Things To Do
in Banjar

Banjar, Indonesia is a charming area located in the southern part of Borneo. Known for its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage, it offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Indonesian life. The region is home to beautiful natural attractions, including rivers and mountains, as well as unique local customs and crafts.

Banjar is also known for its warm hospitality, making it a welcoming destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Banjar's Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Sabilal Muhtadin Mosque, an iconic structure known for its stunning architecture.

afternoon
:

Explore the traditional markets in Banjarbaru, where you can find local handicrafts and taste local snacks.

evening
:

Dine at a local warung, enjoying traditional dishes like Nasi Kuning while soaking in the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a boat ride on the Martapura River, enjoying the serene views and lush surroundings.

afternoon
:

Visit the beautiful Lok Baintan Floating Market, where you can interact with local vendors selling fresh produce and snacks.

evening
:

Wind down your trip with a sunset view at the beach in Tanjung Dewa, followed by dinner at a seafood restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$3-5
Coffee at a café$1-2
🚌Bus fare$0.50
🛏️Hotel per night$20-40
🎁Souvenir from the market$5-10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable costs for food and accommodations.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Indonesian speakers.
  • Public transportation can be less reliable in rural areas.
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Berapa harganya?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Saya tidak mengerti" - I don’t understand

Places to Visit in Banjar

Visit one of these nice places.

Sabilal Muhtadin Mosque

This mosque is a stunning example of Islamic architecture, especially beautiful at sunset.

Martapura River

The river offers picturesque views, especially during the early morning when mist rises off the water.

Lok Baintan Floating Market

Capturing the colorful boats and bustling activity here makes for unique and vibrant photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Banjar

Banjar's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional flavors and fresh ingredients, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Banjar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Kuning

A fragrant yellow rice dish cooked with coconut milk, often served with various side dishes.

Must-Try!

Sate Banjar

Skewered meat grilled to perfection, usually served with a spicy peanut sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pasar Bauntung

A vibrant market where you can find a variety of local snacks and traditional foods.

Martapura Floating Market

A unique floating market where vendors sell their goods directly from boats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Banjar experiences a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity year-round. The average temperature ranges from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). The rainy season occurs from November to March, while the dry season lasts from April to October. Even during the dry months, brief afternoon showers can occur.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

When visiting religious sites, dress conservatively to show respect.

Greetings

A polite greeting is appreciated; a slight bow or nod is customary.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to older individuals is important in local culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Banjar is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. Mosquito repellent is advisable due to the presence of dengue fever in the region.

Tipping in Banjar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but some places may also accept electronic payments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (April - October)

Expect sunny days and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Wet Season (November - March)

Prepare for frequent rain; it's a great time for cultural experiences and indoor activities.

Festive Season (Eid, Christmas)

Cultural celebrations take place during these times, offering a unique perspective on local customs.

Harvest Season

From June to August, you can witness the rice harvest, a spectacular sight in the countryside.

Nightlife Guide

Banjar at Night

Banjar's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, with a focus on local cafes and open-air venues. Most locals enjoy socializing over dinner or at night markets rather than bars. You can find live music at some venues, particularly on weekends, providing a relaxed atmosphere for visitors looking to unwind.

Hiking in Banjar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Meratus

A challenging hike offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and diverse wildlife.

Bukit Tangkiling

A moderate hike that provides scenic views and a chance to see local flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Banjar by plane.

Syamsudin Noor International Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Banjar, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Banjar is moderately walkable, especially in the town centers where shops and eateries are concentrated. Sidewalks are available but may be uneven in some areas. However, for exploring more remote or rural attractions, transportation may be required.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Banjar People

This group has a rich cultural heritage and plays a significant role in the local customs and traditions.

Javanese Migrants

Many Javanese have settled in Banjar, contributing to the area’s cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Badminton

A popular sport among locals, often played in parks and community centers.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played and followed, with many local teams and matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Banjar is generally light, with most travel occurring by motorcycle or small cars. Public transportation options include minibuses and ojek (motorcycle taxis), which are widely used for convenience. However, during peak hours, traffic may slow down in busy areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Banjar.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be modified to exclude meat, so don't hesitate to ask.

Halal Food

Most local eateries serve halal food, but it's good to confirm before ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Banjar include local clinics and hospitals that provide basic medical services. For more serious health issues, the nearest larger hospitals are in Banjarmasin, approximately an hour away. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide