About Sintang

Sintang – Bukit Kelam and the City of Two Rivers

Sintang Regency lies in the interior of West Kalimantan province, at the confluence of the Kapuas and Melawi rivers. Its capital is Sintang city. The region is dominated by Bukit Kelam – one of Southeast Asia’s largest monolithic rocks. The Kapuas River is Indonesia’s longest river (1,143 km), and Sintang is an important hub on its middle stretch. Traditional ways of life of Dayak and Malay communities have been preserved.

Attractions and Activities

Bukit Kelam (907 metres) is an imposing granite monolith towering above the city, climbable. The confluence of the Kapuas and Melawi rivers is a spectacular natural sight. Dayak longhouse (betang) visits in the hinterland. Rainforest treks in pristine Bornean jungle. The Sintang Royal Palace (Keraton Sintang) is a historical memorial site.

Culture and Cuisine

Dayak (mainly Desa, Ketungau) and Malay communities’ culture is defining. Dayak chanting and dance ceremonies. Cuisine is river-based: patin bakar (grilled pangasius), mie Sintang (local noodles), and tropical fruits like durian and cempedak.

Public Safety

Sintang is safe. Medical care: hospital in Sintang city. Pontianak (approx. 7–8 hours overland, or 1 hour by air) has more advanced facilities.

Practical Information

Flights to Sintang Susilo Airport from Pontianak (approx. 1 hour). Overland from Pontianak approx. 7–8 hours. Best time May to September. Accommodation: simple hotels and guesthouses.

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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