Kotawaringin Barat – Orangutans and Rainforest in Tanjung Puting National Park
Kotawaringin Barat Regency lies in the south-western part of Central Kalimantan province, on the Java Sea coast. Its capital is Pangkalan Bun. The region is home to the world-famous Tanjung Puting National Park – one of Borneo’s most important orangutan tourism destinations.
Attractions and Activities
Tanjung Puting National Park is Borneo’s largest orangutan conservation area: Camp Leakey research station was founded by Biruté Galdikas in 1971. Klotok (traditional river boat) tours last 2–4 days: travelling upstream on the Sekonyer River, you can see orangutans, proboscis monkeys and crocodiles. At feeding stations (Tanjung Harapan, Pondok Tanggui, Camp Leakey), wild orangutans are fed on a daily schedule. Pangkalan Bun Istana (Kotawaringin Sultanate palace) is a historical attraction.
Culture and Cuisine
The region is the territory of the historical Kotawaringin Sultanate: Malay and Dayak cultural heritage. Cuisine is Kalimantanese: Soto Banjar influence, kelakai (fern salad), ikan patin (catfish variety) and local fruits.
Public Safety
In the national park, do not touch or feed orangutans (except at official feedings). On klotok tours, travel agencies provide safe equipment. Medical care: basic hospital in Pangkalan Bun.
Practical Information
Pangkalan Bun Iskandar Airport has direct flights from Jakarta and Semarang. Klotok tours depart from Kumai Port (approx. 30 minutes from Pangkalan Bun). The best time to visit is May to September. Accommodation: hotels in Pangkalan Bun; on-deck cabins on klotok boats.