the island of Borneo, with a total land area of approximately 540,000 square kilometres. It is divided into five provinces and is known for its vast tropical rainforest, rich biodiversity, and natural resources.
Kalimantan plays an important role in Indonesia’s economy due to its timber, mining, and oil & gas industries, although the region is also focusing more on sustainable development and eco-tourism.
What Is Kalimantan Famous For?
1️⃣ Vast Tropical Rainforest & Wildlife
Kalimantan is home to one of the world’s oldest rainforests and is a natural habitat for the endangered Bornean orangutan.
Visitors can explore conservation areas and experience wildlife observation in their natural environment.
2️⃣ River Culture and Floating Markets
Kalimantan is famous for traditional river lifestyle and floating markets, especially at Sungai Martapura Floating Market, where locals trade fruits, food, and handicrafts from boats.
3️⃣ Natural Resources
The region is rich in coal, gold, timber, and petroleum resources, making it one of Indonesia’s important industrial and mining areas.
4️⃣ Indigenous Culture
Kalimantan is home to many indigenous Dayak communities, known for traditional longhouses, handicrafts, and cultural festivals.
Where to Go in Kalimantan?
🌆Balikpapan
A modern coastal city known for business, oil industry, and gateway tourism.
🌳Samarinda
The capital of East Kalimantan, famous for riverside scenery and cultural attractions.
🏛 Pontianak
Known as the city located exactly on the equator line, marked by the Tugu Khatulistiwa Pontianak.
🌿Palangkaraya
Famous for its planned city layout and natural rainforest surroundings.
🌟Nusantara
Nusantara is the planned new capital city of Indonesia, designed to replace Jakarta as the country’s administrative centre.
🏮Singkawang
Singkawang is often called the City of Thousand Temples because of its strong Chinese cultural influence and numerous traditional temples.
Why Visit Kalimantan?
- One of the world’s largest tropical rainforest areas
- Unique wildlife including orangutans
- River-based culture and floating markets
- Rich natural resources
- Eco-tourism and adventure travel
Kalimantan offers a more natural and less crowded travel experience compared to many urban destinations, making it ideal for nature lovers and cultural explorers.