About Kutai Kartanegara

Kutai Kartanegara – The Kutai Sultanate and the Mahakam River in East Kalimantan

Kutai Kartanegara Regency lies in the centre of East Kalimantan province, along the lower-middle section of the Mahakam River. Its capital is Tenggarong, approximately 30 km from Samarinda. The region is the heir of the historical Kutai Sultanate – one of Indonesia’s oldest (4th century) Hindu kingdoms.

Attractions and Activities

Mulawarman Museum in Tenggarong operates in the Kutai Sultanate palace: sultanate crowns, weapons, Dayak artefacts and Hindu-era inscriptions. Kumala Island (Pulau Kumala) on the Mahakam River is a recreation park. Boat tours on the Mahakam can be arranged: Irrawaddy dolphins can be observed near Muara Muntai. Samboja Lestari (Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation) is an orangutan and sun bear rehabilitation centre in Samboja.

Culture and Cuisine

The Kutai Sultanate’s Malay and Dayak heritage: the Erau Festival in Tenggarong is held annually – sultanate traditions, Dayak dances and water sports. Amplang (fish cracker) is Kutai Kartanegara’s most famous snack. Cuisine is Kalimantanese: nasi kuning (yellow spiced rice), ayam cincane (spiced chicken) and udang galah (giant river prawn).

Public Safety

Kutai Kartanegara is a safe region. Watch for traffic when boating on the Mahakam. Medical care: basic hospital in Tenggarong; Samarinda (approx. 30 minutes) has full hospital facilities.

Practical Information

From Balikpapan Sepinggan Airport, approximately 2 hours north by car. From Samarinda, approximately 30 minutes. The best time to visit is May to September. Accommodation: hotels in Tenggarong and Samarinda.

About East Kalimantan

East Kalimantan is Borneo's largest province, where the Derawan Islands' marine paradise, the Mahakam River's culture, and the new capital Nusantara converge. The region is world-famous for diving, sea turtles, and the stingless jellyfish lake.

Where is East Kalimantan?

The province is located on Borneo's eastern coast, along the Celebes Sea. Balikpapan and Samarinda are the main cities, both with international airports. Indonesia's planned new capital, Nusantara, is currently under construction in the province's northern part.

What to See?

1. Derawan Islands – Marine Paradise

The Derawan Islands are an archipelago with crystal-clear waters where sea turtles, manta rays, and sponges await. Kakaban Island's stingless jellyfish lake is unique: the jellyfish don't sting, and you can swim among them. Sangalaki Island is a nesting site for manta rays and sea turtles.

2. Kutai National Park

Kutai National Park is one of Borneo's oldest protected areas. Orangutans, Bornean elephants, and rare bird species live here. The park spans rainforests around Sangatta.

3. Mahakam River

Indonesia's third-longest river is the stage for Dayak and Banjar culture. River cruises offer sightings of dolphins, traditional villages, and floating markets. Tenggarong and Kutai Kartanegara are historically significant towns along the river.

4. Nusantara – The New Capital

Nusantara, Indonesia's planned new capital, is currently under construction in northern East Kalimantan. The implementation is in progress, and the region is becoming an increasingly important tourism and economic hub.

5. Balikpapan and Samarinda

Balikpapan is the oil industry center, but Kumala Beach and local gastronomy are also attractive. Samarinda is the gateway to the Mahakam River, from where river excursions depart.

When to Visit?

March–October is the dry season, ideal for diving at the Derawan Islands and river tours. The jellyfish lake is visitable year-round.

How Long to Stay?

5–7 days recommended:

2–3 days: Derawan Islands, diving, jellyfish lake
1–2 days: Mahakam River cruise
1 day: Kutai National Park
1 day: Balikpapan or Samarinda

Summary

East Kalimantan is where marine experiences meet river culture. The Derawan Islands offer world-class diving, while the Mahakam River provides an authentic Borneo experience.

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