Pontianak is a city in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, situated at the confluence of two rivers, the Kapuas and the Landak. It is the capital of the province of West Kalimantan and the largest city of the island, with a population of over 850,000 people.
Pontianak is an interesting city to visit, offering travelers a unique blend of cultures, with Chinese, Malay, and Dayak influences. The city is full of culture and history, with many attractions, such as the Palace of Pontianak, the Museum of West Kalimantan, and the Old Town of Pontianak, where visitors can explore the old Chinese shophouses and the colonial-era buildings.
Pontianak is also known for its delicious food, such as the local delicacy of sago larang, a sweet porridge made from sago flour and coconut milk. There are many other dishes to try, such as ayam bakar (grilled chicken) and nasi lemak (coconut rice).
Pontianak is also a great base to explore the rest of West Kalimantan, from the lush rainforest of the Rimbang Baling Nature Reserve, to the mangrove forests of the Tambang Tiram Nature Reserve. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, Pontianak offers some great trekking and rafting opportunities in and around the city.
Whether you are looking for a cultural experience, delicious food, or an adventurous getaway, Pontianak is a great destination to visit.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Kampung Air: This is the main area of Pontianak, located in the heart of the city. It is known for its traditional architecture and markets, as well as its many restaurants.
2. Tanjung Puak: This is a popular beach area located on the western coast of Pontianak. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the sunset, as well as the variety of seafood restaurants.
3. Kebun Binatang: This area is home to the Pontianak Zoo, which is home to a variety of animals such as lions, tigers, and orangutans. It is also a great place to get a glimpse of local wildlife.
4. Pontianak City Park: This is a large park located in the center of the city. It has a large lake, playgrounds, and many different paths, making it a great place to take a leisurely stroll.
5. Jalan Jenderal Sudirman: This is a busy shopping street in the center of Pontianak. It is filled with malls, restaurants, and other attractions. It is a great place to find souvenirs and explore the city.
1. Fort de Kock: Located in the heart of Pontianak, this 19th-century Dutch fort was built to guard the city against the threat of piracy. The fort is now a popular tourist attraction, with its beautiful gardens, classic architecture, and stunning views of the Kapuas River.
2. Equator Monument: This monument marks the exact location of the equator, and is a must-see for any traveler. The monument features a large sundial and a tall tower, from which you can enjoy the beautiful view of the surrounding area.
3. Taman Sari Waterpark: This massive waterpark features a variety of exciting rides and attractions, including a wave pool, lazy river, and multiple slides. It's a great place to bring the whole family to have a day of fun and relaxation.
4. Bukit Melawai: This hilltop park is a perfect spot for a picnic or a romantic evening. The park offers stunning views of the city, as well as a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy.
5. Kapuas Bridge: This iconic suspension bridge spans the Kapuas River, connecting Pontianak to other parts of Indonesia. The bridge is a popular spot for sightseeing and taking pictures, and it's also a great place to watch the sunset.
1. Soto Pontianak: A traditional Indonesian soup made with beef, coconut milk, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal.
2. Laksa Pontianak: A soup made with a spicy coconut milk broth, rice noodles, and various meats and vegetables.
3. Mie Jawa: A popular noodle dish made with egg noodles, vegetables, and a savory soy sauce.
4. Ayam Panggang: Grilled chicken served with a sweet and spicy sambal sauce.
5. Ikan Asam Pedas: A spicy fish soup made with a sour tamarind broth, lemongrass, chilli peppers, and various spices.