Things To Do
in Singkawang
Singkawang is a coastal city located on the island of Borneo in Indonesia. Known for its diverse cultural heritage, the city is home to a large Chinese population, resulting in a mix of traditions and cuisines. Singkawang is famous for its annual Cap Go Meh festival, a colorful celebration marking the end of the Chinese New Year.
The city also boasts beautiful beaches and lush rainforests, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Apa kabar?" - How are you?
- "Sama-sama" - You're welcome
- "Selamat malam" - Good evening
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Singkawang Grand Mall for breakfast. Enjoy some local delicacies and shop for souvenirs.
Head to Pantai Tanjung Pinggir for sunbathing and beach activities. Relax on the sandy shores and take a dip in the ocean.
Have dinner at a local seafood restaurant. Try the fresh catch of the day while watching the sunset.
Visit the Vihara Buddha Jayanti temple to appreciate its architecture and tranquil environment. Engage with local monks if available.
Explore the local markets for handmade crafts and traditional snacks. Don’t forget to bargain for the best deals.
Attend a local cultural performance or festival if it coincides with your visit. Enjoy traditional music and dance.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with diverse ethnic communities and traditions.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including beaches, mountains, and parks.
- Growing tourism industry with opportunities for local businesses.
- Peaceful atmosphere and friendly locals.
- Access to unique culinary experiences with local delicacies.
- Limited infrastructure compared to larger cities in Indonesia.
- Potential for natural disasters, like flooding or earthquakes.
- Economic disparities and lower average income levels.
- Limited access to healthcare and educational facilities.
- Environmental concerns, such as deforestation and pollution.
Best Activities in Singkawang
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the biodiversity and natural beauty of the Gunung Palung National Park through its hiking trails.
Relax on the beautiful Pasir Panjang beach and enjoy various water sports activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Experience bird watching and nature walks in the Burung Mandi nature reserve, known for its diverse bird species and lush vegetation.
Tours
Uncover the best of Singkawang with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Singkawang
Visit one of these nice places.
Tanjungpura Park offers a beautiful view of the sea and the city. It is a popular spot for watching sunsets and taking photos.
Taman Harapan is known for its scenic views of the surrounding area, including a city panorama and greenery. It's a great location for capturing stunning photographs.
Pantai Pasir Panjang is a beach area with picturesque landscapes and breathtaking sunsets, making it an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Singkawang
Singkawang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lumpia, a type of spring roll, is a must-try delicacy in Singkawang. It is typically filled with a delectable mixture of vegetables, shrimp, and sometimes minced pork, then deep-fried to crispy perfection. A popular spot to savor authentic Lumpia is at Pasar Minggu (Sunday Market) in Singkawang.
Must-Try!
Laksam is a savory noodle dish with a rich coconut milk-based broth paired with rice noodles, shredded chicken, and a medley of aromatic herbs. For an unforgettable Laksam experience, visit the local warungs (small eateries) dotted around the city.
Sambal Hitam, a spicy and tangy black chili paste, is a staple condiment in Singkawang. It adds a fiery kick to various local dishes. Look for it at traditional markets or street food stalls.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Singkawang better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Pasar Terong, the bustling traditional market, is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local snacks, and ingredients. It's a great place to immerse in the local food culture and discover authentic street food delights like Mie Belitong and Nasi Kuning.
Jalan Pahlawan is known for its vibrant street food scene, offering an array of delectable treats such as Martabak, satay, and refreshing coconut water. Visitors can traverse this lively street and indulge in an assortment of local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting places of worship or participating in religious ceremonies, it is important to dress modestly and behave respectfully, such as removing your shoes before entering a mosque or temple.
In Singkawang, as in many other Indonesian cultures, the left hand is considered unclean. It is polite to use your right hand for giving, receiving, eating, and gesturing.
In Indonesian culture, respect for elders and those in positions of authority is highly valued. It is customary to use polite language and gestures when interacting with older individuals and those in leadership roles.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Singkawang with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Singkawang
Ensure a smooth experience
In Singkawang, Indonesia, tipping is not a common practice. However, in upscale restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill.
Cash is the preferred method of payment in Singkawang, especially in traditional markets and smaller establishments. Larger hotels and restaurants may accept credit cards, but it's always best to carry cash for transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Singkawang.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Singkawang is during the dry season, from May to September. This period offers pleasant weather with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.
Visiting Singkawang during the monsoon season, from October to April, means encountering heavy rainfall and the possibility of flooding. Travelers should be prepared for wet conditions and potential disruptions to outdoor plans during this time.
Singkawang at Night
Hiking in Singkawang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A mountain located near Singkawang known for its scenic trails and panoramic views.
A recreational park that offers jogging and hiking paths surrounded by lush greenery.
A hill area perfect for hiking, offering various trails for different skill levels.
A protected forest area featuring hiking trails that allow visitors to explore diverse flora and fauna.
A beautiful park with hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Singkawang through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Singkawang by plane.
Located in Jakarta, this is the main international airport serving the capital of Indonesia and the largest in the country.
Situated in Batam, this airport serves domestic and international flights, and is a key gateway to the Riau Islands.
Located near Medan, this airport facilitates international and domestic flights and serves as a major airport in North Sumatra.
This airport is in Pekanbaru, Riau, and serves both domestic and limited international flights, connecting the region to various destinations.
Situated in Padang, West Sumatra, this airport serves both international and domestic flights and is an important airport for the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant ethnic group in Singkawang, known for their cultural contributions and businesses.
A local ethnic group known for their agricultural practices and traditional culture.
The largest ethnic group in Indonesia, found in Singkawang mainly for trade and commerce.
Another ethnic group present in smaller numbers, contributing to the cultural diversity.
An ethnic group from Northern Sumatra, some members are present in Singkawang and involved in various trades.
The Soul of Singkawang
Discover the essence of Singkawang through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Singkawang, played in local clubs and schools, attracting a large number of fans and players.
Badminton is widely played in Singkawang, with many people participating in local tournaments and casual games in community centers.
Basketball has gained popularity in Singkawang, with several courts available and youth engaging in both street basketball and organized leagues.
Volleyball is a common sport in Singkawang, often played at the beach and in schools, promoting both recreation and competition.
Various forms of martial arts, including silat, are practiced in Singkawang, reflecting the cultural heritage and promoting self-defense.
Running events and marathons are increasingly popular in Singkawang, encouraging fitness among the community and fostering a spirit of competition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Singkawang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Singkawang's cuisine predominantly features seafood and meat, some eateries offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly options such as Sayur Lodeh (coconut-based vegetable stew) and Tahu Isi (stuffed tofu). It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly when ordering.
Individuals seeking gluten-free alternatives can opt for rice-based dishes like Nasi Goreng (Indonesian fried rice) or fresh seafood with steamed vegetables. Communicating with the restaurant staff about dietary needs is recommended for a tailored dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Singkawang with these cultural adventures.
