Singkawang: A Hidden Gem in West Kalimantan, Indonesia

📍Must-See Attractions 1. Dewi Kwan Im Temple Dedicated to Guan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy, Dewi Kwan Im Temple is one of Singkawang's most famous temples, boasting ornate architecture and exquisite interior decoration. Here, you can also draw divination lots and experience the rich religious atmosphere. 2. Thai Pak Kung Temple Located about 5 km southeast of the city center, Thai Pak Kung Temple is one of Singkawang's landmarks. The giant dragon sculpture in front of the temple is truly magnificent. 3. Tri Dharma Bumi Raya Temple One of the oldest temples in West Kalimantan, built in 1878, Tri Dharma Bumi Raya Temple is an important place for the local Chinese community to celebrate the Lunar New Year. 4. Masjid Raya Singkawang One of the oldest mosques in West Kalimantan, Masjid Raya Singkawang features unique architecture and stands as a testament to the fusion of local cultures. 5. Taman Batu Belimbing (Starfruit Stone Park) This uniquely shaped boulder resembles a starfruit from certain angles. With an entrance fee of only Rp 5,000, it's a great spot for taking photos. 6. Taman Cinta Pajintan (Love Park) This park features a colorful spiral staircase leading to a giant dragon-shaped structure, offering a unique view. The entrance fee is Rp 40,000, making it suitable for families. 7. Taman Bunga Bukit Bougenville (Bougainvillea Hill Flower Park) Home to dozens of bougainvillea varieties, a fragrant tree forest, and a replica of Borobudur, this park has an entrance fee of Rp 25,000 and is perfect for nature lovers. 8. Taman Makam Pahlawan (Heroes Cemetery) This cemetery honors the heroes who contributed to Indonesia's national unity and is located on the main road between Singkawang and Pontianak. 🍔Food Recommendations Singkawang offers many unique dishes, the most recommended of which is *choi pan* (Indonesian dumplings). The dumpling skin is made from rice flour and tapioca flour, and the fillings are diverse, usually including chives, minced meat, and bamboo shoots. The best place to try *choi pan* is at “Tjia Tjia Seng Heritage House,” where the dumplings are delicious, especially when paired with chili sauce and sweet soy sauce. 🚌Transportation Guide Singkawang currently does not have an airport. The nearest airport is Supadio International Airport in Pontianak. From Pontianak Airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Singkawang, a journey of approximately 150 km. Singkawang plans to build a new airport in the future, which will make transportation more convenient. 📸Best Photo Spots • Dewi Kwan Im Temple: The ornate architecture makes it ideal for photographing religious buildings. • Thai Pak Kung Temple: The giant dragon sculpture in front of the temple is a perfect photo spot. • Taman Batu Belimbing: The unique natural landscape is suitable for creative photography. • Taman Cinta Pajintan: The colorful spiral staircase and dragon structure are great for family and couple photos. 📝Travel Tips • Best time to travel: The climate is warm and humid year-round. It is recommended to visit outside the rainy season (October to March). • Language: While the official language is Indonesian, the local Chinese community and some residents speak Chinese, so communication is not a problem. • Cultural experiences: Singkawang has a rich Chinese culture. You can participate in local festivals such as Lunar New Year or Cap Go Meh (similar to Thanksgiving).