Banjar, Indonesia
Region: South Kalimantan
Geographic Coordinates: -7.366700, 108.533000
Temperature Range: 25.0°C to 35.0°C (77°F to 95°F)
Climate: Tropical climate with rainy season from October to April and dry season from May to September.
Population: 203417
Language: Banjarese
Banjar, Located in the West Java province of Indonesia, Is a charming town that attracts nature lovers and adventure seekers due to its location in the foothills of Mount Ciremai. The town’s rich cultural heritage, Breathtaking landscapes, And friendly locals make it an ideal destination for tourists. One of Banjar’s most popular attractions is the Cipanas hot springs. These natural hot springs are believed to have therapeutic properties that can cure various ailments. Visitors can relax and soak in these warm waters while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Another must-visit attraction in Banjar is Pangandaran Beach.
This picturesque beach offers crystal clear waters, White sandy beaches, And palm trees swaying gently in the breeze. Visitors can enjoy swimming, Surfing or simply sunbathing on this beautiful beach. For those interested in history and culture, Banjar has several museums showcasing local artifacts and traditional crafts such as batik weaving. The Museum Kebudayaan Daerah Kabupaten Ciamis displays a vast collection of ancient artifacts from different periods such as prehistoric times to colonial era. Banjar also has several temples worth visiting such as Candi Kedaton Temple which dates back to 8th century AD.
This ancient temple features intricate carvings depicting Hindu mythology making it an important cultural site for both locals and visitors alike. The town also boasts several trekking trails that lead through lush forests with stunning waterfalls along the way such as Curug Malela waterfall which cascades down over 60 meters into a pool below creating a mesmerizing sight. foodies will be delighted with Banjar’s culinary scene featuring mouth-watering traditional dishes like Sate Maranggi (grilled beef skewers), Nasi Tutug Oncom (rice mixed with fermented soybean cake), And Soto Bandung (spicy soup made from beef broth).
Banjar offers something for everyone – from natural wonders to cultural attractions and delicious food. It is a perfect destination for those looking to experience the beauty of Indonesia beyond the usual tourist hotspots.
Important Landmarks
- Alun-Alun Kota Banjar: A town square that is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors.
- Masjid Agung Surya Raya: A grand mosque with beautiful architecture and intricate details.
- Situ Cipondoh: A scenic lake surrounded by lush greenery that offers boat rides and other recreational activities.
- Kampung Batik Kauman: An artisan village where visitors can learn about traditional batik-making techniques and purchase handmade batik products.
- Taman Wisata Alam Mangkubumi: A nature reserve with hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Museum Lambang Mangkurat Banjarbaru: A museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Banjar people.
- Pantai Kijing: A picturesque beach with white sand, clear waters, and stunning sunsets.
- Pulau Kembang (Flower Island): An island off the coast of Banjarmasin known for its vibrant flora and fauna.
- Pasar Terapung Lok Baintan (Floating Market): An iconic floating market where vendors sell fresh produce from boats on the riverbank.
- Taman Wisata Budaya Tarawangsa: A cultural park showcasing traditional music performances as well as local handicrafts such as woven baskets made from bamboo strips.
Primary Industries
- Banjar is a city located in West Java, Indonesia.
- It has several thriving industries that contribute to its economy:
- Agriculture
- Textile
- Manufacturing
- Tourism
- Retail
- Services
- Construction
- Agriculture is one of the major industries in Banjar. The city produces crops such as:
- Rice
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- Coffee
- The textile industry is also significant in Banjar. Many companies produce textiles that are exported to various countries.
- Manufacturing is another key industry in Banjar. Several companies produce goods such as textiles, furniture and food products for both domestic and international markets.
- Tourism plays a vital role in the economy of Banjar with many attractions like hot springs and waterfalls drawing visitors from all over Indonesia.
- The retail sector is also thriving with many small shops selling various goods such as clothing and electronics.
- Various service industries like banking and healthcare services cater to the needs of residents and tourists alike.
- Due to an increasing population growth rate of 2% annually according to Indonesian statistics agency (BPS), construction activities have increased significantly over time catering to both residential and commercial needs within the city limits.
Noteable History
- The Banjar War (1859-1863) was a rebellion against Dutch colonial rule led by Prince Antasari.
- Pangeran Muhammad Noor is a national hero who fought against Dutch colonialism and was exiled to Banda Neira.
- Haji Hasan Mustapa played an important role in the Indonesian independence movement as a nationalist leader.
- The Banjarmasin Sultanate is one of the oldest sultanates in Indonesia, dating back to the 16th century.
