Pontianak, the capital city of West Kalimantan in Indonesia, is known as the city of Equator.
The city is situated on the equator line, making it a unique destination that is worth exploring.
If you’re planning a trip to Indonesia, make sure to include Pontianak in your itinerary.
Pontianak, the capital city of West Kalimantan, is located on the equator and has an elevation that ranges from 0.1 to 1.5 meters above sea level.
The city is divided into three parts by the Kapuas Besar and its major tributaries, the Kapuas Kecil and Landak rivers.
One of the best ways to explore the city is by taking a boat ride along the Kapuas River, the longest river in Indonesia.
Visitors can see the daily activities of the locals who live along the riverbanks and enjoy the scenic views of the city from a different perspective.
Things Todo In Pontianak City, West Kalimantan in Indonesia
Here are some things that you can do and see in Pontianak:
Visit the Equator Monument
This monument is an important landmark that marks the zero point of the equator, which is a line that divides the earth into two hemispheres.
The monument is around 4 kilometers from the city center and can be easily reached by car or motorcycle.
It is a great place to take photos with one foot in the northern hemisphere and the other in the southern hemisphere.
It is also an educational and informative spot as there are various exhibits and information panels around the monument that explain the significance of the equator line.
Visitors can also take part in various activities such as egg balancing, which is a unique phenomenon that occurs on the equator line.
Due to the earth’s rotation and gravity, it is easier to balance an egg on its end on the equator line than anywhere else in the world.
It is a fun activity to try with friends and family while also learning about the science behind it.
Besides the Equator Monument, there are many other attractions in Pontianak, West Kalimantan in Indonesia that are worth exploring.
The city has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can learn about the Dayak culture by visiting the Dayak Cultural Village.
The city also has a vibrant culinary scene with delicious local delicacies.
Overall, visiting the Equator Monument in Pontianak is a unique experience that is both fun and educational.
It is a great way to learn about the earth’s geography while also taking memorable photos with friends and family.
Explore the Kapuas River
The Kapuas River is the longest river in Indonesia, stretching over 1,100+ kilometers and providing the main transportation route in Pontianak.
You can take a leisurely boat ride to explore the river and see the daily activities of the locals who live along the riverbanks.
During your boat ride, you will see fishermen casting their nets, locals bathing in the river, and children playing on the riverbanks.
You can also enjoy the beautiful scenery of the lush green forests and hills that surround the river.
Along the way, you can stop at some of the small villages to interact with the friendly locals and learn about their way of life.
One of the highlights of the Kapuas River is the vibrant floating market, which takes place every morning.
Local vendors sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and other goods from their boats, making it a colorful and lively scene.
You can even try some of the local delicacies, such as the freshwater fish and seafood.
If you are interested in learning more about the Kapuas River and its surrounding areas, you can join a guided tour that will take you to some of the popular attractions along the river.
This way, you can learn about the history and culture of the area from a knowledgeable local guide.
Overall, exploring the Kapuas River is a must-do activity when you visit Pontianak, West Kalimantan in Indonesia.
It’s a unique way to experience the local culture and see the natural beauty of the area.
Visit the Alun-Alun Kapuas Park
This park is located in the city center, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists.
The park is known for its beautiful landscape, which includes a wide range of trees, flowers, and green grass.
You can spend a relaxing afternoon in the park, enjoying the fresh air and peaceful atmosphere.
Apart from its natural beauty, Alun-Alun Kapuas Park also offers various activities for visitors.
You can take a leisurely walk or jog around the park’s jogging track, which is well-maintained and surrounded by lush greenery. You can also rent a bicycle and explore the park on wheels.
There are several food stalls located in the park, offering a variety of local and international cuisines.
You can savor the delicious food while enjoying the park’s serene environment.
Additionally, there are several gazebos located in the park, where you can relax and enjoy the stunning views of the Kapuas River.
If you are visiting Pontianak, West Kalimantan in Indonesia during the weekends, you can witness the park come alive with cultural performances and activities.
Local artists and performers showcase their talents on the park’s stage, while traditional games and sports activities take place on the park’s lawn.
Overall, a visit to Alun-Alun Kapuas Park is a perfect way to spend a peaceful and relaxing day in Pontianak.
It is a great place to unwind and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Try the Local Cuisine
f you’re a food lover, then Pontianak is a city you cannot miss. Here are some of the must-try local dishes that will surely tantalize your taste buds.
- Soto Banjar: This is a traditional soup dish made with chicken or beef broth, vermicelli noodles, vegetables, and herbs. The unique blend of spices gives it a delicious flavor that you won’t find anywhere else.
- Ketupat Kandangan: This dish is made from rice cake and served with a variety of side dishes such as chicken curry, fried chicken, and spicy chili sauce. It’s a popular dish during the Eid al-Fitr festival and other celebrations.
- Chai Kue: A popular snack made from rice flour and stuffed with vegetables, meat, and peanut sauce.
- Sotong Pangkong: A grilled squid dish marinated with a spicy sauce and served with rice cakes.
