Things To Do
in Martapura
Martapura is a quiet riverside city in South Kalimantan known for its vibrant jewelry markets and Banjar culture. It blends traditional crafts with lush tropical landscapes and a welcoming local community. The town serves as a gateway to nearby natural areas while offering authentic Indonesian flavors through its markets and eateries.
Visitors will find a relaxed pace, colorful markets, and photo-worthy streets that reveal everyday life along the Banjar River.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Martapura Grand Mosque, where the serene ambiance invites reflection and appreciation of the intricate Islamic architecture. Afterward, stroll through the nearby traditional market, immersing yourself in the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere as local vendors showcase their handicrafts and fresh produce. Don't miss the chance to sample some local delicacies, such as 'kerupuk' (crackers) and 'nasi kuning' (yellow rice).
In the afternoon, head to the Museum of Balangan, where you can delve into the rich history and cultural heritage of the region through various artifacts and exhibits. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, savoring traditional Indonesian dishes while discussing your morning discoveries. Afterward, take a walk along the Martapura River, where the scenic views and gentle breeze provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a riverside café to enjoy a traditional Indonesian dinner, featuring dishes like 'soto' (soup) and 'rendang' (spicy beef). The evening is perfect for mingling with locals, who often gather here to share stories and laughter. End your day by watching the beautiful sunset over the river, casting a golden glow on the water.
Begin your morning at the Martapura Gem Market, where the dazzling array of gemstones from the region sparkles under the sun. Engage with local artisans and learn about the intricate craft of gem-cutting and jewelry-making, gaining insights into the significance of these stones in Indonesian culture. Don’t forget to take a moment to browse the stalls and perhaps purchase a unique souvenir.
After the market, visit the nearby Pasar Terapung (Floating Market) where you can experience the unique sight of vendors selling goods from boats on the river. Enjoy a delicious lunch of local snacks and drinks while floating alongside the vibrant market scene. This immersive experience allows you to interact with local vendors and taste authentic Martapura cuisine straight from the source.
As evening approaches, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, enjoying the cool breeze and the sounds of evening life in Martapura. Find a local restaurant to savor a traditional Indonesian dinner, perhaps trying 'ikan bakar' (grilled fish) accompanied by sambal. Conclude your day with a stroll through the illuminated market, witnessing how the atmosphere transforms as night falls.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🥤Bottle of water (0.33L) | $0.25-0.50 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $0.75-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich local culture and crafts (jewelry market)
- Warm, friendly people and affordable travel
- Beautiful river setting and photo opportunities
- Culinary delights with Banjar flavors
- Limited nightlife options
- Traffic can be congested around markets
- Some services favor cash transactions
- Distance to larger urban centers requires planning
- "Halo" - Hello
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana kamar mandi?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Tolong" - Please/Help
- "Maaf" - Sorry
- "Saya mau pesan" - I would like to order
- "Apa rekomendasinya?" - What do you recommend?
Places to Visit in Martapura
Visit one of these nice places.
Grand mosque with domes and minarets; best photographed at sunrise when the light is soft and the courtyard is quiet.
Vibrant riverside scenes with boats, locals, and market activity; golden hour provides warm tones on water reflections.
City square framed by traditional and modern architecture; ideal for street photography and candid portraits.
Food in Martapura
Martapura Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant, turmeric-tinted beef or chicken soup served with rice, achar, and often a squeeze of lime; a Banjar specialty found in many local eateries.
Must-Try!
A coconut-milk based fish curry with mild heat and bright herbs; best when paired with steamed rice.
Fragrant yellow rice cooked with turmeric and pandan, typically served with crispy fried cancha and sambal; common at markets and family gatherings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market offering fresh fish, tropical fruits, herbs, and ready-to-eat snacks; ideal for trying street bites.
Evening stalls selling nasi kuning, gorengan, kacang goreng, and sweets; great for casual, affordable meals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms, especially in markets and religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting temples or mosques.
Greet with a respectful hello (Selamat pagi) or Assalamualaikum in appropriate contexts; use a light handshake.
Offer or receive items with the right hand; the left hand is considered less appropriate for giving.
Safety
Tipping in Martapura
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; round up in restaurants or leave 5-10% for good service, particularly for guides or hotel staff.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also accept debit/credit cards and local mobile payments in larger towns or upmarket venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with hot, humid days and abundant sunshine. Great for outdoor markets and river photography; carry water and sunscreen.
Frequent brief to heavy rainfall with high humidity. Lush greenery and fewer crowds, but carry a light rain jacket and waterproof gear.
Martapura at Night
Hiking in Martapura
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails at the base of the Meratus range offering jungle paths and scenic overlooks.
Easy day hikes along river terraces with viewpoints over water and forests.
Airports
How to reach Martapura by plane.
Located near Banjarbaru/Banjarmasin, about a 60-90 minute drive from Martapura; handles domestic flights and some regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous community with distinct language and cultural traditions.
Residents from other parts of Indonesia contributing to a diverse urban mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in homes and community centers; casual and club formats common.
A popular sport across schools and local fields; watch or join casual matches.
Played in gyms and outdoor courts; active community leagues exist in towns nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Martapura.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared without meat or fish; ask for vegetables in place of meat and request coconut milk light if needed.