- The Barito Bridge Disaster (1950) was a tragedy where a bridge collapsed during construction, killing hundreds of workers.
- Martapura Diamond Market is one of the largest diamond markets in Southeast Asia, located in Banjar’s capital city, Martapura.
- Traditional arts and crafts such as weaving, silverwork, and woodcarving are also notable features of Banjar’s culture and history.
- The Dayak people are an indigenous group living in the region known for their unique customs and traditions.
- The Tumbang Anoi Declaration (1945) was an early declaration for Indonesian independence made by local leaders from South Kalimantan including those from Banjar region.
- The establishment of Lambung Mangkurat University is one of the most prestigious universities in South Kalimantan which is located at Jalan Brigjen H Hasan Basri No 11A Kayu Tangi Banjarmasin.
Museums and Things To See
- Pura Ulun Danu Batur Temple
- Bali Botanic Garden
- Taman Ayun Temple
- Bali Butterfly Park
- Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple
- Bali Treetop Adventure Park
- Elephant Safari Park Lodge
- Agung Rai Museum of Art
- Ubud Palace
- Tegalalang Rice Terrace
Cultural Events
- Galungan and Kuningan Festival: This is a major festival in Banjar that celebrates the victory of good over evil. It is celebrated twice a year, with the first one being Galungan and the second being Kuningan.
- Bali Arts Festival: This festival takes place in Denpasar, but many people from Banjar attend it to witness traditional Balinese dance, music, and art.
- Nyepi Day: A day of silence in Bali where people are not allowed to leave their homes or make any noise; it is celebrated on the day after New Year’s Day according to the Balinese calendar.
- Tumpek Landep: A festival that celebrates metal objects such as knives and swords which are believed to have spiritual powers.
- Saraswati Day: A day that honors Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge and wisdom.
- Omed-Omedan Festival: Also known as The Kissing Festival, this unique event takes place in Banjar Kaja Sesetan village where unmarried young men and women engage in playful kissing rituals.
- Nusa Dua Fiesta: A cultural event held annually at Nusa Dua beach resort featuring music performances, fashion shows, culinary events, arts & crafts exhibitions etc.
- Tenganan Pegringsingan Village Festival: The oldest village on Bali island still maintaining its ancient traditions holds this yearly event showcasing its unique culture through traditional dances like Mekare-kare (a mock battle using thorny pandanus leaves), weaving demonstrations etc.
Cuisine
- Soto Banjar: a traditional soup made with chicken or beef, rice noodles, and spices. You can find this dish at many local warungs (small restaurants).
- Ayam Goreng Kalasan Bu Hj. Amad: a famous fried chicken restaurant that serves crispy and flavorful fried chicken.
- Nasi Campur Pak Darmin: a local favorite that offers mixed rice with various side dishes such as grilled chicken, tofu, tempeh, and vegetables.
- Bakso Solo Samrat: a meatball restaurant that serves delicious beef or chicken meatballs in broth with noodles.
- Martabak Telor Khas Banjarmasin: a popular street food snack that consists of savory stuffed pancakes filled with eggs and minced meat.
- Warung Makan Sari Rasa: a cozy restaurant serving Indonesian comfort food such as nasi goreng (fried rice) and mie goreng (fried noodles).
- Es Pisang Ijo Pak Jumadi: a dessert stall selling sweet treats made from banana wrapped in green jelly served with coconut milk syrup.
- Rumah Makan Padang Sederhana Bu Yati: an authentic Padang-style restaurant serving spicy curries and grilled meats accompanied by steamed rice and vegetables on banana leaf plates called lontong.
- Taman Kota Banjar – a public park with a playground and jogging track.
- Taman Wisata Alam Gunung Cikuray – hiking and camping site in the mountainous area of Banjar.
- Pantai Santolo – a beautiful beach with water sports activities such as surfing, swimming, and fishing.
- Air Terjun Curug Cijalu – waterfall with trekking trails and picnic areas.
- Danau Situ Patenggang – lake with boating facilities and scenic views for photography.
- Taman Bunga Nusantara – flower garden with various species of plants, walking paths, and photo spots.
- Masjid Agung Kota Banjar – historic mosque for sightseeing.
- Museum Rumah Kelahiran Haji Darjad- cultural museum showcasing the history of Banjar.
- Pasar Tradisional Banjar- traditional market to experience local food culture.
- Puncak Darajat Pass Resort- hot spring resort offering outdoor activities like horse riding, ATV rides etc.