Banjarmasin

Description

Banjarmasin is the largest city in South Borneo Province, Indonesia, known as the City of A Thousand Rivers—”Kota Seribu Sungai”. Banjarmasin is famous for its natural attractions, traditional villages, and architecture. This city also has amazing local delicacies as well as artistic accessories and garments.

The icon of local centers in Banjarmasin is its floating markets! The Lok Baintan floating market and the Muara Kuin floating market are the most famous ones. Handicrafts, cuisine, fresh produce, and many more are sold here! These ancient sites dating back to the 1500s are preserved as one of Indonesia’s heritage. Visitors can rent a klotok or jukung (boats) to board along the river! The view of the local hustle n’ bustle mixed with sunset and the surrounding sceneries is priceless.

Now, let’s get familiar with the rest of Banjarmasin! Kembang Island in the middle of the Barito river serves as a sanctuary for various animals. Thousands of long-tailed macaques claimed the island as their habitat! As a city with its thousand rivers, Banjarmasin is also the spot for river sports. Try out “arung jeram” or rafting in the Kambang River. Visitors can also relish in local cuisine and gaze upon the exotic landscape right by the river. For another site with breathtaking views, venture to the Matang Kaladan Hill just at the top of Tahura Forest where it is surrounded by sights of blue lakes and green lands.

Lastly, don’t forget a trip to Kampung Sasirangan! This is where Banjarmasin’s traditional garments are produced.

Nearby Airports

Banjarmasin is served by the Syamsudin Noor International Airport. There are taxis and buses from the airport to town centers. Taxis usually cost around Rp 100,000. Buses are available as well that are available from 08.00—18.00 GMT+8 costing Rp 40,000. The trip should last around one hour depending on the road.

Halal Restaurants

Plenty of halal restaurants are available in Banjarmasin! The most iconic Muslim-friendly restaurants in town are Soto Banjar Bang Amat, Rumah Makan Lontong Orari, and Rumah Makan Mesir.

Mosques

The oldest mosque in Banjarmasin is the Masjid Sultan Suriansyah. It was built by the first King of the Banjar Kingdom that converted to Islam in 1526 and it features iconic pre-Islamic architecture. Other magnificent mosques in Banjarmasin are Masjid Raya Sabilal Muhtadin, Masjid Jami’ Banjarmasin, and Masjid Jami’ Tuhfaturroghibin Banjarmasin.

Things to Do and See in Banjarmasin

• Floating Markets
• Kembang Island
• Rumah Jomblo
• The Barito River Bridge
• Tahura Sultan Adam Forest
• Museum Wasaka
• Museum Lambung Mangkurat
• Pandan Banjarmasin Tower
• Bajuin Waterfalls