Things To Do
in Putussibau
Putussibau is a riverfront town in West Kalimantan perched along the Kapuas River, serving as a gateway to the surrounding rainforest and remote Dayak communities. The town blends traditional culture with growing ecotourism, offering markets, longhouses, and river excursions that reveal Borneo’s lush biodiversity. It is a gateway to Betung Kerihun National Park and Danau Sentarum’s wetlands, attracting nature lovers and adventurous travelers.
Infrastructure is modest and the pace relaxed, making for an authentic, rustic Indonesian Borneo experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the local traditional market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture. Enjoy a breakfast of traditional Indonesian dishes, engaging with friendly locals. Afterward, take a guided tour to learn about the unique customs and traditions of the Dayak people.
In the afternoon, explore the stunning landscapes around Putussibau by hiking to a nearby viewpoint. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the natural beauty, taking in the lush greenery and river views. Connect with nature as you spot local wildlife along the hiking trail.
As the sun sets, return to the town and enjoy a traditional dinner in a family-run restaurant. Delight in conversations with fellow travelers and locals, exchanging stories about your day’s adventures. Wind down with a night stroll along the riverside, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
After breakfast, embark on an exciting river adventure on the Batang Lupar River, known for its spectacular scenery and biodiversity. Hire a local guide who can provide insights into the river's significance to the Dayak culture. Glide through the calm waters while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
Spend the afternoon canoeing or fishing, trying your luck at catching some local fish. Choose to visit traditional longhouses along the river, learning about the lives of the river communities. Engage in friendly interactions with the locals who may offer you a taste of their homemade delicacies.
As dusk approaches, set up a simple camp along the riverbank for a unique dining experience. Enjoy a freshly prepared meal over an open fire while sharing stories with your companions. End the night by stargazing, marvelling at the stunning night sky devoid of city lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $0.5-2 |
| 🥗Mid-range restaurant meal | $5-12 |
| 🚕Local transportation (1 ride) | $0.5-3 |
| 🛏️Guesthouse/hostel per night | $8-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich riverine scenery and access to pristine forests
- Warm, welcoming local communities with unique Dayak culture
- Remote location with limited infrastructure and slower transport
- Limited nightlife and developed tourist facilities
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Permisi" - Excuse me
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much does it cost?
- "Di mana kamar mandi?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Bisa bahasa Inggris?" - Do you speak English?
- "Saya tidak mengerti" - I don't understand
Places to Visit in Putussibau
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light on a calm river with boats and mist rising over the water.
Vibrant stalls, colors, and candid scenes of daily life perfect for street photography.
Traditional longhouses along the outskirts offer cultural architecture and people-to-people moments (ensure respectful photography permissions).
Lush rainforest canopy and dramatic greens ideal for landscape shots.
Reflective marshlands and wildlife scenes, especially during drier periods when water levels reveal channels and islands.
Food in Putussibau
Putussibau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Patin catfish slow-cooked in tempoyak (fermented durian) with coconut milk, chili, and herbs. Best found at riverfront warungs near the Kapuas.
Must-Try!
A flavorful rice plate served with local accompaniments like shredded fish, sambal, and vegetables; a regional staple in river towns around Kapuas.
Light fish soup featuring fresh river fish, lime, and herbs, typically enjoyed with steamed rice.
Chargrilled chicken marinated in a regional spice blend and served with spicy sambal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main market where you can sample fried fish, steamed veggies, tempe, and seasonal produce.
A lively area for street snacks, grilled items, and fresh fruit after sunset.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in public, especially when visiting religious sites. Seek permission before taking photographs of people or private homes; always use the right hand for giving or receiving items.
A friendly handshake or nod is common. In Dayak communities, be considerate when visiting private longhouses and ask before entering.
Safety
Tipping in Putussibau
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service or guiding. Round up bills or leave small tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff as you see fit.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season (roughly May–September) brings hot days and clearer skies, ideal for river trips and hiking. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan water-based activities in the early morning or late afternoon.
Heavy rainfall (roughly October–April) brings humidity and muddy trails; some river routes may flood or be navigable only by boat. Pack rain gear and plan flexible itineraries.
Putussibau at Night
Hiking in Putussibau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Guided hikes through primary rainforest with potential wildlife sightings and river views.
Seasonal waterway treks and boat routes through marshlands rich in birdlife and biodiversity.
Airports
How to reach Putussibau by plane.
Major gateway to West Kalimantan with domestic connections and occasional international flights; from Pontianak, road or river transfer connects to Putussibau.
Smaller domestic airport serving the Kapuas Hulu area with more limited flight options; convenient for access to northern routes and then onward land transfer to Putussibau.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous groups with deep forest connections, distinctive crafts, and longhouse living traditions.
A mix of local residents and traders contributing to a diverse cultural scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in schools and community fields; informal matches are common on weekends.
A common indoor/outdoor sport in homes and community centers.
Longboat paddling and casual rowing along the Kapuas are part of local river culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Putussibau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes center on fish or meat; look for vegetable dishes like sayur lodeh or tofu options. Request no meat stock and ask for plant-based alternatives when possible.