Muara Teweh

An upriver trading town on the Kahayan River serving Dayak communities and agriculture, accessible by boat from Palangka Raya. It provides an authentic look at inland Central Kalimantan life and traditional river settlements.

Things to do

• Kahayan River boat tours — Take a motorized canoe upstream to observe traditional Dayak longhouses, floating gardens, and riverside villages nestled along the river.
• Visit local markets — Explore Muara Teweh's river market where Dayak traders sell fresh produce, fish, handicrafts, and forest products in a lively morning setting.
• Traditional rubber and cocoa plantations — Tour working smallholder farms on the outskirts where local families cultivate rubber and cocoa, key agricultural products of the region.
• Dayak cultural visits — Arrange meetings with Dayak community leaders to learn about traditional practices, handicrafts, and daily life in authentic inland settlements.
• Forest walks — Hire local guides for short treks into surrounding secondary forest to spot wildlife, medicinal plants, and gain insight into traditional ecological knowledge.
• Photography at sunrise — Position yourself along the riverbank at dawn to capture mist-covered waters, traditional wooden structures, and local fishing activities.

Food to try

• Ikan bakar (grilled river fish) — Fresh Kahayan River fish wrapped in banana leaves and grilled over charcoal, seasoned simply with salt and local spices.
• Bubur manado (rice porridge with fish) — A savory rice porridge topped with shredded dried fish, boiled egg, and served with fried shallots and sambal, common as breakfast or light meal.
• Ulat sagu (sago grubs) — Protein-rich larvae found in rotting sago palms, traditionally roasted or fried and considered a delicacy among Dayak communities.
• Cacah (mixed vegetable stew) — A hearty local stew combining river vegetables, cassava leaves, and sometimes fish or shrimp, flavored with coconut milk and spices.
• Lempah kuning (yellow turmeric fish soup) — River fish simmered in a fragrant broth of turmeric, ginger, galangal, and local herbs, reflecting Central Kalimantan's preference for aromatic flavors.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect river customs — The Kahayan River is central to daily life; avoid loud behavior near water and always ask permission before photographing boats, nets, or fishing activities.
• Greet elders first — Dayak culture values respect for age and authority, so acknowledge the oldest person in any gathering and use polite Indonesian or learn basic Dayak greetings.
• Dress modestly — Although inland, modest clothing—covering shoulders and knees—is appreciated in this traditional community and shows cultural respect.
• Learn basic Indonesian — While some residents speak English, many do not; learning simple Indonesian phrases greatly enhances interaction and demonstrates genuine interest in the community.