Things to do in Kalimantan (Borneo)
Discover the best attractions and experiences Kalimantan (Borneo) has to offer
Historic Monuments
Kalimantan's heritage shines in a handful of enduring monuments and royal sites that reflect Banjar and Dayak influences.
Sultan Suriansyah Mosque
Oldest mosque in Kalimantan and a symbol of Banjar culture.
Kota Tua Pontianak
Historic riverfront district with Dutch-era architecture and lively markets.
Sultan Suriansyah Mausoleum
Impressive tomb of Banjar royalty reflecting local artistry.
Museums
Museums in Kalimantan highlight natural history, culture, and the region's royal legacies.
Museum Negeri Kalimantan Barat (Pontianak)
Provincial museum showcasing West Kalimantan culture and history.
Museum Mulawarman (Samarinda)
Main historical museum with artifacts from the Kutai kingdom.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites across Kalimantan reflect Islamic, Buddhist, and Dayak spiritual traditions.
Masjid Raya Sabilal Muhtadin (Banjarmasin)
Majestic mosque and center of Banjar religious life.
Masjid Jami Pontianak (Pontianak Grand Mosque)
Historic mosque at the heart of Pontianak.
National & Theme Parks
Kalimantan's vast forests and wetlands are protected in several national parks and marine reserves.
Tanjung Puting National Park
World-famous orangutan habitat accessible by klotok river safaris.
Danau Sentarum National Park
Seasonal wetlands network with rich biodiversity in West Kalimantan.
Kutai National Park
Protected rainforest in East Kalimantan with wildlife and trails.
Neighborhoods
Explore the varied quarters and riverfront areas that give Kalimantan its character.
Kota Tua Pontianak
Historic Old City area along the Kapuas River.
Singkawang Old Town
Cultural quarter with Chinese-influenced architecture and eateries.
Floating Market Zone, Banjarmasin
Vibrant riverfront quarters around the floating market.
Free Things to Do
Many of Kalimantan's best experiences are free or easy to enjoy with simple city strolls.
Equator Monument (Khatulistiwa), Pontianak
Stand on the Equator line and explore the surrounding park.
Kapuas River promenade stroll
Walk along the riverfront in Pontianak or other Kalimantan towns.
Explore Kota Tua Pontianak on foot
Historic streets, markets, and architecture with no admission.
Gastronomy
Kalimantan's cuisine blends Banjar, Dayak, and coastal flavors into hearty dishes.
Soto Banjar
Fragrant Banjar-style chicken or beef broth with spices.
Nasi Kuning Banjar
Fragrant turmeric rice served with local toppings.
Kue Bingka
Sweet and coconutty traditional cake from Banjar lands.
Nightlife
Evening scenes focus on riverside views, markets, and relaxed venues.
Balikpapan waterfront cafes
Casual spots along the coast for sunset drinks.
Banjarmasin riverfront evenings
Riverside cafés and markets bustle after dark.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and traditional hospitality offer a glimpse into Kalimantan's diverse communities.
Dayak cultural performances
Traditional dances and music showcasing Kalimantan's indigenous cultures.
Longhouse visits
Evening cultural programs and storytelling in Dayak longhouses.
Sports
Outdoor adventures abound, from reef diving to river paddling.
Snorkeling with turtles in Derawan
Clear turquoise waters and easy sea life viewing.
Diving at Maratua Atoll
World-class reef diving with diverse marine life.
Kayaking on Mahakam River
Calm river paddling with lush jungle scenery.
Off the Track
For intrepid travelers, off-the-beaten-path experiences reveal Kalimantan's remote corners.
Tanjung Puting National Park by klotok boat
Remote river safari to see orangutans in their rainforest home.
Dayak longhouse immersive experience
Spend time with communities and learn traditional customs.
Kakaban Jellyfish Lake visit (Derawan Archipelago)
Shallow lake filled with harmless jellyfish in a mangrove setting.