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North Kalimantan
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Discover North Kalimantan: Indonesia's hidden gem with untouched rainforests, rare wildlife, and vibrant cultural heritage.

North Kalimantan, Indonesia's youngest province, offers a pristine and unspoiled wilderness for adventurous travelers. Known for its dense rainforests, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, North Kalimantan provides a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
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Explorers can trek through the lush forests of Kayan Mentarang National Park, home to rare species like the Bornean clouded leopard and the orangutan. The park is also a haven for bird watchers, with over 300 species of birds inhabiting the area. For those interested in marine life, the Derawan Islands offer some of the best diving spots in the region, where you can swim alongside manta rays, sea turtles, and vibrant coral reefs.
Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the province's indigenous Dayak tribes, who maintain their traditional way of life. You can visit longhouses, experience traditional ceremonies, and learn about their unique customs and crafts. The local markets are also a great place to sample exotic fruits and handmade souvenirs.
With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural experiences, North Kalimantan promises an unforgettable journey into one of Indonesia's most remote and enthralling regions.

When is the best time to visit North Kalimantan?

Best: February–April · 29–30°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January29200
February (best)29180
March (best)30170
April (best)30180
May30190
June30200
July30210
August30200
September30190
October30180
November30190
December29200

Getting to and around North Kalimantan

How to get there

North Kalimantan can be accessed via several routes. The main entry point by air is Juwata International Airport in Tarakan. There are frequent flights from major Indonesian cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, and Balikpapan. Alternatively, you can reach North Kalimantan by sea, with ferries operating from Tawau in Malaysia to Nunukan. Overland travel is also possible from Sabah, Malaysia, through the border at Simanggaris.

Transportation

Within North Kalimantan, transportation options include taxis, rented cars, and motorbikes. In urban areas like Tarakan, public minibuses (angkot) are common and inexpensive. For exploring more remote areas, consider renting a 4WD vehicle due to the challenging terrain. River transport is also popular, especially along the Kayan and Sesayap rivers; speedboats and traditional longboats (klotok) are widely used.

Destinations in North Kalimantan

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Best attractions in North Kalimantan

North Kalimantan, Indonesia, is a hidden gem brimming with natural wonders and cultural richness. Visitors can explore the pristine Kayan Mentarang National Park, home to diverse wildlife and lush rainforests, ideal for trekking and bird-watching. The region's rivers, such as the mighty Kayan and Sesayap, offer thrilling opportunities for river cruises and spotting the endemic Irrawaddy dolphins. History enthusiasts will be captivated by the ancient rock carvings in the Apau Ping region and the traditional Dayak villages where you can witness age-old customs and vibrant festivals. For a unique experience, venture to the limestone caves of Batu Ritung and marvel at the intricate stalactites and stalagmites. The bustling port town of Tarakan provides a gateway to the region's rich maritime culture, with bustling markets and delicious seafood to savor. North Kalimantan promises an adventure through untouched nature and a deep dive into Indonesia's diverse heritage.

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Best landmarks in North Kalimantan

North Kalimantan, Indonesia's youngest province, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural richness that beckons adventurers and history enthusiasts alike. Explore the pristine wilderness of Kayan Mentarang National Park, home to exotic wildlife and ancient forest tribes, or take a scenic boat ride along the Sebuku River, where traditional Dayak villages dot the riverside, offering a glimpse into their vibrant culture and age-old traditions. The historical city of Tarakan, once a pivotal point during World War II, boasts intriguing war relics and the tranquil Amal Beach, perfect for a serene escape. For the more adventurous, the limestone caves of Batu Ritung offer spelunking opportunities amidst breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites. Whether you're trekking through dense jungles, navigating winding rivers, or immersing yourself in the local traditions, North Kalimantan promises an unforgettable journey through one of Indonesia's most unspoiled and culturally rich regions.

