Things To Do
in Pontianak
Pontianak is a riverfront city on the equator in West Kalimantan, where the Kapuas River winds through the urban landscape. It blends bustling markets, colonial-era architecture, and a mix of Malay, Chinese, and Dayak influences. The Equator Monument and the lively waterfront give visitors a memorable sense of place and rhythm.
As a gateway to exploring central Borneo, Pontianak offers easy access to nature, culture, and delicious seafood along the riverfront.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Equator Monument, where you can take photos at the point where the Earth's equator crosses. Enjoy the local breakfast of lontong and sate, immersing yourself in the flavors of Indonesian cuisine. Spend some time strolling along the nearby Kapuas River, admiring the views and observing the local fisherfolk at work.
Visit the Museum of Pontianak to delve into the city's rich history and culture, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of West Kalimantan. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the lush green grounds of Dataran Sanggia, a local park where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty. Stop by a local café to sample some traditional Indonesian coffee and snacks while mingling with friendly locals.
As the sun sets, head to the riverside for a scenic boat ride along the Kapuas River, experiencing the city from a different perspective. After your ride, enjoy a dinner of fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant, where the catch of the day is served with traditional sambal. Cap off the evening with a visit to a local market, where you can shop for handicrafts and sample street food delicacies.
Begin your day at the bustling Taman Alun Kapuas, a traditional market filled with vibrant colors and local crafts. Engage with the friendly vendors as you explore stalls selling fresh produce, handmade goods, and traditional textiles. Don't miss trying some local breakfast treats like kue cubir and pisang goreng from the market stalls.
After exploring the market, visit the nearby Vihara Buddha Guna Temple, a serene place that reflects the diverse cultural heritage of Pontianak. Spend some time meditating and appreciating the intricate architecture and serene surroundings. For lunch, indulge in a variety of local dishes at a nearby warung, sampling flavors from different regions of Indonesia.
In the evening, head to the Pontianak Cultural Center for a taste of traditional music and dance performances that celebrate local culture. Participate in a cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional West Kalimantan dishes. Enjoy the meal you've prepared with your fellow participants, sharing stories and laughter over the dinner table.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🍽️Lunch for two at a mid-range restaurant | $8-20 |
| 🏨One night in a budget hotel | $20-40 |
| 🚕Short taxi or ride-share ride | $1-6 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant river life and delicious seafood
- Affordable costs and friendly locals
- Gateway to natural and cultural experiences in Borneo
- Compact city center easy to explore on foot
- Public transport is limited outside the city center
- Very hot and humid year-round
- Language may be a barrier in outlying areas
- Some venues still rely on cash; fewer mid-range card options
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Tolong" - Please / Help me
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much does this cost?
- "Di mana kamar mandi?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Apa rekomendasi makanan di sini?" - What food do you recommend here?
- "Saya tidak bisa makan pedas" - I can't eat spicy
Places to Visit in Pontianak
Visit one of these nice places.
A landmark where the equator line is marked; great for photos at dawn or sunset with the river backdrop.
Colonial-era shophouses and quiet streets offer interesting architectural photography and a glimpse of the city’s history.
Wide river views, long wharfs, and boats at dusk—perfect for sunset silhouettes and street photography.
Food in Pontianak
Pontianak Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled river fish marinated with turmeric, lemongrass, and chili, usually served with sambal and rice.
Must-Try!
Light fish soup with vegetables and fragrant herbs, a comforting staple at seafood eateries.
Layered coconut-sago cake, a popular sweet souvenir and snack.
Fragrant turmeric rice served with ayam (chicken), telur (egg), and sambal.
Traditional coconut milk-based baked cakes and layered sweets perfect with coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The central market where you can find fresh seafood, produce, and everyday Indonesian dishes; great for people-watching and tasting locally caught fish.
A bustling early-morning market offering tropical fruit (durian, mangosteen), vegetables, and street bites along the riverfront.
A cluster of night-time stalls and small eateries serving grilled seafood, noodles, and sweet snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms, especially around religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting mosques or temples.
Always ask before photographing people, particularly in markets or in intimate settings.
Use the right hand for handing items and for polite gestures; avoid showing the sole of the shoe in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Pontianak
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service, especially in tourist-focused venues. In restaurants, round up the bill or leave a small tip (5-10%) for service staff or guides.
Cash is widely used, especially in markets. Cards are accepted at larger hotels and malls, and mobile wallets (e-wallets) are increasingly common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and very humid with abundant sunshine. Great for outdoor sightseeing and riverfront strolls; carry water, wear sunscreen, and plan shade breaks.
Expect frequent rain showers and high humidity. Afternoon storms are common; carry a compact umbrella or rain jacket and schedule indoor activities on wet days.
Pontianak at Night
Hiking in Pontianak
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy coastal hiking and boardwalk paths through mangrove ecosystems with birdlife and water views.
Short, accessible trails through lowland forests offering wildlife viewing and calm scenery.
Airports
How to reach Pontianak by plane.
Located about 17-20 km from downtown Pontianak; serves domestic connections and some regional flights. Taxis, online ride services, and airport shuttle options are available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A core cultural group with deep riverine and market traditions.
Indigenous groups contributing to cultural diversity and crafts.
A significant presence supporting commerce, cuisine, and festive events.
A mix of Javanese and other regional groups contributing to urban life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport at local schools and in community leagues.
Common in clubs and recreation centers across the city.
Traditional Southeast Asian sport enjoyed in parks and social events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pontianak.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes feature fish or shrimp paste (terasi). Look for vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes, and tempeh; request no terasi or fish sauce, and opt for mushrooms in broth when ordering.