Ketapang

Ketapang is the capital of Ketapang Regency in West Kalimantan, located on the Pawan River about 45 km inland from the coast. With a population of around 100,000, it is the second-largest city in West Kalimantan after Pontianak. The city is an important centre for the region's palm oil, rubber, timber, and mining industries, and serves as the main gateway for travellers heading to Gunung Palung National Park.

The city's name means "tamarind" in Indonesian. The Pawan River dominates the city's layout, with much of the commercial activity centred along its banks. Ketapang has a diverse population of Dayak, Malay, Chinese, and Javanese communities. The nearby town of Sukadana, 60 km north, is the main access point for Gunung Palung National Park.

The climate is tropical and humid year-round, with temperatures of 25–33°C and a rainy season from October to April.

By Plane

Rahadi Osman Airport (KTG) is about 10 km from the city centre, with flights from Pontianak operated by Wings Air. Flight time is about 45 minutes. From Pontianak's Supadio Airport (PNK), there are flights from Jakarta, Surabaya, and other major cities.

By Car / Road

From Pontianak, Ketapang is about 250 km south — a 6–8 hour drive via the Trans-Kalimantan highway. The road is paved but sections are narrow and winding. Buses run daily from Pontianak to Ketapang (Rp 150,000–250,000). Alternatively, ferries operate between Pontianak and Ketapang (12 hours overnight).

Angkot minibuses serve routes within Ketapang. Ojek and becak are common for short trips. The city is walkable in the central area around the riverfront. For trips to Sukadana or Gunung Palung, arrange a shared taxi or hire a car.

• Pawan River: The riverfront is the city's focal point — watch river traffic, traditional wooden boats, and daily life.

• Gunung Palung National Park: The main reason most visitors come to Ketapang — about 60 km north via Sukadana.

• Museum Ketapang: A small local museum with cultural artefacts from the Dayak and Malay communities.

• Chinese Temple: A historic Chinese temple (Klenteng) in the city centre reflects Ketapang's Chinese heritage.

• Traditional Stilt Houses: Wooden houses on stilts line the river, typical of West Kalimantan's riverine architecture.

• Gunung Palung Excursions: Arrange guided tours from Ketapang to Gunung Palung National Park for orangutan trekking.

• River Cruises: Boat trips on the Pawan River to explore the mangrove-lined waterways.

• Dayak Cultural Visits: Arrange trips to surrounding Dayak villages for traditional dance and crafts.

• Sukadana Beach: Visit the coastal town of Sukadana, 60 km north, with its beach and harbour.

• Ikan Patin: Freshwater catfish — Ketapang specialty, often served grilled or in yellow turmeric soup.
• Nasi Kuning: Yellow rice with side dishes — a popular breakfast.
• Bubur Pedas: A spicy rice porridge unique to West Kalimantan, made with shredded chicken and vegetables.
• Seafood: Fresh fish, prawns, and crab available at the Pasar Ikan (fish market).

Bottled water is essential. Sweet tea and coffee are everywhere. Fresh coconut water is sold at the market. Tap water is not drinkable.

• Budget: Hotel Rahayu Ketapang (from Rp 150,000/night), losmen near the bus terminal.
• Mid-range: Hotel Tanjung Ketapang (Rp 300,000–500,000/night), Mahkota Hotel Ketapang (Rp 350,000–550,000/night).
• Eco-lodge: Homestays in Sukadana for park visitors (Rp 200,000–400,000/night).

• Pasar Ketapang: The main market for fresh produce, dried fish, and local crafts.
• Dayak Handicrafts: Woven baskets, beadwork, and carved wooden items.
• Souvenirs: T-shirts and handicrafts from Gunung Palung National Park are available in Sukadana.

• Gunung Palung National Park: 60 km north — orangutan trekking and rainforest hiking.
• Sukadana: 60 km north — coastal gateway to Gunung Palung.
• Pontianak: 250 km northwest — the capital of West Kalimantan.
• Pawan River: Continue upstream into the interior by boat.