- Lek Tau Suan: A sweet dessert soup made from mung beans, pandan leaves, and coconut milk.
- Pengkang: A traditional dish made from minced meat and spices wrapped in banana leaves and grilled over a charcoal fire.
- Lempok Durian: A sweet and sticky snack made from durian fruit and sticky rice.
- Kwe Cap: A savory soup made with pork meatballs and served with crispy fried wontons.
- Bubur Ikan: A hearty fish porridge made with a variety of fresh fish, vegetables, and spices.
- Kue Kantong Semar: A sweet dumpling made from rice flour and stuffed with grated coconut and palm sugar.
- Kue Bulan / Yue Ping: A sweet pastry filled with sweet bean paste and shaped like a full moon.
In Pontianak, West Kalimantan in Indonesia, there are plenty of local food stalls, restaurants, and markets where you can sample these delicious dishes.
Don’t be afraid to try something new and immerse yourself in the local food culture.
Explore the Traditional Markets
In Pontianak, you’ll find a variety of traditional markets that offer a glimpse into the city’s culture and way of life.
One of the most popular markets in Pontianak is Pasar Flamboyan.
Located in the heart of the city, this market is a bustling hub of activity where you can find everything from fresh produce to clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs.
If you’re looking for unique gifts to bring back home, Pasar Flamboyan is the perfect place to shop.
Another popular market in Pontianak, West Kalimantan in Indonesia is Pasar Tengah.
Here, you’ll find vendors selling everything from durian and rambutan to mangosteen and jackfruit.
If you’re looking for a more authentic experience, be sure to visit some of the smaller, less touristy markets in Pontianak.
These markets offer a glimpse into the daily lives of locals and are a great place to sample some of the city’s street food.
Whether you’re looking for fresh produce, unique souvenirs, or just want to immerse yourself in the local culture, exploring the traditional markets of Pontianak is an experience not to be missed.
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Overall, a visit to Pontianak is an exciting experience that you shouldn’t miss.
From exploring the equator line to trying the local cuisine, there is so much to discover in this wonderful city.
Book your trip to Pontianak today and embark on a journey to Indonesia’s zero equator point.
How To Visit Pontianak West Kalimantan, Indonesia
Pontianak, the capital city of West Kalimantan, Indonesia, is an interesting destination for travelers to visit.
It is located right on the Equator line, making it a unique location to explore.
Visiting Pontianak From Nearest Big City By Air
If you’re planning to visit Pontianak, here’s a guide on how to get there from various destinations:
From Jakarta:
The most common way to get to Pontianak from Jakarta is by taking a flight.
There are several airlines that fly directly from Jakarta to Pontianak, such as Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and Batik Air.
The flight takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the airline and the type of aircraft used.
From Bali:
If you’re coming from Bali, the easiest way to get to Pontianak, West Kalimantan in Indonesia is also by taking a flight.
There are direct flights from Denpasar (Bali’s capital city) to Pontianak served by airlines such as Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and Citilink. The flight takes around 2-3 hours.
From Singapore:
For travelers coming from Singapore, you can fly directly to Pontianak from Changi Airport.
Airlines such as Scoot and Garuda Indonesia offer flights to Pontianak.
The flight duration is around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
From Kuala Lumpur:
There are no direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Pontianak, so you’ll have to make a stopover in Jakarta or other Indonesian cities.
Some airlines that offer flights from Kuala Lumpur to Pontianak are AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines.
The total travel time is around 4-6 hours, depending on the duration of the layover.
From other Indonesian cities:
If you’re coming from other Indonesian cities such as Surabaya or Medan, you can take a direct flight to Pontianak, West Kalimantan in Indonesia.
Airlines such as Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and Citilink offer flights to Pontianak from major Indonesian cities.
Once you arrive at Supadio International Airport in Pontianak, you can easily get around the city by taxi or ride-hailing apps such as Gojek or Grab.
The city is not too big, so it’s easy to explore and discover its unique charms.
Don’t forget to visit the Equator Monument and the Kapuas River, which are must-visit attractions in Pontianak.
Visiting Pontianak From Brunei, Malaysian Sarawak and Sabah
If you’re planning to visit Pontianak from Brunei, Malaysian Sarawak or Sabah, there are several transportation options you can consider.
Brunei
From Brunei, you can take a direct flight to Supadio International Airport in Pontianak.
Currently, there are several airlines that operate flights from Brunei to Pontianak, such as Royal Brunei Airlines, AirAsia, and Citilink.
The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Upon arrival at the airport, you can take a taxi or ride-hailing service to reach the city center.
If you’re coming from Malaysian Sarawak, you can take a bus from Kuching to Pontianak, West Kalimantan in Indonesia.
There are several bus companies that operate this route, such as Borneo Express and Biaramas.
The journey takes around 6 to 8 hours, depending on the traffic and immigration clearance.
The bus will take you to the border checkpoint at Tebedu-Entikong, where you will need to go through immigration and customs before continuing the journey to Pontianak.
