Dataran Rendah Di Kalimantan: Exploring the Lowlands of Borneo
Introduction
Kalimantan is the Indonesian part of Borneo, the third largest island in the world. This massive island is home to lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and vibrant traditional cultures. However, Borneo is not just about mountains and forests; it also has a vast lowland area known as Dataran Rendah. In this article, we will explore what Dataran Rendah is, its geographical features, climate, flora and fauna, and some of the exciting destinations to visit.
What is Dataran Rendah?
Dataran Rendah is a Malay term that means lowland. In Kalimantan, it refers to the vast flat plain that covers most of the island, except for the mountainous areas. The lowland region of Kalimantan occupies approximately 70% of the island and features a tropical climate, navigable rivers, and lush natural vegetation.
Geographical Features
The Dataran Rendah in Kalimantan is an extensive lowland plain with an average elevation of 50 meters above sea level. It is surrounded by mountains on the borders of Kalimantan, such as the Muller Range in the north, Schwaner Range in the east, and Meratus Mountains in the south.
The lowland region is characterized by wetlands, swamps, and marshes that have formed due to the equatorial location and heavy rainfall. The vast network of rivers, including the Barito, Kapuas, and Mahakam rivers, originate from the mountains surrounding the lowland area and flow towards the coastal areas.
Climate
The lowland region of Kalimantan has a tropical climate that is characterized by high temperatures, high humidity, and an abundance of rainfall. The average temperature ranges from 25°C to 31°C throughout the year, with January being the coldest month and September being the hottest. The rainfall is distributed evenly throughout the year and ranges from 2000 to 4000mm annually, with some areas receiving up to 5000mm.
Flora and Fauna
The lowland region of Kalimantan is rich in biodiversity and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. This area is known for its extensive rainforests that are dominated by Dipterocarpaceae trees and other tropical vegetation. Other plant species found here include Pandanus, Rafflesia arnoldii, and Nepenthes pitcher plants.
The lowland region is also home to numerous animal species, such as orangutans, gibbons, proboscis monkeys, macaques, langurs, deer, wild boar, and various bird species. The rivers and wetlands are home to crocodiles, monitor lizards, and various freshwater fish species.
Destinations to Visit
The Dataran Rendah in Kalimantan offers an exciting range of destinations to visit for travelers. Some of the popular destinations include:
1. Tanjung Puting National Park
Tanjung Puting National Park is a popular destination for tourists who want to see orangutans in their natural habitat. This national park is located on the southern coast of central Kalimantan and covers an area of 4,150 square kilometers. It is home to over 6,000 orangutans, as well as other wildlife species such as proboscis monkeys, macaques, and various bird species. Visitors can take a boat tour through the park’s waterways and observe the animals in their natural habitat.
2. Mahakam River
The Mahakam River is the largest river in East Kalimantan and is an important transportation and trading route. Travelers can take a boat tour along the river and explore the traditional villages along the way. The river is also home to various wildlife species, such as crocodiles, freshwater dolphins, and various bird species.
3. Balikpapan
Balikpapan is a coastal city located on the eastern coast of Kalimantan, known for its beaches and oil industry. The city has a vibrant nightlife, excellent seafood, and is a great destination for surfing. The nearby Manggar and Lamaru beaches offer beautiful scenery and water sports activities.
4. Banjarmasin
Banjarmasin is the capital city of South Kalimantan and is known for its floating markets, traditional houses, and cultural heritage. Here, travelers can visit the Cempaka diamond mining town, see the traditional way of coal mining at Kintap village, and take a boat tour along the Martapura River to visit the floating markets.
5. Derawan Islands
The Derawan Islands are a group of islands located off the eastern coast of Kalimantan, known for their stunning beaches, clear waters, and diverse marine life. The islands are home to various sea creatures, including sea turtles, manta rays, stingrays, and various fish species. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, diving, and explore the islands’ unique culture.
FAQs
Q. What is the Dataran Rendah in Kalimantan?
A. The Dataran Rendah is a vast lowland area that covers 70% of the Indonesian part of Borneo known as Kalimantan.
Q. What are the geographical features of Dataran Rendah?
A. The lowland region of Kalimantan is surrounded by mountains, has an average elevation of 50 meters above sea level, wetlands, swamps, and navigable rivers.
Q. What is the climate in Dataran Rendah?
A. The lowland area has a tropical climate that is characterized by high temperatures, high humidity, and an abundance of rainfall.
Q. What are the flora and fauna found in Dataran Rendah?
A. The lowland area is known for its extensive rainforests dominated by Dipterocarpaceae trees, Orangutans, gibbons, proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, monitor lizards, and various bird species.
Q. What are the popular destinations to visit in Dataran Rendah?
A. Tanjung Puting National Park, Mahakam River, Banjarmasin, Balikpapan, and Derawan Islands are some of the popular destinations to visit in Dataran Rendah.
Q. How do I get to Dataran Rendah?
A. Kalimantan is accessible via several international airports, including Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali. Domestic flights are available to Balikpapan and other cities in Kalimantan. Visitors can also take a ferry from nearby islands or mainland Indonesia.
Kesimpulan
The Dataran Rendah in Kalimantan is a vast and fascinating area to explore, offering visitors unique and exciting destinations to visit. From traditional villages to stunning beaches, this region has something for everyone. Travelers can enjoy the natural beauty of the rainforests, navigate the rivers, spot wildlife, and immerse themselves in the local cultures. A trip to Dataran Rendah is a must for anyone visiting Kalimantan.
