Things To Do
in Tenggarong
Tenggarong is a charming city located in East Kalimantan, Indonesia. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, including the Sultanate of Kutai Sultanate. The city is a popular destination for travelers seeking to explore the traditional Dayak culture and visit historical sites such as the Mulawarman Museum.
Tenggarong also offers beautiful natural landscapes, with lush forests and the picturesque Mahakam River running through the city.
- "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): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kutai Kartanegara Museum to learn about local history. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and take photos of the beautiful architecture.
Head to the Tenggarong Floating Market to sample local delicacies and shop for unique handicrafts. It’s a great way to engage with the local culture and meet friendly vendors.
Conclude your day with a stroll along the Mahakam River. The sunset views are breathtaking, and you can find many spots to sit and relax while enjoying the scenery.
Visit the Royal Palace of the Kutai Sultanate, showcasing traditional architecture and royal relics. Guided tours provide insights into the history of the sultanate.
Wander around the local markets for traditional Kutai fabrics and crafts, immersing yourself in the craftsmanship of the region. Don't miss trying a local snack while you browse.
Attend a traditional dance performance at the local cultural center. The vibrant music and costumes offer a fantastic glimpse into the rich heritage of Tenggarong.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with local festivals and traditions.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including rivers and forests.
- Warm and welcoming local community.
- Growing tourism sector with unique attractions.
- Affordable cost of living compared to major urban areas.
- Limited access to modern amenities and services.
- Transportation can be challenging, especially in rural areas.
- Underdeveloped infrastructure compared to larger cities.
- Seasonal flooding can impact daily life and travel.
- Less diversified economy, relying heavily on local industries.
Best Activities in Tenggarong
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Mahakam River, taking in the natural beauty and local villages along the way.
Explore the diverse flora and fauna of Kutai National Park through a guided jungle trekking expedition.
Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the region by visiting the Tenggarong Sultanate Palace, home to a significant collection of artifacts and historical items.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tenggarong with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tenggarong
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Tenggarong and the surrounding area, especially at sunrise and sunset. A popular spot for photographers.
A scenic riverfront area with opportunities for capturing picturesque views of the Mahakam River and the traditional Dayak longhouses.
A historic palace complex with beautifully maintained gardens, offering various architectural and cultural photo opportunities.
Food in Tenggarong
Tenggarong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled fish marinated in a blend of local spices, typically served with fragrant rice and sambal. Don't miss the stalls along the Mahakam riverside for some of the best Ikan Bakar in Tenggarong.
Must-Try!
A traditional Dayak dish made from sago flour and usually served with fish or vegetable soup. Look for authentic Papeda at local Warungs or eateries in the city center.
Slow-cooked chicken dish infused with aromatic Balinese spices, often accompanied by steamed rice and fresh vegetables. Indulge in this flavorful dish at Warungs or local restaurants, such as Ayam Betutu Bu Dayu.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tenggarong better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience a vibrant atmosphere and a wide variety of local street food at the Tenggarong Night Market. Discover an assortment of grilled seafood, satay, traditional snacks, and refreshing beverages here.
Explore the bustling morning market to savor an array of fresh tropical fruits, aromatic spices, and local delicacies like Kerupuk (crackers) and traditional snacks. This market is a paradise for food enthusiasts seeking authentic local ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tenggarong, it is important to greet others with respect, such as using the appropriate titles and showing deference to elders.
Respect local traditions, customs, and religious practices, such as asking for permission before entering a local's house or sacred area.
It's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when interacting with someone of the opposite gender.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tenggarong with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tenggarong
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Tenggarong, Indonesia. It is not expected in most situations, including at restaurants, cafes, or hotels. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small gratuity may be appreciated, but it is not obligatory.
In Tenggarong, Indonesia, cash is the most widely used form of payment, especially in local markets and smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger businesses and some hotels, but it's always advisable to have cash on hand. It's also common to negotiate prices, particularly in markets and with local vendors.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tenggarong.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Tenggarong is during the dry season when the weather is sunny and pleasant. This is also the time for various cultural and local festivals such as Erau and traditional dance performances.
During the wet season, Tenggarong experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity. Travelers should expect lush green landscapes and occasional downpours. The wet season is also a time for agricultural activities and traditional rice planting ceremonies.
Tenggarong at Night
Hiking in Tenggarong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful nature reserve offering wonderful hiking trails surrounded by lush rainforest, diverse wildlife, and stunning views.
A popular hiking destination featuring scenic routes and panoramic views from the summit, ideal for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Kutai National Park offers various hiking paths that allow visitors to explore its rich biodiversity, including its famous orangutan population.
A serene hiking location with trails that meander around wetlands and rice fields, perfect for a peaceful hike with nature.
A conservation area providing several trails through dense forest, where hikers can enjoy the tranquility and observe local fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tenggarong through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tenggarong by plane.
Located in Balikpapan, approximately 129 km from Tenggarong, this airport serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights in East Kalimantan.
Situated in Balikpapan, around 130 km from Tenggarong, Sepinggan is the main airport for the region, offering various domestic routes and international flights.
Located in Banjarmasin, about 165 km from Tenggarong, this airport serves both domestic and some international flights.
Found in Tarakan, approximately 320 km from Tenggarong, Juwata serves domestic flights with some international connections.
Located in Pekanbaru, around 520 km from Tenggarong, this airport offers various domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Javanese are the largest ethnic group in Indonesia, including in Tenggarong, with a rich cultural heritage and significant influence on the region's history and development.
The Dayak are the indigenous people of Kalimantan, known for their traditional customs and practices, playing a crucial role in the cultural landscape of Tenggarong.
The Bugis are an ethnic group from Sulawesi, known for their maritime culture and entrepreneurship, contributing to the economy and diversity of Tenggarong.
The Balinese have a presence in Tenggarong, characterized by their unique Hindu culture and arts, complementing the multicultural aspect of the region.
The Minangkabau, originating from West Sumatra, are known for their matrilineal culture and have established communities in Tenggarong, enhancing its cultural richness.
The Sundanese from West Java contribute to Tenggarong's demographic diversity with their language, customs, and traditional music.
The Soul of Tenggarong
Discover the essence of Tenggarong through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Tenggarong, with many local teams and tournaments held regularly.
Basketball has a growing fan base in Tenggarong, with several courts available for both casual play and organized competitions.
Badminton is widely played in Tenggarong, with many residents participating in matches and clubs.
Volleyball is a popular sport in schools and communities, often played in beach and indoor settings.
Various forms of martial arts, including pencak silat, are practiced and celebrated in Tenggarong, reflecting local culture and tradition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tenggarong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Indonesian cuisine often features meat and fish, many restaurants in Tenggarong offer vegetable-based dishes like Sayur Lodeh (vegetable soup) and Tumis Kangkung (stir-fried water spinach) suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Those with gluten sensitivities can opt for rice-based dishes such as Nasi Goreng (fried rice) or seafood-based meals. Communicating your dietary needs to restaurant staff can help in ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tenggarong with these cultural adventures.
