Floating Market Lok Baintan (Banjarmasin) FAQs In 2024

What is the Floating Market Lok Baintan?

The Floating Market Lok Baintan is a traditional market in Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan, Indonesia. It is unique because the entire market is on the water, with vendors and buyers trading goods directly from their boats on the Martapura River. This cultural attraction offers tourists a glimpse into local life and tradition.

Visitors can expect to see a bustling market scene with traders selling a variety of goods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, local snacks, and handicrafts all from their traditional wooden boats known locally as 'jukung'. It's a colorful and vibrant spectacle that also provides opportunities for photography.

The best time to visit the market is early in the morning, typically before 9 am, as the market is most active during these hours. The market usually starts at dawn and can wind down as the morning progresses, so arriving early ensures you can experience the liveliness and the widest range of goods.

Tourists can reach the Floating Market Lok Baintan typically from their hotel in Banjarmasin by a car or a local transport to a river dock where boats are available for hire. From there, visitors will take a boat ride, which can last around 30 to 60 minutes, to the location of the market on the river.

While it's possible to visit the market without a guide, hiring a guide can enhance the experience as they provide valuable insights into the local culture, help with language barriers and can assist in navigating the market. Guides can usually be arranged through travel agencies or hotels.

There is no entrance fee to access the market itself, as it is a public space. However, visitors will need to pay for the boat rental to reach and navigate the market. Prices for boat rentals can vary, and it's advisable to negotiate the fare beforehand or book through a reputable tour operator.

Visitors should bring Indonesian rupiah for purchases, sunscreen and a hat for protection from the sun, a camera for photos, and bottled water for hydration. It's also recommended to bring a light jacket as it can be cool in the early morning.

As with any cultural site, it's important to show respect to the local traditions and people. Polite haggling over prices is acceptable, but always remain courteous. It's advisable to ask for permission before taking photographs of traders or local people.

Yes, visitors can buy a variety of local foods and snacks from the vendors. It's a great opportunity to try traditional Banjarese cuisine. Just be cautious if you're sensitive to new foods and make sure to purchase from clean and reputable vendors.

Yes, Banjarmarin has several other attractions nearby, including the Sultan Suriansyah Mosque, the oldest mosque in South Kalimantan, as well as the Banjarmasin City tour which includes Siring Watch Tower, Taman Siring Martapura Riverfront, and Diamond processing centers.

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