Things To Do
in Banjarmasin
Banjarmasin sits on the banks of the Barito River in South Kalimantan, earning its nickname as the city of a thousand rivers. The city blends centuries-old river culture with vibrant markets, mosques, and wooden houses on stilts. Canal life is central here, with boats gliding through narrow waterways and markets floating along the water.
Visitors should expect humid heat, lush tropical scenery, and a welcoming, slow-paced atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with an early morning boat ride to the famous Lok Baintan Floating Market, where vibrant wooden boats are filled with fresh produce and handmade goods. As you glide through the river, the aroma of traditional breakfast foods wafts through the air, inviting you to taste local delicacies like ketupat and soto banjar. Engage with friendly local vendors and take photos of the bustling market scene, capturing the essence of this unique cultural experience.
After a hearty lunch at a riverside café, explore the nearby traditional villages where you can witness the daily lives of the local people. Visit the Sabilal Muhtadin Mosque, an impressive structure known for its intricate design and serene atmosphere. Spend some time strolling along the riverbanks, soaking in the vibrant sights and sounds of Banjarmasin while enjoying a refreshing coconut drink.
As the sun sets, embark on a river cruise to enjoy the stunning twilight views along the Barito River. Savor a delicious dinner on board, featuring local dishes while being serenaded by traditional music. The evening concludes with a stroll through the illuminated city, where the nightlife begins to stir with street vendors and local entertainment.
Begin your day with a visit to the Museum Wasaka, where you can learn about the rich cultural history of Banjarmasin and the Dayak people. The museum showcases artifacts, traditional clothing, and art that reflect the region's diverse heritage. Take your time to appreciate the exhibits and engage with knowledgeable staff who can share fascinating stories about the local culture.
Head to the iconic Martapura River and visit the local gemstone market, where you can browse a dazzling array of jewelry and stones. Engage with artisans who craft unique pieces, and learn about the significance of these gems in local traditions. After shopping, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local dishes that highlight the flavors of Banjarmasin.
As night falls, visit the night market to experience the local culinary scene. Sample an array of street food, from grilled skewers to sweet desserts, while mingling with the locals. The vibrant atmosphere, filled with laughter and chatter, makes for a perfect end to your day of cultural discovery.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍜Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $12-25 |
| 🛵One-way local transportation | $0.40-1.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $25-60 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $0.25-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant river culture and floating markets
- Rich Banjar traditions and welcoming locals
- Generally affordable travel and plentiful seafood
- Hot and humid climate can be exhausting
- Nightlife is more low-key compared to larger cities
- Infrastructure can be crowded during peak market times
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana kamar mandi?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Saya mau makan" - I want to eat
Places to Visit in Banjarmasin
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand waterfront mosque with a striking domed silhouette, ideal for dawn or dusk photography against the Barito River.
Colorful boats, vivid baskets, and daily river life create dynamic, portrait-worthy scenes.
Line up traditional stilt houses and boats along quiet stretches for long-exposure river shots.
Golden-hour reflections on the water with silhouettes of riverside homes make for serene landscape imagery.
Food in Banjarmasin
Banjarmasin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant Banjar soup featuring beef or chicken, turmeric, lemongrass, and fried shallots, typically served with lime, sambal, and rice.
Must-Try!
Grilled fish cakes wrapped in banana leaves, spiced with coconut milk and chili.
River fish grilled with a tangy sambal and fresh herbs, often served with rice and vegetables.
Coconut milk cake and a sweet, comforting dessert common in Kalimantan.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning floating market where traders sell produce from boats along the Barito River; a quintessential photo and tasting experience.
Bustling traditional market with fresh produce, spices, and prepared foods; great for sampling local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A respectful 'Selamat pagi/siang' goes a long way. Use polite language and address elders with appropriate honorifics.
Keep shoulders and knees covered in religious sites; modest clothing is appreciated in markets and small shops.
Observe quiet behavior in residential and sacred spaces; avoid loud music near mosques and homes along waterways.
Safety
Tipping in Banjarmasin
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In tourist areas, rounding up or leaving a small tip at restaurants and cafes is common. Service charges may be included in larger establishments.
Cash (Indonesian rupiah) is widely accepted. Many places also accept debit/credit cards, especially in hotels and larger restaurants; small street stalls typically operate on cash only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Frequent, sometimes heavy showers and high humidity; carry a lightweight rain shell and a compact umbrella. Rivers can swell, so flexible plans are helpful.
Hot and humid with clearer skies and long days; best times for outdoor activities are early morning and late afternoon to avoid peak heat.
Banjarmasin at Night
Hiking in Banjarmasin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dramatic rainforest-covered ranges with challenging, multi-day treks; best experienced with a local guide and in the dry season.
Airports
How to reach Banjarmasin by plane.
Main gateway near Banjarbaru, connected to Jakarta and other Indonesian cities; transfer to Banjarmasin by car or bus in about 1–2 hours, depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous ethnic group in the region with a distinct language and cultural traditions; a core part of the city’s identity.
A sizable urban community, contributing to commerce, education, and daily life.
A smaller but active community involved in trade and services in the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; local matches and informal games are common in the evenings.
Popular in community centers and clubs; many indoor courts in the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Banjarmasin.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes feature fish or meat; look for vegetable-based sautés, tempe, tofu, or vegetable stir-fries. Ask for no shrimp or fish sauces, and request oil-based cooking instead of animal fats when possible.