Things To Do
in Singkawang

Singkawang is a vibrant city located in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, known for its stunning coastal views and rich cultural heritage. It is famous for its annual Singkawang Grand Festival, which showcases the diverse traditions of the local Chinese community. The city also features beautiful beaches, temples, and lush natural landscapes, making it a popular destination for both local and international tourists.

Visitors can experience the unique blend of indigenous and Chinese influences in its culture, cuisine, and festivities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Singkawang
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Singkawang Grand Mall for breakfast and some shopping.

afternoon
:

Head to the Singkawang Beach for sunbathing and swimming, followed by a visit to the nearby Singkawang Temple.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant and take a stroll along the beach while enjoying the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and taste traditional snacks.

afternoon
:

Explore the local art scene by visiting art galleries showcasing local artists and their work.

evening
:

Attend a cultural performance or festival event if available, followed by dinner at a traditional restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a Local Restaurant$2-5
🍺Domestic Beer$1-2
🚌Public Transport Ticket$0.50
🏨Budget Hotel Night$10-20
💧Bottled Water (1.5L)$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and traditions.
  • Beautiful coastal landscapes and beaches.
  • Affordable cost of living and delicious local cuisine.
  • Limited English proficiency among locals.
  • Public transportation can be challenging.
  • Some areas may lack modern amenities.
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Saya tidak mengerti" - I do not understand

Places to Visit in Singkawang

Visit one of these nice places.

Singkawang Beach

Offers breathtaking views of the sunset and is perfect for capturing scenic coastal shots.

Singkawang Temple

A beautifully designed temple that reflects the local culture and architecture, ideal for cultural photography.

Local Markets

Vibrant and colorful, these markets are great for capturing daily life and local interactions.

Culinary Guide

Food in Singkawang

Singkawang offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of indigenous and Chinese flavors.

Singkawang Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Goreng Singkawang

A local twist on the traditional fried rice, often served with seafood and spices.

Must-Try!

Kwetiau Siram

Stir-fried flat rice noodles with a savory sauce, typically topped with fresh vegetables and seafood.

Soto Singkawang

A fragrant soup made with beef or chicken, served with rice and a variety of herbs.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pasar Singkawang

A bustling market where you can find a variety of local foods, snacks, and fresh produce.

Street Food Stalls

Scattered throughout the city, these stalls offer an array of quick bites like satay and fried tofu.

Climate Guide

Weather

Singkawang has a tropical rainforest climate characterized by high humidity and consistent temperatures throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F). Rainfall is significant during the wet season, while the dry season sees more sunshine, making it suitable for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is crucial; greet them first and use polite language.

Dress Modestly

Wear modest clothing, especially when visiting religious sites. Cover shoulders and knees.

Remove Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes before entering someone’s home or certain temples.

Safety Guide

Safety

Singkawang is generally safe for tourists, but it is wise to take common precautions. Avoid displaying valuables openly, be cautious in crowded places, and use trusted transportation services. It's advisable to stay updated on local news and follow any travel advisories.

Tipping in Singkawang

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in larger establishments; always carry some cash for local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (April - October)

Expect sunny weather, making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration.

Rainy Season (November - March)

Frequent rain showers are common; plan for indoor activities and check the weather before heading out.

Chinese New Year (January/February)

Experience vibrant celebrations and cultural events, especially in areas with a large Chinese community.

Festivals (Throughout the Year)

Various local festivals take place throughout the year, offering unique cultural experiences.

Nightlife Guide

Singkawang at Night

Singkawang has a lively nightlife scene with various bars and cafes offering live music and entertainment. Most nightlife spots are concentrated near the beach, where you can enjoy drinks while taking in the ocean breeze. Additionally, local night markets offer a chance to sample street food while mingling with locals and other tourists.

Hiking in Singkawang

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gunung Palung National Park

A bit farther out but offers stunning hiking trails through lush rainforests, with opportunities to see diverse wildlife.

Bukit Tangkiling

A popular spot for hiking close to Singkawang, featuring scenic views and well-marked trails.

Airports

How to reach Singkawang by plane.

Supadio International Airport (PNK)

Located about 130 km from Singkawang, this airport serves domestic and limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Singkawang is moderately walkable, especially in areas close to the beach and city center. Many attractions are within walking distance, but sidewalks may vary in quality. For longer distances, consider using local transportation options.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Chinese-Indonesians

A significant portion of the population is of Chinese descent, contributing to the cultural diversity and culinary richness.

Indigenous Dayak Tribes

Local indigenous tribes maintain their traditions and play a vital role in the cultural landscape of Singkawang.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is highly popular, with many local teams and community matches taking place regularly.

Martial Arts

Traditional martial arts are practiced widely among locals, with various training centers available.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Singkawang is generally light, with most locals using motorbikes for transportation. Public transportation options include minivans and local buses, but schedules may be irregular. The city is best explored on foot or by renting a motorcycle.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Singkawang.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to communicate your dietary needs clearly.

Halal Food

Look for halal-certified restaurants, especially in areas with a significant Muslim population.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Singkawang include several clinics and hospitals, though advanced medical care may require traveling to larger cities like Pontianak. Basic medical services are available, but travelers are advised to have travel insurance and access to emergency numbers.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide