Banjarbaru

A modern planned city and important commercial hub serving as a gateway between Banjarmasin and the interior regions. It hosts the region's main airport and offers contemporary amenities while remaining close to traditional attractions.

Things to do

• Banjarbaru Central Market (Pasar Sentral) — A bustling traditional market showcasing local produce, textiles, and handicrafts where you can experience authentic South Kalimantan commerce and sample street food.
• Masjid Raya Banjarbaru — The city's grand mosque featuring distinctive modern Islamic architecture and serving as a spiritual center that welcomes respectful visitors outside prayer times.
• Taman Beringin Banjarbaru — A local urban park with shaded walking paths, recreational facilities, and traditional Banjarese gathering spaces ideal for experiencing everyday local life.
• Banjarese Cultural Village (Kampung Banjar Lestari) — A heritage preservation area showcasing traditional Banjarese wooden architecture, crafts, and cultural demonstrations representative of the region's indigenous lifestyle.
• Hulu Sungai Utara Day Trip — Accessible journey into South Kalimantan's interior highlands featuring traditional villages, river landscapes, and access to more remote cultural attractions.
• Plaza Banjarbaru Shopping District — The city's modern commercial center offering contemporary amenities, local boutiques, and dining that reflects Banjarbaru's role as a regional hub.

Food to try

• Soto Banjar — A rich turmeric-based soup with tender meat, potatoes, and hard-boiled eggs served with lime and chilies, considered the quintessential dish of South Kalimantan.
• Lempah Kuning — A golden-hued fish or seafood curry infused with turmeric, garlic, ginger, and lime that exemplifies Banjarese coastal-influenced cooking traditions.
• Bubur Bayi (Banjarese Rice Porridge) — A delicate rice porridge served with shredded chicken, egg, and aromatic spice paste that's both comforting and distinctly regional.
• Banjarese Grilled Fish (Ikan Bakar Banjar) — Freshwater or coastal fish marinated in spice paste and grilled over charcoal, often served with sambal and rice at local warungs.
• Martabak Banjar — Thick pancakes filled with savory or sweet ingredients like meat, cheese, or chocolate, a popular street food and snack throughout the city.
• Cendol Banjar — A refreshing dessert of green rice flour jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup served over shaved ice, perfect for cooling down in the tropical heat.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Respectfully at Religious Sites — When visiting mosques or attending local religious gatherings, wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees out of respect for Islamic customs.
• Learn Basic Banjarese Greetings — Using simple Banjarese or Indonesian phrases like 'Selamat pagi' (good morning) and 'Terima kasih' (thank you) earns appreciation and opens doors to warmer local interactions.
• Respect Prayer Times — The city observes five daily prayers; avoid scheduling activities during prayer times and be mindful of the call to prayer as a natural rhythm of daily life.
• Participate in Traditional Markets Early — Visit local markets in early morning hours when community life is most vibrant and you'll experience authentic social interaction and better food selection from vendors.