Kabupaten di Kalimantan Tengah: Exploring Central Kalimantan
Kalimantan Tengah (Central Kalimantan) is the third largest province in Indonesia, spanned across 153,564.5 km² of land. The province is known for its serene natural beauty, vast tropical forests, and rich culture. Its administrative division consists of 13 kabupaten (regencies) and 1 kota (city), each with its own unique features and attractions. In this article, we will delve into one of the kabupaten in Central Kalimantan, and that is Kabupaten di Kalimantan Tengah.
Kabupaten Di Kalimantan Tengah: An Overview
Kabupaten di Kalimantan Tengah (Katingan Regency) is located in the northern part of Central Kalimantan, bordered by the provinces of East Kalimantan and North Kalimantan. The regency is home to various ethnic groups, with Dayak as the majority, followed by Javanese, Madurese, and Banjar. The local language used in Katingan is Dayak Ngaju.
The regency is divided into 7 kecamatan (districts) and 110 desa (villages). Its capital city is Kasongan, which is located around 110 km from the provincial capital, Palangka Raya. The regency is accessible by land and river transportation, with the Trans-Kalimantan Highway passing through it.
Kabupaten Di Kalimantan Tengah: Attractions and Activities
Katingan Regency offers various attractions and activities for visitors, ranging from cultural, nature, to adventure tourism. Here are some of the things you can do and see in Katingan:
1. Visit Dayak traditional longhouses
The Dayak tribe has a long-standing tradition of building communal longhouses, which serve as a symbol of their unity and identity. In Katingan, there are several traditional longhouses that you can visit, such as the Uma Lian and Uma Belalan longhouses in Tewang Rangkah. You can also witness the Dayak Ngaju traditional ceremonies and dances, such as the gawai dayak (harvest festival), ngajat (warrior dance), and sape music performance.
2. Explore the tropical rainforest
Katingan is blessed with an abundant tropical rainforest, which is home to various flora and fauna. You can explore the forest by joining a guided trekking tour, where you can observe the endemic wildlife species, such as orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and hornbills. There are also several waterfalls and hot springs that you can visit, such as the Telaga Pulang and Batu Kasah Waterfalls, and the Kahetang and Telaga Ucimun Hot Springs.
3. Experience Dayak traditional farming
In Katingan, you can experience the Dayak traditional farming system, which is based on the concept of harmonious living with the forest. You can learn how the Dayak people cultivate the indigenous rice varieties, such as the dandang gendis and beras gogo, using the swidden cultivation method. You can also witness the traditional fishing techniques, such as the pelian and sabom fishing, which are based on the preservation of the river ecosystem.
4. Rafting and kayaking adventure
The Katingan River offers an excellent opportunity for rafting and kayaking adventure. You can choose between the gentle rapids for beginners or the challenging ones for experts. The river also offers a beautiful scenery of the tropical rainforest and the nearby villages.
5. Visit the Kasongan-Sampit Nature Reserve
The Kasongan-Sampit Nature Reserve is a protected area that spans across Katingan and Sampit Regencies. The reserve is home to various endangered wildlife species, such as orangutans, gibbons, sun bears, and clouded leopards. You can visit the reserve and participate in the eco-tourism activities, such as the wildlife observation, forest trekking, and river cruises.
Kabupaten Di Kalimantan Tengah: Local Cuisine and Souvenirs
Katingan Regency offers various local cuisine and souvenirs that you can try and buy. Here are some of them:
1. Rendang Batang Garing
Rendang Batang Garing is a traditional Dayak Ngaju dish made of beef cooked with a blend of spices and coconut milk until it becomes tender and flavorful. The dish is usually served with steamed rice and vegetables.
2. Amparan Tatak
Amparan Tatak is a traditional rice cracker made of glutinous rice that is processed using a traditional method. The rice crackers are often flavored with peanuts, sweeteners, and spices, and are perfect for snacks.
3. Dayak Traditional Crafts
The Dayak Ngaju tribe is known for its traditional crafts, such as the woven handicrafts, wood carvings, and bamboo crafts. You can buy these crafts as souvenirs or gifts for your loved ones.
Kabupaten Di Kalimantan Tengah: FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Kabupaten Di Kalimantan Tengah?
The best time to visit Katingan Regency is during the dry season, which falls from May to September. During this time, the weather is sunny and dry, and the roads and rivers are more accessible.
2. How can I get to Katingan Regency?
You can get to Katingan Regency by land and river transportation. If you come from Palangka Raya, you can take a public bus or a rented car to Kasongan, which is the capital city of Katingan. If you come from East Kalimantan, you can take a bus or a car to Tumbang Samba, and then switch to a riverboat to Kasongan.
3. Is Katingan Regency safe for tourists?
Katingan Regency is generally safe for tourists, but it is always advisable to take precautions and follow the local customs and regulations. Avoid going out alone at night, especially in remote areas, and respect the local culture and tradition.
4. What are the popular attractions in Katingan Regency?
The popular attractions in Katingan Regency include the Dayak traditional longhouses, the tropical rainforest, the Dayak traditional farming, the rafting and kayaking adventure, and the Kasongan-Sampit Nature Reserve.
5. What are the local cuisines and souvenirs in Katingan Regency?
The local cuisines in Katingan Regency include Rendang Batang Garing, Amparan Tatak, and various seafood dishes. The local souvenirs include the Dayak traditional crafts, such as the woven handicrafts, wood carvings, and bamboo crafts.
Conclusion
Kabupaten di Kalimantan Tengah (Katingan Regency) is a hidden gem in Central Kalimantan that offers a unique blend of cultural, nature, and adventure tourism. Its serene natural beauty, traditional longhouses, and tropical rainforest are some of the reasons why you should visit this regency. So, pack your bags and immerse yourself in the beauty and richness of Katingan Regency.
