Banjar – Diamond Markets and Floating Markets in South Kalimantan
Banjar se trouve dans la partie centrale de South Kalimantan province, east of Banjarmasin city. Its capital is Martapura, Indonesia’s most famous gemstone trading town. The region est situé within a network of Barito River tributaries, where waterway life reste a defining feature.
Attractions et activités
Martapura Diamond Market (Pasar Intan) is Indonesia’s largest gemstone market: diamonds, sapphires and amethysts are on offer. Traditional diamond mining près de Cempaka can be observed – miners work with manual methods. Lok Baintan marché flottant operates as a morning market on a Barito tributary: traders sell fruit, vegetables and local food depuis canoes. Riam Kanan Reservoir (Waduk Ir. PM Noor) is suitable for boating and pêche, set among green hills.
Culture et cuisine
The Banjarese people are Kalimantan’s largest Malay ethnic group, with strong Islamic traditions. The area autour de Sungai Jingah présente several historic mosquées. Soto Banjar (chicken soup with rice cakes and glass noodles) is la région’s most famous dish. Wadai (traditionnel cakes) and ketupat kandangan (rice cakes with fish curry) are local specialities.
Sécurité publique
Banjar is a safe region. Watch for currents when travelling by water. Medical care: basic hospital in Martapura town; Banjarmasin (approx. 40 minutes) has full hospital facilities.
Informations pratiques
From Banjarmasin Syamsudin Noor Airport, approximately 40 minutes east by car. The best time to visit is May to October. Accommodation: hotels in Martapura town and Banjarmasin.
