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Private Hidden Kalimantan Day Tour: Local Stories, Myths, Old Palaces & Canoe Ride on Arut River
Discover Authentic Kalimantan Life on a Private Culture and River Day Tour
5.0
|1 Review
DURATION
6 hours
Booking type
Private trip
MEET UP
Free pick-up
Group size
Up to 8 guests
- Experience Highlights
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Availability
- More Info
- Host
- Reviews
Real stories & river life: Kalimantan culture with a truly local touch
Whether you're fascinated by traditional Dayak longhouses, love local markets, or are just into hearing cool legends around a kitchen bench, this cosy, story-filled day is for you. This is the only day trip in Pangkalan Bun that blends authentic cultural immersion with off-the-beaten-track river life—and the standout guide makes all the difference. Your hosts will share personal stories, myths, and even a bit of local politics, giving you a rare, honest glimpse into life in Central Kalimantan.Unlike other quick-stop sightseeing experience, this one slows things down so you can really connect with the culture. It’s not about ticking off landmarks – it’s about hearing stories, chatting with locals, and getting that sense of “Wow, I would’ve never known this if I came on my own.”What to ExpectExplore the richly preserved Istana Mangkubumi with a local host sharing real stories, historical artefacts and mythsVisit the rebuilt Istana Kuning (Yellow Palace), the former home of Kalimantan royaltyStroll through vibrant markets in Pangkalanbun and Kumai, spotting colourful produce and riverside lifeStep into Dayak culture at a traditional longhouse replica, with insights into communal living and forest traditionsEnjoy a river cruise on a small canoe along the peaceful Arut River, with sights of floating houses, villagers, and local fish farmsStop by the cheerful Rainbow Village and take in authentic scenes of daily life far from the usual tourist trailDive into traditional Malay culture with hands-on activities and casual chats with localsGood to KnowThis is a private trip with flexible timing – default start is 11:00am, but you can request an earlier pick-up (as early as 8:00am)The longhouse visit may not have local hosts (owner of the building) present during low seasons, but you still have your guide– cultural performances only happen in high season and may require a small group donation (~minimum IDR 100,000 per five persons)The Yellow Palace is a reconstruction – worth seeing, but the main highlight is really the personal storytelling at another palace (Istana Mangkubumi)The Arut River cruise uses a smaller local boat, making it feel more personal and down-to-earthLocal markets can get busy and rustic – wear comfy shoes and be ready for a bit of walkingThe experience runs rain or shine, and it’s part of the fun – don’t forget your poncho or umbrellaLunch is served at a local restaurant with vegetarian and meat optionsEntrance to cultural and heritage sites is included (except optional donations for performances)
Experience highlights
Royal palace with live stories
River canoe to zero-tourist village
Authentic royal relics with host story
What You’ll be Doing
Day 1 Itinerary Visit Dayak longhouse, yellow palace, traditional house, market, and river cruise
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What’s Included
Private hotel pickup and return transport by private car
Visit to traditional Dayak longhouse (Pasir Panjang)
Tour of Istana Kuning (Sultan’s Yellow Palace)
Guided visit to Istana Mangkubumi with historical storytelling by knowledgeable host
Cruise along the Arut River via a gethek (small canoe)
Visit to Rainbow Village
Lunch at a local restaurant
Stops at Pangkalanbun and Kumai traditional markets
Guidance from local guide , including historical context and local stories
Sightseeing of landmarks and cultural points of interest along the route
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Who you’re supporting
Community Champion
Wildlife Protector
Women-led Wonder
Low Carbon Hero
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Next Available Dates
Prices shown in USD
Select Time for 03 May 2025
Additional Information
Where we'll meet
Start Point
Free pick-up from Pangkalanbun(Pangkalan Bun, Indonesia)
- Start time is flexible. Do let us know which time you prefer
End Point
- End at Start Point(s)
Start & ends
Daily
Guests can choose any start time between
08:00AM - 12:00PMSuitability / Accessibility
- Vegetarian food available
- Halal food available
- Child Friendly (No Minimum Age)
Cancellation & other policies
- CancellationCancel 3 days before activity for a full refund
What to Pack
- Comfortable clothing (No Short Pants)
- Folded fan
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
From
Rp306.000/person
5.0(1)
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Meet your host
Siti Nurul has been welcoming travellers to Indonesia since a long time, offering thoughtfully designed trips that highlight the country’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Originally from East Java, she now calls Kumai home—a quiet town surrounded by rainforest where she raises her family and runs her tours. Siti started out guiding visitors through the jungles of Tanjung Puting and learned from one of the region’s most experienced guides. She's one of the few female guides in the area and proud to run the first women-owned tour company in Kumai. Beyond guiding, she teaches English locally and supports women in tourism. With Siti, you’re not just seeing Indonesia—you’re connecting with it on a deeper, more personal level.
Experience: 11 years
Speaks: Fluent English
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