10 Best Tourist Destinations in South Kalimantan for a Holiday Experience
Discover a variety of South Kalimantan tourist attractions, from floating markets to beaches and mountains, for an unforgettable holiday experience.
South Kalimantan has a wealth of diverse tourism. You can find natural, cultural, religious, and even unique tourism such as floating markets. Here are recommendations for the 10 best tourist destinations in South Kalimantan that you must visit.
1. Floating Market
The Floating Market in Banjarmasin is one of the main icons of South Kalimantan. Located at the mouth of the Kuin River and the waters of the Martapura River, this market offers a unique shopping experience on a boat (jukung) which is typical of Banjar.
Every morning, from after dawn until 9 am, traders sell a variety of agricultural products, food and typical souvenirs at this floating market. For tourists, the Floating Market is the perfect place to experience local wisdom and enjoy stunning river views.
2. Flower Island
Kembang Island is located in the middle of the Barito River in Barito Kuala Regency. The island is a natural delta inhabited by exotic species of monkeys and birds.
Kembang Island is famous for its distinctive lush trees, creating a comfortable habitat for various wildlife. Tourists who visit here need to cross using a jukung because the location is in the middle of the river.
When you arrive, you will be greeted by a crowd of friendly monkeys, but stay alert because these monkeys are often mischievous. Bringing snacks for them can add to the excitement of your vacation on Kembang Island.
3. Sultan Adam Mandiangin Grand Forest Park (Tahura)
Tahura Sultan Adam Mandiangin is a natural tourist destination located about 1 hour from Banjarmasin. With an area of 112,000 hectares, this forest park offers the natural beauty of Kalimantan with lush trees and fresh air.
Part of the Meratus Geopark, Tahura Sultan Adam Mandiangin offers various hiking, trekking spots, and beautiful mountain views. In addition, there is also a mini zoo in this area, suitable for family visits.
4. Kahung Valley Waterfall
Lembah Kahung Waterfall is a hidden gem in South Kalimantan. To reach this location, the journey begins by heading to Riam Kanan Reservoir, about 40 minutes from Martapura, and continues using a kelotok (motorboat) to Belangian Village in Aranio District.
Once there, tourists will be treated to natural scenery in the form of a beautiful waterfall with clear water and a calming natural atmosphere.
5. Tabanio Beach
Tabanio Beach in Tanah Laut Regency is one of the natural beach destinations and offers a peaceful atmosphere. This beach has a stretch of white sand and calm waves, making it an ideal location for swimming, playing in the sand, or simply relaxing by the sea.
Towards dusk, the panorama of the sunset with its golden orange color makes the atmosphere of the beach even more enchanting. This beach is perfect for those of you who want to vacation away from the crowds.
6. Rimpi Pelaihari Hill
Rimpi Hill in Pelaihari is a hilly tourist destination that resembles the panorama in New Zealand. Its location, which can be reached from Banjarmasin City, makes it easily accessible.
This hill offers stunning green scenery, with a vast expanse of green grass. Suitable for tourists who want to enjoy fresh air and beautiful natural scenery, Bukit Rimpi is the right place to capture moments with the backdrop of the Kalimantan mountains.
7. Pelaihari Labyrinth Park
If you like challenges, Pelaihari Labyrinth Park in South Kalimantan is a destination worth trying. The labyrinth here is made of real plants, not synthetic, so it gives a natural impression.
Around the labyrinth, there is also a deer park and Kalimantan buffalo, adding to the attraction for visitors. This park is also a great place to take pictures and relax with family or friends.
8. Matang Kaladan Hill
Matang Kaladan Hill is a destination that offers stunning views of the lake and forest. The location is not far from Tahura Sultan Adam.
From the top of this hill, you can enjoy the view of the reservoir with small islands in the middle, creating a unique and exotic natural atmosphere. Matang Kaladan Hill also has various instagrammable photo spots with a charming panoramic background.
9. Sultan Suriansyah Mosque
Sultan Suriansyah Mosque in Banjarmasin is the oldest mosque in South Kalimantan, built in the 16th century. This mosque has important historical value, because it is one of the witnesses to the development of Islam in this area.
The Sultan Suriansyah Mosque has a stage architecture with typical Kalimantan carvings and a tiered roof similar to the Great Mosque of Demak. For Muslim tourists, this mosque can also be a fun religious tourism destination.
10. Martapura Diamond Market
After you are satisfied exploring natural tourist destinations, take the time to stop by the Martapura Diamond Market in Banjar Regency.
Martapura is famous as a diamond processing center, and in this market you can find a variety of diamond and precious stone jewelry sold at affordable prices. This market is an ideal place to hunt for unique and valuable souvenirs from South Kalimantan.
South Kalimantan has a variety of tourist destinations that offer their own uniqueness. Starting from traditional markets on the water, delta islands with unique animal species, to beaches and hills with extraordinary views.
Make sure to plan your trip well, considering the distance between destinations in South Kalimantan is quite far.
However, all the effort and time you spend will be paid off with a vacation experience full of impressions and unforgettable natural beauty, especially at Teluk Tamiang Beach.