Palangka Raya

The capital and largest city of Central Kalimantan, situated on the Kahayan River. It serves as the main gateway and base for exploring the region's rainforests, indigenous cultures, and national parks.

Things to do

• Tanjung Puting National Park Day Trip — Visit this renowned orangutan rehabilitation center and wildlife sanctuary located about 2 hours from the city, where you can spot orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and hornbills from a river boat.
• Kahayan River Boat Tour — Take a guided boat journey along the Kahayan River through the city and surrounding rainforest to observe local life, wildlife, and traditional riverside settlements.
• Bukit Raya National Park Exploration — Explore this pristine rainforest park north of the city featuring diverse flora, fauna, and indigenous Dayak territories with guided jungle trekking options.
• Palangka Raya Museum Visit — Learn about Central Kalimantan's history, indigenous cultures, and natural heritage through exhibits of traditional artifacts, weapons, and ethnographic displays at this small but informative museum.
• Traditional Dayak Longhouse Visit — Experience authentic Dayak culture by visiting a traditional longhouse settlement in nearby villages where you can observe daily life, crafts, and meet indigenous community members.
• Lake Kereng Pangi Nature Walk — Hike through wetland ecosystems and secondary rainforest around this scenic lake to spot migratory birds and experience the region's biodiversity.

Food to try

• Ikan Bakar Kalimantan — Freshwater fish (often catfish or snakehead) grilled over charcoal and seasoned with local spices, garlic, and lime, served with sambal and rice.
• Bubur Manado — A savory rice porridge unique to Central Kalimantan featuring shredded chicken, liver, and aromatic broth typically eaten for breakfast.
• Ulat Sagu — Sago grubs (beetle larvae) harvested from rotting wood, either grilled or fried until crispy, considered a protein-rich delicacy among local communities.
• Teh Banjar or Teh Talua — A traditional hot beverage made with strong black tea, condensed milk, and a raw egg stirred in while hot, creating a creamy drink unique to Banjarese culture.
• Ketupat Banjar — Rice cakes wrapped in woven palm leaves and served with chicken curry or savory soup, a staple dish especially during celebrations.

Local customs & good to know

• Learn Basic Dayak Greetings — Respect local indigenous culture by learning simple Dayak phrases like 'Selamat pagi' (good morning) and showing genuine interest in traditional customs and beliefs.
• Dress Modestly in Rural Areas — When visiting longhouses or remote villages, wear long pants and covered shoulders as a sign of respect for indigenous communities and their traditions.
• Ask Permission Before Photography — Always ask locals before photographing people, especially in indigenous settlements, as some Dayak communities prefer to maintain privacy around sacred spaces and personal moments.
• Visit During Gawai Dayak Festival — If possible, time your visit for late May or early June to experience Gawai Dayak, the major harvest festival celebrating indigenous culture with traditional dances, music, and communal feasting.