Weekend in Banjarmasin

A narrow riverside park in central Banjarmasin, with a promenade, a few food stalls, and docking points for floating market tours. Basic green space but lively at dawn.

Tip: Come for the sunrise—the ferries to the floating market leave from here. Skip mid-afternoon when it's hot and quiet. There's a small entrance fee of 2,000 IDR (less than 15p) to walk through, some locals call it free entry with donation.

The largest mosque in South Kalimantan, set right on the Martapura River. Its pale blue domes and four minarets stand out, and it can hold up to 15,000 people.

Tip: Go at dawn or dusk for a quiet visit and a cool breeze off the water. Women must cover their heads and wear long sleeves—borrow a sarong and hijab at the entrance for free.

A neighbourhood along the river where locals still hand-dye the traditional sasirangan fabric—tie-dye patterns with a Banjarese flair. You can watch dyeing in action.

Tip: Pop into one of the small workshops (look for drying strips hanging out front). A quarter-metre offcut costs around 10,000 IDR—makes a cheap souvenir or handkerchief.

The burial site of the first Sultan of Banjar (1520–1550), located in the Kampung Kenanga area. It's a simple, respected spot under a shady tree—no grand structure, just a marker.

Tip: Combine with a visit to the nearby floating market—the cemetery is a short walk from Muara Kuin. Dress respectfully (cover shoulders and knees). Locals often leave flowers—don't touch them.

The famous floating market on the Kuin River, where traders in wooden boats sell fresh produce, bananas, coconut sugar, and snacks—women handle most of the trading.

Tip: Arrive by 6:00 AM—the market is winding down by 7:30. Hire a kelotok (motorised canoe) from Kampung Kuin; the going rate is around 50,000 IDR per person and you can haggle.