Taman Siring Sungai Martapura Maskot Bakantan, Banjarmasin

Updated November 7, 2025

Description

Taman Siring Sungai Martapura Maskot Bekantan in Banjarmasin is one of those places that manages to be both calming and lively at the same time. Sitting right along the Martapura River, this city park has become the heart of local life, where people come to breathe, chat, snack, and just watch the world drift by on the water. The park is famous for its giant statue of the bekantan — a long-nosed proboscis monkey that’s native to Borneo and beloved as the city’s official mascot. And honestly, it’s hard not to smile when you see it. There’s something about that quirky face and proud stance that makes you feel like you’ve arrived somewhere special.

Visitors often describe the park as a mix of natural beauty and local culture. It’s not just a green space; it’s a slice of Banjarmasin’s identity. You’ll find families strolling in the late afternoon, couples taking selfies near the river, and vendors selling everything from grilled corn to iced tea. The air smells faintly of the river — sometimes fresh, sometimes earthy — and you can hear the hum of boats gliding by. It’s not perfect; sometimes the area could use a bit more tidying up, but that’s part of its charm. It feels lived in, loved, and real. I remember sitting there one humid evening, sipping on coconut water, watching the sky turn pink over the river, and thinking: this is what travel is supposed to feel like — simple and human.

The park’s location right in the center of Banjarmasin makes it easy to reach, and that’s probably why locals treat it like their communal backyard. It’s also close to the floating market, so you can easily combine both experiences in one day. The park is particularly photogenic in the golden hour when the sunlight reflects off the water and the Bekantan statue glows like it’s alive. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone who’s been to Banjarmasin a dozen times, this place has a way of pulling you back.

Key Features

• Iconic Bekantan Statue: A towering symbol of Banjarmasin’s wildlife heritage and a must-see photo spot.
• Riverside Promenade: Long, scenic walkways along the Martapura River perfect for leisurely strolls or morning jogs.
• Floating Market Access: Close to the famous floating market where visitors can hop on a traditional kelotok boat.
• Local Street Food: Dozens of small vendors offering authentic snacks and drinks that capture the flavors of South Kalimantan.
• Public Facilities: Clean restrooms and seating areas, making it comfortable for families and solo travelers alike.
• Kid-Friendly Atmosphere: Safe open spaces where children can play freely while parents relax nearby.
• Evening Lights: The park transforms at night with soft lighting and the reflection of the Bekantan statue on the river.

One of my favorite things here is how the park never feels rushed. You can walk slowly, stop for a snack, chat with locals, or just sit by the water doing nothing — and that’s perfectly fine. It’s that kind of place that reminds you to slow down and enjoy the simple rhythm of life.

Best Time to Visit

If you ask the locals, they’ll tell you the best time to come is late afternoon, right before sunset. The heat has mellowed by then, the light is soft, and the river glows like liquid gold. Around this time, street food vendors start setting up, and you can smell grilled satay and fried bananas wafting through the air. The atmosphere becomes lively but not chaotic — just the right balance of energy and calm.

Morning visits are lovely too, especially if you’re an early riser. You can catch the floating market in full swing, with boats loaded with fruits, vegetables, and flowers gliding past. It’s peaceful, almost meditative. Avoid visiting in the middle of the day if you can, as the tropical sun can be intense. And during the rainy season, which usually falls between November and March, bring an umbrella — sudden showers are part of the adventure here.

How to Get There

Reaching Taman Siring Sungai Martapura Maskot Bekantan is straightforward since it’s located right in central Banjarmasin. If you’re staying within the city, a short ride by motorbike taxi or angkot (local minibus) will get you there in minutes. For those coming from outside the city, taxis from Syamsudin Noor International Airport take roughly 30–40 minutes depending on traffic. If you prefer something more scenic, you can even approach the park by river — yes, by boat! Hop on a kelotok from one of the nearby docks, and you’ll glide right up alongside the park’s edge. It’s a beautiful way to experience the city’s waterways before stepping onto the riverside walkway.

Parking is available nearby, though it can get busy during weekends and public holidays. The park isn’t fully wheelchair accessible yet, which is something to keep in mind if you’re traveling with someone who needs mobility support. Still, most of the main paths are flat and easy to walk on, making it manageable for most visitors.

Tips for Visiting

Here’s the thing — visiting Taman Siring Sungai Martapura Maskot Bekantan isn’t just about sightseeing. It’s about soaking in the rhythm of Banjarmasin life. To make the most of your visit, here are a few personal tips I’ve picked up along the way:

• Go during golden hour. The lighting is perfect for photos, and the park feels more alive as locals gather after work.
• Try the local snacks. Don’t skip the pisang goreng (fried banana) or soto Banjar from the street vendors nearby — they’re cheap, tasty, and authentic.
• Bring small cash. Most vendors don’t take cards, and you’ll want to try a few different treats.
• Take a boat ride. The kelotok rides along the Martapura River are inexpensive and give you a whole new perspective of the city.
• Respect local customs. Banjarmasin is a friendly but conservative city. Dress modestly, especially if you plan to visit nearby mosques.
• Stay after dark. The park lights up beautifully at night, and the reflection of the Bekantan statue on the water is worth seeing.
• Bring a camera or phone with good battery life. You’ll take more photos than you expect — trust me.

One thing I always tell fellow travelers: don’t rush through it. Sit by the river. Watch the boats. Talk to the locals — they love sharing stories about the city and the legend of the bekantan. It’s these small interactions that turn a simple park visit into something memorable.

And if you’re into photography, this place is a dream. The contrast between the calm river, the modern park design, and the traditional life on the water gives you endless compositions. I once spent nearly an hour just capturing the reflections of the boats and the statue as the sky shifted colors. It’s one of those places that rewards patience and curiosity.

In the end, Taman Siring Sungai Martapura Maskot Bekantan isn’t just a tourist stop — it’s a living piece of Banjarmasin’s story. It’s where the city’s pulse beats strongest, where people gather not because they have to, but because they want to. Whether you come for the view, the food, or just a quiet moment by the river, you’ll leave with that warm, content feeling that only real places — not polished attractions — can give you. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll find yourself planning to come back before you’ve even left.

Key Highlights

• Key Features
• Best Time to Visit
• How to Get There
• Tips for Visiting

Location

Places to Stay Near Taman Siring Sungai Martapura Maskot Bakantan, Banjarmasin

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