Sintang is a city located 315 km from Pontianak, the capital of West Kalimantan province, on the island of Borneo. It is the administrative seat of the Kabupaten (district) of the same name. Like many other destinations in the Indonesian part of Borneo, Sintang remains largely unknown to foreign travelers. Yet this city of 59,410 inhabitants and its surroundings have much to captivate curious travelers and adventurers. Here you'll find compelling attractions such as Mount Kelam, an imposing monolith, and Nokan Lonanyan waterfall, one of Indonesia's most impressive cascades.

History

Sintang is established at the confluence of the Kapuas River and the Melawi River. This region welcomed its first human settlements between 45,000 and 39,000 years before Christ.

Sintang is one of the largest Kabupaten in West Kalimantan province. It was once the seat of the Hindu kingdom of Sintang, a regional power on the island of Borneo. This kingdom later transformed into a sultanate before falling under Dutch rule in 1776.

The Sintang region became a Japanese colony in 1941 and was liberated in 1945.

What to See in Sintang Kabupaten?

Mount Kelam (Bukit Kelam)

Mount Kelam is one of the most sought-after attractions in Sintang Kabupaten. It lies approximately 30 minutes' drive from the city.

Rising over 1,000 meters, Mount Kelam ranks among the world's great monoliths. Climbers may take up to 5 hours to reach its summit. Stairs have been installed on the western side to ease the ascent.

Once at the top, adventurers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the region's picturesque landscape, with fields, massive boulders, and verdant hills. That's not all: exceptional flora, including endemic species such as Nepenthes clipeata, awaits visitors at the peak of this majestic formation.

Taman Wisata Alam Baning

An extraordinary tourist destination, Taman Wisata Alam Baning is a forest nestled in the heart of a city—Sintang itself. This 2.4-square-kilometer park is occupied by pristine tropical forest, exotic plants, and abundant bird and animal life.

Taman Wisata Alam Baning is crisscrossed by hiking trails. It is a haven of peace and tranquility, ideal for relaxation. Visitors can camp here. The park is accessible via boat excursions on the Kapuas River.

Rumah Betang Ensaid Panjang

Rumah Betang Ensaid Panjang is a traditional Dayak house. This indigenous people of Borneo are renowned for their distinctive longhouses—elevated structures built on stilts that accommodate many families. They are constructed from wood and bamboo, and topped with thatch or palm leaves.

The architecture of these longhouses is designed to adapt to Borneo's tropical climate and environmental conditions. The stilts protect against flooding and wild animals, while natural materials ensure excellent ventilation.

Today, longhouses are becoming increasingly rare due to modernization and urbanization, yet they remain an important symbol of Dayak cultural identity and continue to be used in certain rural communities.

Rumah Betang Ensaid Panjang is located 45 km from the city of Sintang. Local communities engage in weaving activities using natural materials. You can purchase the Dayak Ikat, the iconic textile of the Dayak people.

Al Mukarramah Palace and Sultan Nata Jami Mosque

Al Mukarramah Palace and Sultan Nata Jami Mosque are located in the city of Sintang. Al Mukarramah Palace, the residence of Sintang's sultanate, features a yellow-painted facade and houses numerous historical artifacts, including a Garuda, a symbol that preceded Indonesia's national emblem.

Sultan Nata Jami Mosque, situated beside the palace, stands as a testament to Sintang's Islamic heritage. Still standing and well-preserved, it continues to serve as a place of worship for the local community.

Kapuas Raya Museum

Kapuas Raya Museum is also nestled in the city of Sintang, on Jalan Sintang–Putussibau. It features various exhibitions showcasing the region's history and diverse ethnicities: the Dayak, Malays, and Chinese.

Nokan Lonanyan Waterfall

At 180 meters high, Nokan Lonanyan waterfall is one of Indonesia's grandest and highest cascades. Hidden in the heart of dense forest, it offers a serene and remote atmosphere. Nokan Lonanyan is distinguished by its two spectacular waterfalls, which often create magnificent rainbows. This natural wonder is frequently compared to Niagara Falls.

Practical Information

When to Visit?

The best time to explore Sintang and its surroundings is the dry season, from May to September. During this period, roads and hiking trails are more accessible, and the climate is generally more pleasant for outdoor activities. However, if you wish to see Nokan Lonanyan waterfall at its most spectacular, with impressive cascades and rainbows, the rainy season from November to March may be ideal. Prepare yourself for humid conditions and slippery trails.

Sintang is accessible by air from Pontianak. You can also reach it by bus. The overland distance between these two cities is 315 km, and the journey takes approximately 7 hours.