About Bulungan

Bulungan – Dayak Longhouses and Rainforest on the Kayan River

Bulungan Regency lies in North Kalimantan province in northern Borneo, across the Kayan River watershed. The regional capital, Tanjung Selor, sits at the mouth of the Kayan River. Bulungan is the legacy of the former Bulungan Sultanate – today it serves as the gateway to Kayan Mentarang National Park and the living culture of Dayak communities.

Attractions and Activities

Kayan Mentarang National Park is one of Borneo's largest protected areas (1.35 million hectares): pristine rainforest home to rhinoceros hornbills, Bornean clouded leopards and the rare Mueller's hawk-eagle. Organised expeditions run into the park interior. Boat trips on the Kayan River lead to traditional Dayak longhouses (lamin), where carved pillars and communal living provide an authentic experience. In Tanjung Selor, the Bulungan Sultanate Palace Museum (Istana Bulungan) displays the sultanate's crowns, weapons and textiles. Weight Waterfall (Air Terjun Weight) is the area's most popular natural attraction.

Culture and Cuisine

The Dayak Kayan and Kenyah tribes carry the region's indigenous culture – earlobe stretching, tattooing and traditional dances remain living traditions. Malay fishing communities live along the coast. Local cuisine features amplang (fish crackers), nasi kuning (yellow spiced rice), and ayam cincane (spicy chicken).

Public Safety

Bulungan is fundamentally safe. You can move around Tanjung Selor at night without concern. Only visit the national park and longhouses with a local guide – the jungle is dense and navigation is difficult. Boating on the Kayan River is safe with reliable operators, but watch for flooding during the rainy season. Medical care is basic; the nearest more advanced hospital is in Tarakan city (reachable by ferry).

Practical Information

From Tarakan Juwata Airport, Tanjung Selor is reachable by ferry or speedboat (approx. 2–3 hours). Direct flights from Balikpapan and Jakarta also serve Tanjung Selor's small airport. The best time to visit is May to September. Accommodation: simple guesthouses in Tanjung Selor.

North Kalimantan is Indonesia's newest province (2012) and one of its least touched regions. Kayan Mentarang National Park, Dayak Kenyah culture, and pristine rainforests make it an explorer's paradise. The province borders Malaysia and features cave systems as additional attractions.

Where is North Kalimantan?

The province is located in northern Borneo, bordering Malaysia's Sarawak state. Tarakan is the main air hub, Tanjung Selor is the provincial capital. The region's limited accessibility helps preserve its natural integrity.

What to See?

1. Kayan Mentarang National Park

One of Southeast Asia's largest untouched rainforests. The park spans 1.4 million hectares and is the ancestral land of Dayak Kenyah and Punan communities. Trekking, river expeditions, and visits to traditional villages offer challenging but unforgettable experiences.

2. Dayak Kenyah Culture

The Dayak Kenyah people's traditional longhouses, tattoos, and ceremonies offer one of the most authentic Borneo cultural experiences. Long Nawang and Long Pujungan villages are culture centers, though access is more difficult.

3. Pristine Rainforests

North Kalimantan's rainforests are a treasure trove of biodiversity. Orangutans, Bornean rhinoceros, sun bears, and numerous endemic bird species live here. A local guide is required for trekking.

4. Malaysia Border and Tarakan

Tarakan island city has historical significance from World War II. Border crossings toward Malaysia offer opportunities for comparative exploration of the region.

5. Cave Systems

The province hides numerous caves suited for adventurous trekkers. The caves are often sites of Dayak traditions as well.

When to Visit?

March–October is the dry season, ideal for trekking and river expeditions. During the rainy season, roads are often impassable.

How Long to Stay?

5–8 days (more time needed for deeper Kayan Mentarang exploration):

1–2 days: Tarakan and surroundings
3–5 days: Kayan Mentarang expedition and Dayak villages
1 day: Caves or local culture

Summary

North Kalimantan is for those seeking real adventure and untouched nature. Kayan Mentarang and Dayak Kenyah culture together provide an experience you'll find in few other places.

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