Loksado

Loksado is a highland area in the Meratus Mountains of South Kalimantan, about 20 km northeast of Kandangan. It is the traditional homeland of the Meratus Dayak people, who maintain their customs, longhouses, and shifting agriculture in the cool mountain forests. The area is renowned for its scenic beauty — terraced rice paddies, bamboo forests, waterfalls, and the clear, rushing Amandit River.

The main village of Loksado is a cluster of traditional wooden houses and a few simple guesthouses. It serves as the base for exploring the surrounding highlands. The Meratus Dayak people practise a traditional form of agriculture called bahuma (shifting rice cultivation) and are known for their hospitality. Bamboo rafting on the Amandit River is the signature experience.

The altitude (500–1,000 m) gives Loksado a pleasantly cool climate, with daytime temperatures of 22–28°C and cooler nights. The rainy season runs November–April. The best time to visit is June–September.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Syamsudin Noor International Airport (BDJ) in Banjarmasin, about 120 km southwest (3–4 hours by road).

By Car / Road

From Banjarmasin, take the Trans-Kalimantan highway to Kandangan (2.5 hours), then continue northeast for 20 km to Loksado. The road from Kandangan is narrow and winding with steep sections — final access is by 4WD or ojek. Public minibuses run from Kandangan's market to Loksado (Rp 20,000–30,000).

Loksado village is walkable. For exploring the surrounding highlands, hiking and ojek are the main options. The Amandit River is navigable by bamboo raft for the rafting experience. A guide is recommended for treks to waterfalls and Dayak villages.

• Meratus Mountain Scenery: Terraced rice fields, bamboo groves, and misty mountain views — some of the most beautiful landscapes in Kalimantan.

• Dayak Longhouses: Traditional balai (communal longhouses) in and around Loksado — some still actively used for community gatherings.

• Loksado Waterfalls: Several waterfalls in the surrounding hills, the most accessible being Haruan Waterfall, about 30 minutes' walk from the village.

• Amandit River: Clear, fast-flowing river bordered by bamboo and forest.

• Traditional Rice Terraces: Carved into the hillsides by Dayak farmers using traditional techniques.

• Bamboo Rafting (Bamboo Rafting Loksado): The number one activity — ride traditional bamboo rafts down the Amandit River through rapids and calm stretches. A full-day trip includes lunch. Cost approximately Rp 200,000–300,000 per raft (2–3 people).

• Jungle Trekking: Guided treks to Dayak villages, waterfalls, and viewpoints in the Meratus Mountains.

• Dayak Homestay: Stay with a Meratus Dayak family to experience traditional life, foods, and customs.

• Visit Traditional Rubber Tapping: See how local farmers collect rubber latex from trees.

• Photography: The rice terraces, bamboo forests, and longhouses offer exceptional photo opportunities.

Dayak cuisine features locally grown rice, freshwater fish, wild ferns (paku), bamboo shoots, and jungle vegetables. Ikan haruan (snakehead fish) grilled with local spices is a staple. Meals are simple but fresh. Most warung serve nasi goreng and mie goreng for Rp 15,000–25,000.

The mountain streams provide clean water — but still use bottled or purified water. Sweet tea and coffee are served everywhere. Local tuak (palm wine) is sometimes available in Dayak villages.

• Budget: Loksado homestays (Rp 100,000–200,000/night) — very basic, sleeping on mats in a Dayak family home.
• Mid-range: Loksado Guesthouse or Rimba Loksado Lodge (Rp 200,000–350,000/night) — simple rooms with shared bathroom.
• Eco-lodge: Green Inn Loksado (Rp 250,000–400,000/night) — the most comfortable option.

Loksado's market sells fresh local produce. Meratus Dayak handicrafts — woven baskets, mats, and traditional fabrics — can be purchased directly from villagers. Cash is essential — there are no ATMs in Loksado.

• Kandangan: 20 km southwest — the gateway market town.
• Nagara: 30 km south — diamond polishing village.
• Martapura: 80 km southwest — the diamond market of Kalimantan.
• Banjarmasin: 120 km southwest — floating markets and Banjarese culture.
• Amuntai: 80 km east — water buffalo races and Candi Agung.