About Banjar

Banjar – Diamond Markets and Floating Markets in South Kalimantan

Banjar Regency lies in the central part of South Kalimantan province, east of Banjarmasin city. Its capital is Martapura, Indonesia’s most famous gemstone trading town. The region is located within a network of Barito River tributaries, where waterway life remains a defining feature.

Attractions and Activities

Martapura Diamond Market (Pasar Intan) is Indonesia’s largest gemstone market: diamonds, sapphires and amethysts are on offer. Traditional diamond mining near Cempaka can be observed – miners work with manual methods. Lok Baintan floating market operates as a morning market on a Barito tributary: traders sell fruit, vegetables and local food from canoes. Riam Kanan Reservoir (Waduk Ir. PM Noor) is suitable for boating and fishing, set among green hills.

Culture and Cuisine

The Banjarese people are Kalimantan’s largest Malay ethnic group, with strong Islamic traditions. The area around Sungai Jingah features several historic mosques. Soto Banjar (chicken soup with rice cakes and glass noodles) is the region’s most famous dish. Wadai (traditional cakes) and ketupat kandangan (rice cakes with fish curry) are local specialities.

Public Safety

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.

Practical Information

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.

About South Kalimantan

South Kalimantan is the heart of Banjar culture, where floating markets, the Meratus Mountains, and diamond mining traditions offer a unique experience. Banjarmasin, the "city of rivers," is world-famous for Pasar Terapung (floating market), and Lok Baintan offers the most authentic such experience.

Where is South Kalimantan?

The province is located in southern Borneo, along the Java Sea coast. Banjarmasin is the capital, accessible by air from Jakarta and Balikpapan. The region's rivers and canals form the backbone of city life.

What to See?

1. Pasar Terapung – Floating Markets

Banjarmasin's floating markets are one of the world's most photographed cultural sights. In the early morning hours, boats laden with vegetables, fruit, and local specialties float along the rivers. Lok Baintan is the largest and most authentic floating market, where local women sell from their boats.

2. Lok Baintan

Lok Baintan on the Martapura River offers the classic floating market experience. Visit between 5–7 AM when the market is liveliest. Boat tours also allow you to taste local dishes.

3. Meratus Mountains

The Meratus Mountains are South Kalimantan's green lung. Dayak Bukit communities live here, and the range's trekking trails, waterfalls, and cooler climate provide a pleasant escape from the hot coast.

4. Diamond Mining and Martapura

Martapura is famous for diamond and gemstone processing. Local markets and workshops let you observe the processing. The Cempaka diamond mine is a unique attraction.

5. Banjar Culture

Banjar people's culture – traditional houses, sasirangan textiles, gastronomy – is the soul of South Kalimantan. Soto banjar and ketupat kandangan are local specialties.

When to Visit?

May–September is the dry season, ideal for river tours and mountain excursions. Floating markets are visitable year-round.

How Long to Stay?

3–5 days recommended:

1 day: Banjarmasin, early morning floating market (Lok Baintan)
1 day: Martapura, diamond workshops, markets
1–2 days: Meratus Mountains trek

Summary

South Kalimantan is paradise for floating markets and Banjar culture. The Lok Baintan morning experience and Meratus Mountains' natural beauty together provide an unforgettable trip.

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