Explore the beauty of Sengkawang city through various tourist destinations, offering natural, cultural, and historical tourist destinations that must be visited.
Singkawang, a city in West Kalimantan located about 145 km north of Pontianak, has a variety of interesting and enchanting tourist destinations. This city is known as the “City of a Thousand Temples” and “Hongkong van Borneo” because of its beautiful architecture and cultural diversity.
The name Singkawang itself comes from the Hakka language, “San Kew Jong,” which means a city between the sea, estuary, mountains, and rivers. With a population consisting of ethnic Chinese, Dayak, and Malay, Singkawang is one of the most tolerant cities in Indonesia.
Visiting Singkawang is not just about enjoying the natural panorama, but also immersing yourself in its rich culture and long history. Here are 10 tourist destinations you must visit when you are in Singkawang.
1. Setapuk Mangrove Forest
Setapuk Mangrove Forest is a natural tourist destination that is suitable for family vacations while increasing knowledge about the mangrove forest ecosystem. Here, you can enjoy beautiful views from the top of the observation tower, walk among the mangrove trees, and explore Things to do in Singkawang, such as outbound activities and fishing.
In addition, tourists can also explore the river in the middle of the mangrove forest using a speedboat, adding to the unique experience while in Singkawang.
2. Long Sand Beach
Pasir Panjang Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Singkawang. As the name suggests, this beach has a long line of white sand, making it a perfect place to relax. Visitors can enjoy the cool atmosphere while sitting on the beach or playing in the water.
This beach also offers various water activities, such as banana boats, which are very popular with tourists. The best time to visit this beach is in the morning or evening, when the weather is cooler.
3. Bird Rock Beach
Not far from Pasir Panjang Beach, Batu Burung Beach offers views that are no less stunning. This beach is famous for its rock formations that resemble birds, making a perfect natural backdrop for photos.
In addition, this beach is also a favorite place for fishing, with a calm and peaceful atmosphere. Walking along the beach while enjoying the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks is a calming experience.
4. Singkawang Blue Lake
Singkawang Blue Lake is a former mining lake that has now been transformed into a popular tourist attraction. The stunning bright blue color of the water, surrounded by mountains and wild grass, creates a sight to behold.
Although this lake was formed from mining activities, this place should not be missed for those of you looking for an instagrammable photo spot with a unique and beautiful natural background.
5. Tjhia Family House Cultural Heritage
For those who want to increase their historical knowledge, the Tjhia Family House Cultural Heritage is a must-visit destination. Built in 1901-1902, this house is the residence of the descendants of Tjhia Siu Si, a famous figure in Singkawang.
Even though it has stood for more than a century, this building is still well maintained and maintains its original architecture. Taking pictures with the background of this historically rich house is one of the main attractions for visiting tourists.
6. Beautiful Tadow Lake
Lake Tadow Indah is an alternative natural tourism destination that offers tranquility and beauty. Here, visitors can relax on the edge of the lake, play in the water, or go fishing. You can also rent a boat and paddle it to the middle of the lake to experience the sensation of sailing on calm water.
After fishing, you can take your catch to a nearby restaurant to be processed into a delicious dish.
7. Starfruit Stone Park
Taman Batu Belimbing is a unique tourist destination that offers extraordinary natural scenery with large rocks shaped like starfruit. The rocks are surrounded by water, creating an interesting photo spot for tourists.
This location is very popular among tourists who want to capture their holiday moments in Singkawang with an unusual background.
8. Hong Kong Market
Singkawang also has an interesting shopping tourist destination, namely Hongkong Market. Even though it is in Indonesia, the atmosphere of this market is reminiscent of the density and life in Hong Kong, which is why it is named as such.
This market offers a variety of mouth-watering local goods and culinary delights. You can taste a variety of Singkawang specialties which are famous for their delicious taste.
9. Sibohe Waterfall
Sibohe Waterfall, although not very big, offers a beautiful and calming natural atmosphere. This waterfall is surrounded by shady trees and cool air, making it an ideal place to rest and unwind.
Tourists can play in the water around the waterfall, feeling the freshness of the water falling from a height. This place is suitable for those of you who are looking for a natural tourist destination that is not too crowded.
10. Tatung Parade (Cap Go Meh)
It would be incomplete to visit Singkawang without watching the Tatung Parade held every year during the Cap Go Meh celebration. This parade is known as one of the largest parades in the world, where participants display stunning attractions, such as walking on hot coals or sticking sharp objects into their bodies.
This parade is a testament to the strong cultural traditions in Singkawang and is a major attraction for local and international tourists.
Singkawang is not only a city with natural beauty, but also rich in culture and history. With a variety of interesting Tourist Attractions in Pontianak, this city is worthy of being a tourist destination for those of you who want to enjoy the charm of West Kalimantan.