About Lamandau

Lamandau – Dayak Communities and Orangutan Conservation in Central Kalimantan’s Wilderness

Lamandau Regency lies in the south-western part of Central Kalimantan province, along the Lamandau River. Its capital is Nanga Bulik. The region is a remote, forested area known for its Dayak communities and orangutan conservation programmes.

Attractions and Activities

Lamandau Wildlife Reserve (Suaka Margasatwa Lamandau) is an orangutan rehabilitation area: orangutans released through the Friends of the National Parks Foundation (FNPF) programme can be observed in their natural environment. Boat tours on the Lamandau River can be arranged into the depths of the rainforest. Traditional lifestyle of Dayak Tomun communities can be experienced in riverside villages. The region’s pristine tropical forests are also excellent for birdwatching.

Culture and Cuisine

Dayak Tomun and Dayak Katingan ethnic groups form the local population. The tiwah ceremony (secondary burial rite) and traditional gawai harvest festival are part of cultural life. Cuisine is Dayak: juhu singkah (bamboo shoot soup), ikan jelawat (river fish), lemang (sticky rice cooked in bamboo).

Public Safety

Lamandau is a remote and underdeveloped region. Travel with a local guide is recommended. Roads are difficult in the rainy season. Healthcare is very limited; Pangkalan Bun (approx. 3 hours) is the nearest hospital.

Practical Information

From Pangkalan Bun Iskandar Airport, approximately 3 hours north-west by car. The best time to visit is May to September. Accommodation: very limited – simple guesthouses in Nanga Bulik.

About Central Kalimantan

Central Kalimantan is the heart of Indonesian Borneo, where orangutans, peat forests, and Dayak culture offer a unique experience. The province is home to one of the world's largest orangutan rehabilitation centers, and klotok boat cruises on tropical rivers provide unforgettable adventure.

Where is Central Kalimantan?

The province is located in the central part of Borneo island. Palangkaraya is the capital, accessible by air from Jakarta and Balikpapan. Much of the region consists of peat forests and rivers, which serve as the main transport routes.

What to See?

1. Tanjung Puting National Park – Orangutans

Tanjung Puting National Park hosts the world's most famous orangutan rehabilitation center. At Camp Leakey and Pondok Tanggui stations you can observe Sumatran orangutans up close in their natural habitat. The park's protected area encompasses vast peat forests and swamps.

2. Klotok Boat Cruises

The klotok, a traditional wooden-roofed motorboat, is the most authentic way to reach Tanjung Puting on the Sekonyer River. During 1–3 day cruises you can spot proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, and tropical birds along the riverbanks.

3. Proboscis Monkeys

The long-nosed proboscis monkey (bekantan) is endemic to Borneo. They are often seen among the branches along the Sekonyer River. These monkeys can swim and live in mangrove forests.

4. Dayak Culture

Dayak indigenous culture is the soul of Central Kalimantan. Traditional longhouses, carved totems, and ceremonies offer insight into the region's ancient traditions. Several Dayak villages can be visited around Palangkaraya.

5. Peat Forests and Wildlife

The province's vast peat forests form a unique ecosystem. For wildlife observation – birds, reptiles, mammals – river tours and jungle walks are ideal.

When to Visit?

May–September is the dry season, ideal for river cruises and orangutan observation. During the rainy season (November–April) rivers are higher, but roads are harder to navigate.

How Long to Stay?

4–6 days recommended:

2–3 days: Tanjung Puting klotok cruise and orangutans
1 day: Palangkaraya and Dayak villages
1 day: Peat forest trek or river birdwatching

Summary

Central Kalimantan is a dream for orangutan enthusiasts and nature-focused travelers. Klotok cruises, Tanjung Puting, and Dayak culture together provide an experience you won't find elsewhere.

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