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Explore North Kalimantan on the map

Plan your trip on one map. See where the top cities, national parks and sights are, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in North Kalimantan

North Kalimantan offers a vibrant dining scene that promises a unique culinary adventure for visitors. Here, you can savor traditional Indonesian dishes like Nasi Kuning, a fragrant yellow rice dish often served with a variety of sides including fried chicken, sambal, and boiled eggs. Seafood lovers will relish the fresh catches from the nearby seas, prepared in local styles that highlight the region's rich maritime bounty. Don't miss the opportunity to try local Dayak cuisine, which features exotic ingredients like jungle ferns and river fish, cooked in bamboo tubes for an authentic taste of the rainforest. Street food stalls and night markets buzz with activity, offering everything from satay skewers to sweet treats like Pisang Goreng (fried bananas). The mix of indigenous flavors and multicultural influences ensures that every meal in North Kalimantan is a delightful discovery waiting to be made.

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Best bars in North Kalimantan

North Kalimantan offers a unique and vibrant nightlife that blends traditional charm with modern excitement. Visitors can expect to find an array of lively bars and nightclubs, especially in the bustling city of Tarakan, where the nightlife scene is alive with the sound of live music, DJs, and cultural performances. Local watering holes serve up a mix of Indonesian cocktails and international favorites, while street markets and night bazaars provide an opportunity to sample delicious local cuisine under the stars. Those looking for a more relaxed evening can enjoy the serene ambiance of riverside cafes and lounges, where the tranquil waters of the Kayan River set the perfect backdrop for a memorable night out.

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Best nightclubs in North Kalimantan

North Kalimantan offers a unique and vibrant nightlife that blends traditional charm with modern excitement. Visitors can expect to find an array of lively bars and nightclubs, especially in the bustling city of Tarakan, where the nightlife scene is alive with the sound of live music, DJs, and cultural performances. Local watering holes serve up a mix of Indonesian cocktails and international favorites, while street markets and night bazaars provide an opportunity to sample delicious local cuisine under the stars. Those looking for a more relaxed evening can enjoy the serene ambiance of riverside cafes and lounges, where the tranquil waters of the Kayan River set the perfect backdrop for a memorable night out.

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Best shops in North Kalimantan

In North Kalimantan, the shopping scene is a vibrant tapestry of traditional and modern experiences that captivate the senses. Visitors can explore bustling local markets like Pasar Tradisional Tanjung Selor, where the air is filled with the aroma of exotic spices and fresh produce, and the stalls overflow with handcrafted textiles, intricate beadwork, and unique wooden carvings crafted by indigenous artisans. For those seeking a more contemporary shopping experience, the region also boasts modern malls and boutiques in Tarakan, offering everything from fashion and electronics to local delicacies and souvenirs. Each shopping destination in North Kalimantan provides a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and contemporary lifestyle of this enchanting region.

