About Kapuas Hulu

Kapuas Hulu – The Heart of the World: Rainforests and Dayak Longhouses in Borneo's Interior

Kapuas Hulu Regency lies in the easternmost part of West Kalimantan province, on the upper reaches of the Kapuas River, bordering Malaysian Sarawak. The regional capital is Putussibau. Kapuas Hulu represents the heart of Borneo: two vast national parks (Betung Kerihun and Danau Sentarum), Dayak Iban and Embaloh longhouses, and one of the world's richest rainforests make it special.

Attractions and Activities

Betung Kerihun National Park is one of Borneo's largest pristine rainforests – habitat of orangutans, Bornean clouded leopards, hornbills and rare orchids. Danau Sentarum National Park (Sentarum Lake) is a wetland lake system – the lake level changes seasonally, and aquatic wildlife is extraordinarily rich. Dayak Iban and Embaloh longhouse (rumah betang) villages can be visited – traditional ceremonies, weaving and carving are living traditions. Boat tours on the upper Kapuas River.

Culture and Cuisine

Dayak Iban culture is characterised by the headhunting past's memory and longhouse community life – the gawai Dayak festival (harvest celebration) is the biggest cultural event. Dayak Embaloh communities also live in longhouses. Cuisine is Bornean: pansuh (meat and vegetables cooked in bamboo), wadi (fermented fish), and tuak (palm wine) are local flavours.

Public Safety

Kapuas Hulu is safe but extremely remote. Do not enter national parks without a local guide. River transport is the only option in many places – use reliable boat operators. Medical care is very limited; basic hospital in Putussibau, Pontianak (approx. 1 hour by flight) has the nearest more advanced hospital.

Practical Information

Putussibau Pangsuma Airport receives flights from Pontianak (approx. 1 hour). From Pontianak by car/bus, approximately 16–20 hours. The best time to visit is May to September. Accommodation: simple guesthouses in Putussibau.

About West Kalimantan

West Kalimantan is home to Indonesia's longest river, the Kapuas, where Chinese-Indonesian culture, Dayak traditions, and the equator monument create a unique combination. Singkawang is famous for its spectacular Cap Go Meh (Chinese New Year) celebrations, while Pontianak sits on the equator.

Where is West Kalimantan?

The province is located on Borneo's western coast, bordering Malaysia's Sarawak state. Pontianak is the capital, accessible by air from Jakarta and Kuching. The Kapuas River – Indonesia's longest river (1,143 km) – forms the backbone of regional life.

What to See?

1. Kapuas River

Indonesia's longest river (1,143 km) flows from West Kalimantan south to the Java Sea. River cruises pass Dayak villages, mangrove forests, and local life. The Kapuas Hulu region is particularly authentic.

2. Singkawang – Cap Go Meh and Chinese-Indonesian Culture

Singkawang is called "Indonesia's China" due to its large Chinese-Indonesian community. The Cap Go Meh (end of Chinese lunar year) celebration in February or March is one of the world's most spectacular parades: giant tatung (temple floats), dancers, and fireworks fill the city.

3. Equator Monument (Tugu Khatulistiwa)

Pontianak is the only Indonesian city that lies exactly on the equator. The Tugu Khatulistiwa monument is a popular photo spot, and on the equinox days (March and September) the sun's shadow disappears.

4. Dayak Longhouses

West Kalimantan's Dayak communities live in traditional longhouses (rumah betang). Radakng longhouses along the Kapuas River can be visited, offering insight into Dayak lifestyle and ceremonies.

5. Betung Kerihun National Park

The national park in the province's north protects pristine rainforests, orchids, and rare animal species. The park borders Malaysia, and trekking requires a local guide.

When to Visit?

May–September is the dry season. For the Cap Go Meh celebration, choose February–March – it's the region's biggest cultural event.

How Long to Stay?

4–6 days recommended:

1–2 days: Pontianak, equator monument, Kapuas River
1–2 days: Singkawang and Chinese-Indonesian culture (during Cap Go Meh)
1–2 days: Dayak longhouses and Betung Kerihun

Summary

West Kalimantan is where the Kapuas River, Chinese-Indonesian culture, and Dayak traditions meet. Singkawang's Cap Go Meh and the equator monument offer a unique experience.

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