Sanggau

A town in the interior region surrounded by dense rainforest and home to Dayak indigenous communities. It's an excellent base for jungle trekking, wildlife spotting, and experiencing authentic tribal culture.

Things to do

• Jungle Trekking in Betung Kerihun National Park — Explore primary rainforest trails within this protected area to spot orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and hornbills while learning about the ecosystem from local guides.
• Visit Dayak Longhouses — Stay overnight or visit traditional communal homes in nearby villages like Tumbang Marikng to experience authentic Dayak family life, crafts, and hospitality.
• Kapuas River Boat Journey — Take a motorized canoe upriver through dense forest to remote settlements and observe traditional fishing methods and riverside wildlife.
• Dayak Cultural Museum of Sanggau — View artifacts, traditional weapons, beadwork, and historical exhibits documenting the region's indigenous heritage and colonial history.
• Waterfall and Swimming Holes — Visit nearby waterfalls such as Bukit Baka for refreshing swims and picnicking in scenic rainforest settings.
• Traditional Handicraft Workshops — Learn to weave traditional textiles, carve wooden items, or make beadwork directly from local artisans in community workshops.

Food to try

• Soto Banjar — A fragrant turmeric-based soup with meat, potatoes, and hard-boiled eggs that is a regional specialty reflecting Banjarese culinary influence.
• Dayak Pepper Rice (Nasi Kuning) — Aromatic yellow rice cooked with turmeric, served with grilled fish or meat and fresh jungle vegetables.
• Betutu or Grilled River Fish — Freshly caught fish from the Kapuas River grilled over open fire and seasoned with lime, chili, and local herbs.
• Ulat Sagu (Sago Grubs) — A traditional high-protein delicacy of palm-dwelling beetle larvae, often grilled or fried and considered a prized indigenous food.
• Bamboo Sticky Rice with Wild Game — Glutinous rice cooked inside bamboo segments served alongside venison or wild boar hunted from the surrounding forest.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Sacred Sites and Customs — Ask permission before entering longhouses or sacred areas, remove shoes indoors, and avoid pointing at people or religious objects.
• Learn Basic Dayak Greetings — Using simple local phrases like 'Pampat' (hello) and showing genuine interest in Dayak culture will earn warmth and hospitality from residents.
• Hire Local Guides — Always use experienced local guides for jungle activities who understand the forest, wildlife safety, and can facilitate authentic village interactions.
• Participate in Gawai Festival — If visiting during harvest season (May-June), join celebrations featuring traditional dancing, communal feasting, and spiritual ceremonies honoring the rice harvest.