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North Kalimantan essentials

Currency and Payment
The official currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and some restaurants, but cash is preferred in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in major towns like Tarakan, Tanjung Selor, and Nunukan. It’s advisable to carry enough cash when traveling to remote areas.
Safety
North Kalimantan is generally safe for tourists, but it’s important to stay cautious. Avoid displaying valuables and be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. Some areas, particularly remote regions near the border, may have higher crime rates. Always check the latest travel advisories and consider hiring a local guide when venturing into less-traveled areas.
Emergency Situations
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for general assistance. For medical emergencies, visit the nearest hospital or clinic; major towns have well-equipped medical facilities. It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in urban areas. The local police can be reached by dialing 110.
Do's and Don'ts
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural and religious areas. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes when entering mosques and avoid interrupting prayer times. Public Transport: Do be respectful to drivers and fellow passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a slight bow. Handshakes are common but wait for the other person to extend their hand first. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food and drinks offered by hosts. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
Local Tips
To experience North Kalimantan like a local, visit traditional markets where you can buy fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with the Dayak and Tidung communities to learn about their customs and traditions. Don’t miss exploring the Kayan Mentarang National Park for a unique eco-tourism experience. Try traditional dishes like 'sate payau' (deer satay) and 'nasi subut' (rice with wild ferns).
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloHalo[ha-lo]
GoodbyeSelamat tinggal[sə-lə-mat ting-gal]
YesIya[ee-ya]
NoTidak[tee-dak]
Please/You're welcomeSilakan[see-la-kan]
Thank youTerima kasih[tə-ree-ma ka-see]
Excuse me/SorryMaaf[ma-af]
How are you?Apa kabar?[a-pa ka-bar]
Fine. And you?Baik. Dan kamu?[ba-eek. dan ka-moo]
Do you speak English?Apakah kamu bisa berbahasa Inggris?[a-pa-ka kamu bi-sa ber-ba-ha-sa ing-gris]
I don't understandSaya tidak mengerti[sa-ya tee-dak meng-er-ti]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSaya ingin melihat menu, silakan[sa-ya in-gin me-li-hat me-nu, see-la-kan]
I don't eat meatSaya tidak makan daging[sa-ya tee-dak ma-kan da-ging]
Cheers!Selamat menikmati![se-la-mat menik-ma-ti]
I would like to pay, pleaseSaya ingin membayar, silakan[sa-ya in-gin mem-ba-yar, see-la-kan]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Tolong![to-long]
Go away!Pergi jauh![per-gi ja-oh]
Call the Police!Panggil polisi![pang-gil po-li-si]
Call a doctor!Panggil dokter![pang-gil dok-ter]
I'm lostSaya tersesat[sa-ya ter-se-sat]
I'm illSaya sakit[sa-ya sa-kit]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Saya ingin membeli...[sa-ya in-gin mem-be-li...]
I'm just lookingSaya hanya melihat[sa-ya han-ya me-li-hat]
How much is it?Berapa harganya?[be-ra-pa har-ga-nya]
That's too expensiveItu terlalu mahal[ee-tu ter-la-loo ma-hal]
Can you lower the price?Bisakah kamu menurunkan harga?[bi-sa-kah ka-mu me-nu-run-kan har-ga]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?Jam berapa?[jam be-ra-pa]
It's one o'clockJam satu[jam sa-tu]
Half past (10)Setengah sebelas[se-ten-gah se-be-las]
MorningPagi[pa-gee]
AfternoonSiang[si-ang]
EveningSore[so-re]
YesterdayKemarin[ke-ma-rin]
TodayHari ini[ha-ri ee-nee]
TomorrowBesok[be-sok]
1Satu[sa-tu]
2Dua[du-a]
3Tiga[ti-ga]
4Empat[em-pat]
5Lima[lee-ma]
6Enam[e-nam]
7Tujuh[tu-juh]
8Delapan[de-la-pan]
9Sembilan[sem-bi-lan]
10Sepuluh[se-pu-luh]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Di mana ...?[di ma-na ...?]
What's the address?Apa alamatnya?[a-pa a-la-mat-nya]
Can you show me (on the map)?Bisakah kamu tunjukkan (di peta)?[bi-sa-kah ka-mu tun-juk-kan (di pe-ta)?]
When's the next (bus)?Kapan bus berikutnya?[ka-pan bus be-ri-kut-nya]
A ticket (to ....)Sebuah tiket (ke ....)[se-buah ti-ket (ke ....)]

History of North Kalimantan

Ancient Dayak Heritage

North Kalimantan is home to the Dayak people, the indigenous inhabitants of Borneo. The Dayak tribes, known for their unique culture and traditions, have lived in harmony with the dense rainforests for centuries. Their heritage includes intricate beadwork, elaborate wooden carvings, and traditional longhouses. The Dayak's rich oral history and rituals, such as the Tiwah funeral ceremony, reflect their deep spiritual connection to nature and their ancestors.

