Balai Taman Nasional Bukit Baka in Sintang Regency, West Kalimantan Province
In Sintang Regency, there is a special place called Balai Taman Nasional Bukit Baka. Baka Hill has become a new national park these days and gets more popular among tourists. The location is in Baning Kota Village and it belongs to Sintang Sub-District. Located in downtown, the accessibility is definitely nice. This conservation area even resides near the border between West and Central Kalimantan Province! The prime function relates to the hydrology supply for nearby regions. Recently, however, it becomes a significant vacation area for those who love nature and adventure!
The Nuance
The nuance is definitely lush and pristine due to the presence of tons of tall trees. When it comes to size, the total area is about 181,090 hectares. The locals take advantage of the abundant groundwater, as well. It is said this area becomes the source of water for both Katingan and Melawi River! In the north part, it is bordering with Melawi and Sintang Regency. In the other parts, it is bordering with Katingan Regency of Central Kalimantan Province. What about the crowd? Actually, the number of visitors depends on the occasion. For instance, lots of tourists are seen on the site both during weekends and holidays!
Exploring Balai Taman Nasional Bukit Baka
So, what can tourists enjoy in Bukit Baka National Park? The first thing to explore and watch is the various floras, without a doubt! It is said more than 800 species of plants grow abundantly in that area. Some of the famous plants are wild orchids and medicinal plants. Here is a fact. Tourists may see the world’s biggest flower called Rafflesia, too. Thus, don’t forget to carry a camera and take photos of those flowers later.
Aside from flora, Bukit Baka National Park is also known for its fauna. However, tourists need to come at the right time to watch exotic animals like honey bear, lutung, orangutan, and much more. Some people even need to hire a local guide who knows the best spot to approach these animals. It is likely hard to take photos, as most of the animals are either shy or afraid of human. Once again, coming with a guide is a good idea and makes the efforts easier.
Is that all? Well, the site has more than flora and fauna! It is because tourist can enjoy trekking and reach the top of Baka Hill. Other highlands are also available to explore, offering a different height and difficulty. There is also the Ella River, which is suitable for rafting! Another recommended thing to do is to visit the famous Sepan Apoi Hot Spring at Batu Panahan Village. Not to mention Demang Ehud resides near to it, so don’t forget to drop by as well.
Nearby Attractions
• Simpang Lima Sintang
• Bank Indonesia Monument
• Baning Forest
• Rumah Betang Kobus
How to Get There
Outsiders should consider taking an airplane in order to reach the capital of West Kalimantan Province. From Jakarta City, for instance, a flight from Soekarno – Hatta International Airport to Supadio Airport would take around 1 hour and 25 minutes. Once arriving at Pontianak, they must take another plane service and head to Sintang Regency. For the information, a flight from Supadio to Susilo Airport may take around 40 minutes. After arriving at Siantang, the next destination is Baning Kota Village where the tourist site is located. The best route to take is Lintas Kalimantan Poros Tengah Street and the distance is only 1.9 km. This trip would take only about 5 minutes, therefore.
Where to Stay
• Ladja Hotel
• Bagoes Guesthouse
• My Homes Sintang
• Grand Royal Hotel
