Martapura

Martapura is a city in South Kalimantan, about 40 km east of Banjarmasin. It is famous throughout Indonesia as the centre of diamond and gemstone mining, cutting, and trading. The city's name means "the diamond river" — a reference to the gem-rich alluvial deposits found in the surrounding hills and river beds. Martapura is also the capital of the Banjar Regency and an important religious centre with the Al-Karomah Great Mosque.

The history of Martapura is closely tied to the diamond trade that has flourished here for centuries. Traditional diamond mining still takes place in villages around the city, using methods passed down through generations. The city's main street is lined with jewellery shops displaying diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and other gemstones in every conceivable setting.

The climate is tropical with temperatures of 24–34°C year-round.

By Plane

Syamsudin Noor International Airport (BDJ) is about 20 km west, closer to Banjarbaru. A 30-minute drive connects the airport to Martapura.

By Car / Road

From Banjarmasin, Martapura is 40 km east via a good paved road (45 minutes by car). Frequent angkot and minibuses connect Banjarmasin's Terminal KM 6 with Martapura (Rp 15,000–25,000). From Banjarbaru, it's just 15 km (20 minutes).

Martapura's gemstone district along Jl. Ahmad Yani is walkable. Becak and ojek are common for short trips. Angkot connect the city centre with the surrounding mining villages.

• Traditional Diamond Mines: In villages such as Cempaka and Riam Kanan — visit to see miners digging pits and sifting gravel for diamonds the old-fashioned way.

• Al-Karomah Great Mosque: An imposing modern mosque with striking golden domes and minarets.

• Gemstone Shops: Hundreds of jewellery shops line Jl. Ahmad Yani — even window-shopping is a dazzling experience.

• Martapura Diamond Market (Pasar Intan Martapura): The traditional market for uncut and cut gemstones.

• Gemstone Shopping: The main activity — browse, learn, and buy. Bargaining is expected. Prices range from Rp 50,000 for small stones to millions for top-grade diamonds.

• Diamond Mine Tour: Visit the traditional mining sites in Cempaka district (about 7 km from Martapura).

• Watch Diamond Cutting: Some shops have workshops where you can see gem cutters at work.

• Visit the Great Mosque: Non-Muslims are welcome outside prayer times.

• Ketupat Kandangan: Rice cakes served with spiced coconut gravy — a Banjarese classic widely available in Martapura.
• Nasi Kuning Martapura: Yellow rice with side dishes available at morning warung.
• Soto Banjar: Chicken soup with vermicelli — found at food stalls around the market.
• Puspa Agung Restaurant: A well-known local restaurant serving Banjarese cuisine.

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

• Budget: Losmen and basic hotels near the market (Rp 100,000–200,000/night).
• Mid-range: Hotel Martapura Palace (Rp 250,000–400,000/night), Hotel Limmon (Rp 300,000–500,000/night).
• Business: Several business-class hotels catering to gemstone buyers.

Diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and other gemstones in uncut or finished form. Banjarese sasirangan (traditional tie-dye fabric) is also a good purchase. Bargaining is part of the culture — start at 30–50% of the asking price.

• Banjarbaru: 15 km west — new capital of South Kalimantan with Lambung Mangkurat Museum.
• Banjarmasin: 40 km west — the river city with floating markets and canals.
• Riam Kanan Dam: 30 km east — a scenic reservoir for water sports and relaxation.
• Loksado: 80 km northeast — Dayak highlands with bamboo rafting.
• Kandangan: 60 km northeast — gateway to the Meratus Mountains.