Banjarmasin, Indonesia
Region: South Kalimantan
Geographic Coordinates: -3.320000, 114.592000
Temperature Range: 25.0°C to 33.0°C (77°F to 91°F)
Climate: Tropical climate with high humidity and rainfall throughout the year, with a wet season from November to May and a dry season from June to October.
Population: 692793
Language: Indonesian
Banjarmasin is a bustling city located in the southern part of the Indonesian island of Borneo. It is the capital city of South Kalimantan province and has a population of over 700, 000 people. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, Scenic waterways, And vibrant markets. One of the most striking features of Banjarmasin are its many rivers and canals. The city is often referred to as the Venice of the East due to its extensive network of waterways that crisscross through it.
These waterways are used for transportation by locals who travel by boats called klotok or jukung, Which are traditional wooden vessels with colorful canopies. The floating market in Banjarmasin is one of its most iconic attractions. Every morning, Local vendors gather on boats to sell fresh produce such as fruits, Vegetables, And fish directly from their boats to customers on other boats passing by. This unique market has been operating for centuries and offers visitors an authentic glimpse into local life.
Another must-visit attraction in Banjarmasin is Sabilal Muhtadin Mosque which boasts impressive architecture inspired by traditional Malay style with intricate carvings and colorful tiles adorning every inch. Built-in 1979 on a hill overlooking the river Martapura it stands tall at 99 meters high making it one tallest mosque in Indonesia.
For history buffs interested in learning more about Banjarmasin’s past there’s Museum Lambung Mangkurat which displays artifacts related to South Kalimantan culture including traditional clothing like sarongs woven from silk threads or cotton fibers mixed with golden threads; weapons such as swords made from iron or bronze; musical instruments like gongs made from copper alloys; jewelry pieces like necklaces made from precious metals such as gold or silver. Foodies will also find plenty to enjoy in Banjarmasin thanks to its diverse culinary scene.
Local dishes include soto banjar, A flavorful soup made with chicken or beef broth, Rice noodles, And spices; ketupat kandangan, A type of rice cake served with spicy sauce and vegetables; and pindang patin, A sour fish soup that is popular in the region. Overall Banjarmasin is a unique destination that offers visitors an authentic experience of Indonesian culture. From its scenic waterways to its vibrant markets and delicious cuisine there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this charming city on the island of Borneo.
- Floating Market Lok Baintan
- Martapura Diamond Market
- Sabilal Muhtadin Mosque
- Kelayan River Park
- Taman Siring Banjarmasin
- Sultan Suriansyah Mosque
- Lambung Mangkurat Museum
- Pandang Siring Monument
- Duta Mall Banjarmasin
- Masjid Raya Islamic Center Banjarmasin
- Agriculture: Banjarmasin is known for its rice and rubber plantations.
- Fishing: The city has a thriving fishing industry due to its location on the Barito River.
- Mining: There are several mining companies operating in Banjarmasin that extract coal, gold, and other minerals.
- Timber Industry: The city has a large timber industry that produces wood products for export.
- Handicrafts: Banjarmasin is famous for its handicrafts such as woven baskets, mats, and pottery.
- Tourism: The city attracts tourists with its cultural heritage sites like the floating market, traditional houses, and mosques.
- Retail Industry: There are several shopping centers and malls in Banjarmasin that cater to local residents’ needs.
- Transportation Industry: Due to its location on the river, there are many boat operators providing transportation services to nearby towns and villages.
Overall, agriculture remains the primary source of income for most people living in Banjarmasin followed by mining and fishing industries which contribute significantly to employment opportunities within the region.
- The establishment of the Banjar Kingdom in the 14th century, which transformed into a significant hub for trade and Islamic learning in Southeast Asia.
- The arrival of Dutch colonial forces in the 19th century, who took control over the area and introduced modern infrastructure.
- The rebellion led by Prince Antasari in 1859 against Dutch colonial rule, which was eventually suppressed but raised awareness about nationalist sentiments among locals.
- The involvement of Banjarmasin residents in Indonesian independence movements during the mid-20th century, including support for Sukarno’s declaration of independence on August 17, 1945.
- Notable personalities connected with Banjarmasin include Syarifuddin Prawiranegara (a distinguished nationalist leader during Indonesia’s struggle for independence), Haji Muhammad Arsyad Al-Banjari (an influential Islamic scholar), and Hasan Basri Durin (a renowned poet).
- In recent times, Banjarmasin has gained recognition for its efforts to promote eco-tourism through initiatives such as river clean-up projects and sustainable development programs aimed at preserving local culture and natural resources.
- Museum Lambung Mangkurat
- Floating Market Lok Baintan
- Sabilal Muhtadin Mosque
- Taman Siring Banjarmasin
- Masjid Raya Sabilal Muhtadin Banjarmasin
- Menara Pandang Banjarmasin (Banjarmasin Viewing Tower)
- Kampung Sasirangan (Sasirangan Village)
- Pasar Terapung Kuin (Kuin Floating Market)
- Bukit Batu Kencana Nature Tourism Park
- Wasaka Museum of Dayak Culture and Tradition
- Banjar Festival: This is a cultural festival that celebrates the traditions and customs of the Banjar people, the indigenous ethnic group of South Kalimantan.
- River Festival: This is an annual event that takes place on the Barito River in Banjarmasin. It includes boat races, cultural performances, and food stalls.
- Islamic New Year: Celebrated in September or October, this holiday marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar year and is celebrated with prayers and feasting.
- Maulid Nabi Muhammad: This is a celebration of Prophet Muhammad’s birthday, which falls on different dates each year according to the Islamic calendar.
- Chinese New Year: Celebrated by Banjarmasin’s Chinese community in January or February with dragon dances, fireworks, and traditional foods like dumplings.
- Independence Day: August 17th marks Indonesia’s independence from Dutch colonial rule in 1945 and is celebrated with parades and flag-raising ceremonies.
- Haul Akbar Syekh Abdul Qodir Jaelani: A religious festival that commemorates the death anniversary of Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jilani, a prominent Sufi saint who founded the Qadiriyya order of Sufism in Baghdad during medieval times.
- Tabuik Festival- A Muslim festival held annually on Muharram 10th (the first month of Islamic calendar) to commemorate Ashura Day (the day when Imam Hussein was killed).
- Soto Banjar: a traditional soup made with chicken or beef broth, rice noodles, vegetables, and spices. You can find it at many street food stalls around the city.
- Pempek Palembang: a type of fish cake served with vinegar sauce and sliced cucumber. You can try it at Pempek Pak Raden or Pempek Kapal Selam.
- Martabak Mesir: a savory pancake filled with eggs, meat, and vegetables. Try it at Martabak Mesir Bangka or Martabak Mesir Masjid Raya.
- Ayam Penyet: fried chicken that is smashed to make it more tender and served with sambal (spicy sauce). Check out Ayam Penyet Bu Kris or Ayam Penyet Ria for this dish.
- Seafood dishes: Banjarmasin is located near the coast so there are plenty of seafood options available such as grilled fish or prawns cooked in coconut milk sauce known as Gulai Ikan Kuah Santan.
- Warung Makan Sederhana: This restaurant serves traditional Indonesian dishes such as Nasi Campur (mixed rice) and Gado-Gado (vegetable salad).