The Sultanate of Bulungan

The Sultanate of Bulungan was a significant regional power in North Kalimantan, established in the 18th century. The sultanate played a crucial role in the region's trade networks, dealing in forest products, rattan, and camphor. The Bulungan sultans were known for their diplomatic relations with neighboring sultanates and European colonial powers. Today, the remnants of the sultanate, including the royal palace and tombs, offer a glimpse into the region's regal past.

Colonial Era and Japanese Occupation

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, North Kalimantan came under the influence of Dutch colonial rule. The Dutch East India Company established trading posts and extracted natural resources from the region. During World War II, North Kalimantan was occupied by Japanese forces, which led to significant upheaval and hardship for the local population. The impact of these colonial and wartime experiences continues to shape the region's history and identity.

Indonesian Independence and Integration

Following World War II, North Kalimantan became part of the newly independent Republic of Indonesia in 1949. The integration process was marked by efforts to unify the diverse ethnic groups and develop the region's infrastructure. The government focused on improving transportation networks and promoting economic development, which helped to integrate North Kalimantan more closely with the rest of Indonesia.

Formation of North Kalimantan Province

North Kalimantan was officially established as Indonesia's 34th province on October 25, 2012. The creation of the province was aimed at accelerating regional development and improving governance. The capital city, Tanjung Selor, has since become a hub for administrative and economic activities. The formation of the province has brought increased attention to the region's potential and challenges, including sustainable development and conservation of its rich natural resources.

Cultural Diversity and Festivals

North Kalimantan is a melting pot of various ethnic groups, including the Dayak, Tidung, Bulungan, and Javanese. Each group contributes to the region's vibrant cultural tapestry with unique traditions, languages, and festivals. The annual Dayak cultural festival, Irau, showcases traditional music, dance, and crafts, attracting visitors from across Indonesia and beyond. The diverse culinary traditions, such as the unique flavors of Tidung cuisine, also reflect the region's cultural richness.

Ecological Significance and Conservation Efforts

North Kalimantan boasts some of the most biodiverse rainforests in the world, home to endangered species such as orangutans, pygmy elephants, and clouded leopards. The region's ecological significance has prompted various conservation efforts to protect its unique flora and fauna. Initiatives include the establishment of protected areas, such as the Kayan Mentarang National Park, and community-driven conservation programs. These efforts aim to balance ecological preservation with sustainable development for local communities.

North Kalimantan in Photos

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Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to North Kalimantan

Discover North Kalimantan with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide covering attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more. Plan your perfect trip effortlessly.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • Rich content including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
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More about the Evendo app

Explore North Kalimantan like never before with Evendo, the ultimate free app-based travel guide. Discover attractions, book experiences, and enjoy local tips for a memorable trip.

  • History of North Kalimantan
  • Travel essentials and tons of good local advice
  • Intuitive navigation through the app and the destination
  • 'Near Me' feature to easily find nearby attractions
  • Curated local tips to experience the destination like a local
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases or additional costs

Welcome to Evendo, your ultimate travel companion to North Kalimantan, Indonesia. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Evendo is designed to help you make the most out of your trip. Dive into detailed information on all the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities that North Kalimantan has to offer.

Explore iconic landmarks like the Derawan Islands, known for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Visit the majestic Kayan Mentarang National Park, home to a rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. For history enthusiasts, the Bulungan Sultanate Museum offers a glimpse into the region's past.

Food lovers can indulge in local delicacies at renowned restaurants like Rumah Makan Tepi Sungai and Warung Sari Laut. With Evendo, you can easily find and book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app, eliminating the need to search multiple sources.

The app features an intuitive design and easy navigation, ensuring you can explore the city effortlessly. Use the 'Near Me' feature to discover attractions and amenities around your current location. Benefit from curated local tips to experience North Kalimantan like a local. Evendo’s rich set of information includes images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details, making trip planning simple and enjoyable.

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