Candi Laras

An ancient temple site that reflects South Kalimantan's pre-Islamic historical heritage. Though modest in scale, it provides cultural and archaeological significance for understanding the region's complex history.

Things to do

• Explore Temple Ruins — Walk through the remaining stone structures and foundations of Candi Laras to observe architectural elements from the Hindu-Buddhist period, typically dating to around the 6th-7th centuries.
• Visit On-Site Museum — View artifacts, stone fragments, and explanatory displays that contextualize the temple's history and its role in pre-Islamic South Kalimantan.
• Photograph Stone Carvings — Document the carved details and remaining decorative elements that illustrate the craftsmanship and artistic traditions of the ancient builders.
• Attend Local Ceremonies — Participate in or observe community gatherings and preservation events held at the site, which sometimes occur during cultural or heritage awareness months.
• Guided Archaeological Tour — Hire a local guide familiar with the site's history to gain deeper insights into the temple's construction techniques, religious significance, and archaeological discoveries.
• Sunset Visit — Return to the temple grounds in late afternoon to experience the site in softer light and enjoy the quieter atmosphere when fewer visitors are present.

Food to try

• Banjar Grilled Fish (Ikan Bakar Banjar) — A local specialty featuring fish marinated in aromatic spices, grilled over charcoal, and typically served with sambal and rice, reflecting South Kalimantan's riverside food culture.
• Soto Banjar — A warming turmeric-based soup with beef, potatoes, and hard-boiled eggs that is the regional signature dish of South Kalimantan.
• Lumpia Banjar — Local spring rolls filled with bean sprouts, shrimp, and spices, served with sweet or spicy dipping sauce as a common street snack.
• Cuko (Cucumber Soup) — A refreshing dish combining cucumber, shrimp paste, and spices in a light broth, traditionally eaten as a side or cooling complement to heavier meals.
• Dodol Banjar — A sticky, sweet glutinous candy made from rice flour, coconut, and brown sugar that serves as a popular local souvenir and treat.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Sacred Ground — Though the temple predates Islam, treat the site with reverence as it remains culturally significant; remove shoes when entering any covered structures and dress modestly.
• Learn Pre-Islamic History — Understanding the Hindu-Buddhist heritage is essential to appreciate how South Kalimantan's identity encompasses multiple historical layers before the Islamic period.
• Engage with Local Guides — Community members and official guides take pride in sharing their heritage; asking respectful questions about the temple's significance strengthens cultural exchange.
• Visit During Daylight — The site has limited facilities and no evening lighting, so plan visits between 8 AM and 5 PM for safety and to fully appreciate the archaeological details.