Palangkaraya

Palangka Raya is the capital of Central Kalimantan, located on the Kahayan River about 100 km inland from the Java Sea. Established in 1957 as the provincial capital, it is a planned city with wide boulevards, green spaces, and a spacious layout that sets it apart from the dense chaos of many Indonesian cities. The population is around 300,000, with a significant Dayak population alongside Banjarese, Javanese, and other ethnic groups.

The city was designed by the Dutch-educated architect Sukarno-era planners, envisioned as the future capital of an independent Kalimantan state. While that never materialised, Palangka Raya became the capital of Central Kalimantan when the province was created. The city's name comes from the Dayak Ngaju language — "palangka" meaning a sacred offering place and "raya" meaning great.

Palangka Raya is the primary gateway to Sebangau National Park, one of the best places in the world to see wild orangutans in peat swamp forest. It also serves as a base for exploring Dayak cultural sites and river journeys on the Kahayan River.

The climate is tropical with average temperatures of 25–33°C. The rainy season is November–April. June–September is drier.

By Plane

Tjilik Riwut Airport (PKY) serves direct flights from Jakarta, Surabaya, Balikpapan, and Banjarmasin. The airport is about 10 km from the city centre — a 20-minute taxi ride (approximately Rp 100,000–150,000).

By Car / Road

Palangka Raya is connected to Banjarmasin (6 hours, 300 km) and Balikpapan (10 hours) via the Trans-Kalimantan highway. Buses operate from both cities.

Angkot minibuses serve the main routes. Taxis and ride-hailing apps (Gojek, Grab) are widely available. The city is relatively spread out — most visitors use ride-hailing or rental cars. Motorbike rental is available.

• Sebangau National Park: The top attraction — 30 minutes south of the city in Kereng Bangkirai. Elevated boardwalks through peat swamp forest with wild orangutans. See separate entry.

• Kahayan River: The wide river that flows through the city — the centre of local life.

• Bundaran Besar (Great Roundabout): The city's central landmark with a giant Dayak statue.

• Museum Balanga: A museum of Dayak culture with artefacts, traditional weapons, and displays on Central Kalimantan's history. Jl. Tjilik Riwut Km 1. Open daily.

• Istana Iskandar: The governor's office — a notable example of Dayak-inspired architecture.

• Pasar Besar (Great Market): The main traditional market for fresh produce, crafts, and local foods.

• Orangutan Trekking at Sebangau: The main activity — visit Kereng Bangkirai boardwalk and spot wild orangutans.

• Kahayan River Cruise: Take a boat trip on the Kahayan to see riverside villages and wildlife.

• Dayak Cultural Performances: Traditional dance and music performances are occasionally held at cultural centres and hotels.

• Borneo Nature Foundation Visit: Arrange a visit to the conservation research station in Sebangau.

• Juhu Singkah: Palm heart cooked in coconut milk — a Dayak specialty.
• Ikan Patin: Catfish prepared in various ways — grilled, fried, or in soup.
• Kalumpe: A Dayak dish of cassava leaves cooked in spiced coconut milk.
• RM Palangkaraya: Several restaurants along Jl. Tjilik Riwut serve Dayak and Banjarese cuisine.
• Kereng Bangkirai Warung: Simple food stalls at Sebangau entrance.

Bottled water is essential. Es teh manis (sweet iced tea) and kopi khas Dayak (Dayak-style coffee) are recommended. Tap water is not drinkable.

• Budget: Losmen and basic hotels near the market (Rp 150,000–250,000/night).
• Mid-range: Swiss-Belhotel Danum Palangka Raya (Rp 350,000–650,000/night), Bukit Tinggi Residence (Rp 300,000–500,000/night).
• Upscale: Best Western Batang Garing (Rp 500,000–800,000/night).
• Eco-lodge: Homestays in Kereng Bangkirai for Sebangau access (Rp 200,000–350,000/night).

• Pasar Besar: Traditional market for Dayak handicrafts, woven goods (purun mats), and local foods.
• Sasirangan: Traditional Banjarese tie-dye fabric available in the market.
• Dayak Wood Carvings: Masks, statues, and decorative items sold in shops around the city.

• Sebangau National Park: 20 km south — peat swamp forest with wild orangutans.
• Kereng Bangkirai: The village at Sebangau's entrance — boardwalk access to the park.
• Bukit Raya National Park: 200 km northeast — mountainous park with Dayak cultural sites.
• Kahayan River: Continue upriver into Dayak highlands by boat.