Upon arrival at the Pontianak bus terminal, you can take a taxi or public transportation to reach your destination.
The Pontianak-Entikong-Kuching-Brunei Darussalam route is serviced by comfortable 30-seater DAMRI buses on a regular basis.
t takes around 8 hours to travel from Pontianak to Kuching, with two rest stops along the way. For those continuing on to Brunei, the journey takes one full day and night.
Sabah
From Sabah, you can take a flight from Kota Kinabalu to Pontianak.
There are several airlines that operate flights from Kota Kinabalu to Pontianak, such as AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, and Lion Air.
The flight takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes. Upon arrival at the airport, you can take a taxi or ride-hailing service to reach the city center.
Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Kota Kinabalu to Pontianak.
However, this option requires more time and effort as you will need to take multiple buses and cross the border checkpoint at Tebedu-Entikong.
The journey can take up to 2 days, depending on the bus schedule and immigration clearance.
It is recommended to book the bus tickets in advance and bring enough cash for the immigration fees and transportation costs.
Overall, there are several transportation options to reach Pontianak, West Kalimantan in Indonesia from Brunei, Malaysian Sarawak, and Sabah.
Whether you prefer a direct flight or a bus journey, make sure to plan your trip ahead and check the transportation schedules and fares.
Pontianak City, West Kalimantan, Indonesia Timezone
In 1963, the city of Pontianak was included in the Central Indonesian Time (WITA) zone (GMT+8) by Presidential Decree No. 243.
However, on 1 January 1988, by Presidential Decree No. 41, West Kalimantan (together with Central Kalimantan) moved back one hour from the Central Indonesian Time (WITA) zone to the Western Indonesian Time (WIB) zone.
This change means that Pontianak is now in the same time zone as Jakarta and other cities in western Indonesia.
Interestingly, in 1988, the city of Pontianak celebrated New Year’s Eve twice: at 00:00 on GMT+8 and then again at 00:00 on GMT+7 due to the time zone change.
So, if you are traveling to Pontianak, be sure to adjust your watch accordingly to avoid any confusion.
Pontianak City, West Kalimantan, Indonesia Climate
| Climate data for Pontianak, West Kalimantan in Indonesia | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
| Average high °C (°F) | 30.8 (87.4) |
31.8 (89.2) |
31.9 (89.4) |
32.0 (89.6) |
32.4 (90.3) |
32.3 (90.1) |
31.9 (89.4) |
32.2 (90.0) |
32.2 (90.0) |
31.8 (89.2) |
31.1 (88.0) |
30.8 (87.4) |
31.8 (89.2) |
| Daily mean °C (°F) | 26.9 (80.4) |
27.9 (82.2) |
27.7 (81.9) |
27.8 (82.0) |
28.1 (82.6) |
28.0 (82.4) |
27.5 (81.5) |
27.6 (81.7) |
27.9 (82.2) |
27.7 (81.9) |
27.3 (81.1) |
27.2 (81.0) |
27.6 (81.7) |
| Average low °C (°F) | 23.1 (73.6) |
24.0 (75.2) |
23.5 (74.3) |
23.6 (74.5) |
23.8 (74.8) |
23.7 (74.7) |
23.1 (73.6) |
23.1 (73.6) |
23.6 (74.5) |
23.6 (74.5) |
23.5 (74.3) |
23.6 (74.5) |
23.5 (74.3) |
| Average rainfall mm (inches) | 266 (10.5) |
183 (7.2) |
205 (8.1) |
264 (10.4) |
230 (9.1) |
173 (6.8) |
148 (5.8) |
148 (5.8) |
194 (7.6) |
316 (12.4) |
393 (15.5) |
376 (14.8) |
2,896 (114) |
| Average rainy days | 18 | 15 | 17 | 20 | 18 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 16 | 20 | 21 | 20 | 205 |
| Average relative humidity (%) | 88 | 87 | 87 | 89 | 87 | 85 | 83 | 81 | 86 | 89 | 91 | 89 | 87 |
| Mean daily sunshine hours | 8.1 | 8.4 | 8.6 | 8.1 | 8.3 | 8.7 | 9.1 | 9.2 | 8.7 | 8.1 | 7.7 | 7.8 | 8.4 |
| Source: Climate-Data.org | |||||||||||||
Pontianak is located in the tropical region and features a tropical rainforest climate under the Köppen climate classification (Af).
The city experiences heavy rainfall year-round with no distinct seasons. On average,
Pontianak receives 2,896 mm (114.0 in) of precipitation annually. The month of July and August receive comparatively lower rainfall with average monthly precipitation falling below 150 mm (5+7⁄8 in).
The temperature in Pontianak remains consistent throughout the year, with average high temperatures of 31 °C (88 °F) and average low temperatures of 23 °C (73 °F).
The hot and humid weather in Pontianak can make exploring the city a bit challenging, but it’s worth the experience to explore its unique attractions.
Be sure to pack comfortable clothing and stay hydrated during your visit to Pontianak, West Kalimantan in Indonesia.