Kandangan

Kandangan is the capital of the Hulu Sungai Selatan Regency in South Kalimantan, located about 100 km northeast of Banjarmasin. The town of around 60,000 people sits in the fertile foothills of the Meratus Mountains, at the transition between the coastal lowlands and the Dayak highlands. It is an agricultural centre known for its rice paddies, rubber plantations, and fruit orchards.

The town's name means "narrow" in Banjarese — a reference to its location along the narrow valley of the Amandit River. Kandangan serves as the gateway to the Loksado highlands and the traditional Dayak villages of the Meratus Range. It is a pleasant market town with a relaxed atmosphere, good local food, and easy access to natural attractions.

The climate is tropical with temperatures of 23–32°C. The rainy season runs November–April. The foothill location makes it slightly cooler than the Banjarmasin lowlands, especially in the evenings.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Syamsudin Noor International Airport (BDJ) in Banjarmasin, about 100 km southwest (2–3 hours by road). Gusti Syamsir Alam Airport in nearby Barabai serves limited flights.

By Car / Road

From Banjarmasin, take the Trans-Kalimantan highway east through Martapura and continue northeast — about 2.5 hours by car. Public minibuses from Banjarmasin's Terminal KM 6 serve Kandangan (Rp 60,000–80,000).

Kandangan is compact and walkable. Ojek, becak, and angkot serve the town and surrounding villages. For Loksado and the Meratus highlands, arrange transport from Kandangan's market area.

• Amandit River: The river flows through town — popular for riverside walks and scenic views.

• Pasar Kandangan: The town market — busy in the morning, selling local produce, fruits, and crafts.

• Meratus Mountain Views: The mountains form a dramatic backdrop to the town, especially visible from the northern outskirts.

• Traditional Banjarese Architecture: Several old wooden houses in the town centre display traditional building styles.

• Gateway to Loksado: Most visitors pass through Kandangan en route to the Loksado Dayak highland area.

• River Swimming: The Amandit River has clean, cool stretches suitable for swimming upstream from the town.

• Local Cuisine Tour: Try the town's famous soto Kandangan, a local variant of the Banjarese chicken soup.

• Soto Kandangan: The town's signature dish — a rich, turmeric-coloured chicken soup with vermicelli, egg, and lime.
• Ikan Bakar: Freshwater fish grilled over charcoal — available at riverside warung.
• Nasi Kuning: Fragrant yellow rice — a breakfast favourite.
• Pasar Kandangan: Morning food stalls serving bubur (porridge) and gorengan (fried snacks).

Bottled water is essential. Tap water is not drinkable. Sweet tea and fresh fruit juices are widely available.

• Budget: Simple losmen (Rp 100,000–200,000/night).
• Mid-range: Hotel Mahkota Kandangan (Rp 250,000–400,000/night).
• Homestay: Basic homestays in and around the market area.

Kandangan's market is known for local fruits — durian, rambutan, and mangosteen in season. Banjarese sasirangan fabric and woven crafts are available.

• Loksado: 20 km northeast — Dayak highland area with bamboo rafting, waterfalls, and traditional longhouses.
• Nagara: 10 km south — known for traditional diamond polishing.
• Martapura: 60 km southwest — the diamond market of Kalimantan.
• Banjarmasin: 100 km southwest — the capital of South Kalimantan with floating markets.
• Amuntai: 50 km east — water buffalo races and Candi Agung temple.