Things To Do
in Tenggarong

Tenggarong is a small town located in East Kalimantan, Indonesia, known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance as the former capital of the Kutai Kartanegara Sultanate. Surrounded by lush forests and the Mahakam River, it offers a picturesque setting for visitors seeking both nature and culture. The town is also home to the Kutai Museum, which showcases the region's history and indigenous cultures.

With its blend of natural beauty and historical landmarks, Tenggarong is an intriguing destination for travelers exploring Indonesia.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Kutai Museum to learn about the local history and culture of the Kutai Sultanate.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the nearby Tenggarong Palace, appreciating its architecture and artifacts.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Indonesian dinner at a local restaurant and take a leisurely walk along the Mahakam River, soaking in the sunset views.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Embark on a morning boat tour along the Mahakam River, where you can spot wildlife and enjoy the serene environment.

afternoon
:

Visit the local markets to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for unique handicrafts.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a visit to a local cafe for coffee and dessert, followed by exploring the town's nightlife with music and entertainment.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$3-7
🚌Local bus fare$0.50
🏨Budget hotel per night$15-30
🛍️Souvenir items$1-5
Coffee at a cafe$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical experiences
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities
  • Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Public transport can be infrequent
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Indonesian speakers
  • "Selamat datang" - Welcome
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Apa kabar?" - How are you?
  • "Maaf" - Sorry
  • "Sampai jumpa" - See you later

Places to Visit in Tenggarong

Visit one of these nice places.

Mahakam River

Capture stunning views of the river, especially during sunrise or sunset, with reflections of the surrounding landscape.

Tenggarong Palace

The majestic architecture of the palace provides a perfect backdrop for historical photographs.

Local Markets

The vibrant colors and bustling activity at local markets offer great opportunities for candid street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tenggarong

Tenggarong offers a delightful culinary experience with a diversity of flavors influenced by local traditions and ingredients.

Tenggarong Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Soto Banjar

A flavorful soup made with chicken, spices, and served with rice, often garnished with boiled eggs and fried shallots.

Must-Try!

Ikan Bakar

Grilled fish, typically marinated with local spices, served with sambal and rice.

Nasi Kuning

Yellow rice cooked with turmeric, served with various side dishes, often enjoyed during celebrations.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tenggarong Traditional Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local street food delights.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls offering snacks like fried tofu, tempeh, and grilled corn, perfect for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tenggarong has a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by high humidity and temperatures averaging between 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) throughout the year. The rainy season brings heavy showers, particularly from November to March, while April to October features drier weather. Visitors should be prepared for sudden rain showers, especially in the transition months, and should consider light, breathable clothing to remain comfortable in the heat.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites; covering shoulders and knees is advisable.

Respect Local Customs

Participate respectfully in local traditions and ceremonies, especially during cultural festivities.

Greetings

Use polite greetings; a smile and a slight bow of the head are common signs of respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tenggarong is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and safeguarding personal belongings. Be cautious when using ATMs, especially in isolated areas. Travelers should also be aware of potential flooding during the rainy season and plan accordingly.

Tipping in Tenggarong

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

While tipping is not mandatory, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some restaurants accept credit cards; however, it's best to carry cash for local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Rainy Season (November to March)

Expect heavy rainfall and potential flooding; bring waterproof clothing and plan indoor activities.

Dry Season (April to October)

This is the best time to visit, with pleasant weather and plenty of outdoor activities available.

Festive Season (Idul Fitri and other local festivals)

Experience vibrant cultural celebrations, but be aware of busy travel periods and limited availability of accommodations.

Transition Periods

During the transition from dry to rainy seasons, expect occasional showers; it's a good time for hiking and nature walks.

Nightlife Guide

Tenggarong at Night

Tenggarong's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, but there are several local cafes and bars that offer live music and entertainment, especially on weekends. The atmosphere is friendly, with a focus on socializing and enjoying local drinks. You can also find night markets where street food and local snacks can be enjoyed under the stars.

Hiking in Tenggarong

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bukit Soeharto Nature Park

Located about 20 km from Tenggarong, this park offers multiple trails through lush forests and diverse wildlife, suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.

Mount Mesah

A challenging hike that rewards with panoramic views at the summit; best suited for experienced hikers looking for an adventurous trek.

Airports

How to reach Tenggarong by plane.

Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman International Airport (BPN)

Located about 30 km from Tenggarong, this airport serves as the main gateway for travelers to East Kalimantan, offering domestic flights and limited international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tenggarong is moderately walkable, with compact areas around the town center where most attractions, markets, and restaurants are located. However, some areas may require longer walks or short taxi rides. Sidewalks are available in many parts, but it’s advisable to stay alert for traffic and pedestrians.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Kutai People

The Kutai people are the original inhabitants of the region, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditional practices.

Javanese Migrants

A significant number of Javanese have migrated to East Kalimantan for work, contributing to the local economy and cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Tenggarong, with local teams and community matches frequently taking place.

Badminton

Badminton is widely played and enjoyed, with many local clubs and tournaments organized throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tenggarong is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town by foot or by motorcycle. Public transportation includes local buses and ojek (motorcycle taxis), which are convenient for getting around. However, during peak hours, traffic can become congested, especially near market areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tenggarong.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian-friendly; ask for tofu or tempeh substitutes.

Halal Food

Most restaurants serve halal food, but it's advisable to confirm with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Tenggarong includes several clinics and a regional hospital, but the quality may vary. For serious medical issues, it is recommended to travel to larger cities like Samarinda or Balikpapan for better facilities. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide