The Land of Diamonds
Situated around 45 km east of Banjarmasin, the capital of South Kalimantan Province, lies Martapura, a small city known for its abundance of diamonds and other precious rocks found within the depths of Borneo’s earth. As the capital of the Banjar Regency, Martapura is not only famous for being the center of the diamond industry in Kalimantan but also for its expertise in diamond cutting and polishing, as well as producing high-quality jewelry.
A City Shining Bright
If you have a passion for jewelry and accessories made from precious stones like necklaces, bracelets, rings, brooches, and more, then Martapura is definitely a must-visit destination. Here, you can find a wide range of jewelry made from pure diamond, gold, zircon, silver, various gemstones, and even plastic or glass imitations. The quality of the jewelry in Martapura is renowned globally and considered among the best in the world. Moreover, besides being a showcase for Borneo’s sparkling rocks, Martapura is also where diamonds and other gemstones are mined and processed.
How to Get There
To reach Martapura, you will need to fly into Banjarmasin first. As the capital city of South Kalimantan province, Banjarmasin is well-connected with many domestic airlines. Once you arrive at Banjarmasin’s Syamsudin Noor Airport, you can easily access Martapura by public transportation or rent a car for approximately a one-hour drive. If you are coming from the nearby town of Banjarbaru, the trip will only take around 15 minutes.
By Air:
- Fly to Banjarmasin’s Syamsudin Noor Airport.
- From the airport, it will take around 20 minutes by car to reach Martapura.
By Land:
- If you are already in Banjarbaru, the journey to Martapura will only be about a 15-minute drive.
- If you are starting from Banjarmasin, it will take approximately one hour to reach Martapura by car.
Regardless of your chosen mode of transportation, you will find yourself surrounded by breathtaking landscapes as you make your way to Martapura. The journey itself is an adventure worth experiencing.
Exploring Martapura
As you arrive in Martapura, get ready for an exciting exploration of this diamond-filled city. Here are some must-visit places and experiences that should not be missed:
1. Diamond Market
Your visit to Martapura would not be complete without exploring the famous diamond market. This bustling market is where you can find a wide variety of diamonds and gemstones on display. Take your time to browse through the stalls and discover unique pieces of jewelry or even loose diamonds that you can have customized into your own design.
2. Diamond Cutting and Polishing Workshops
To truly appreciate the craftsmanship behind every piece of jewelry, visit one of the many diamond cutting and polishing workshops in Martapura. Here, you will witness firsthand how rough diamonds are transformed into dazzling gems by skilled artisans. It’s a mesmerizing process that showcases the city’s expertise in diamond craftsmanship.
3. Museum Lambung Mangkurat
Dive into the rich history and culture of South Kalimantan at the Museum Lambung Mangkurat. Located in Banjarmasin, this museum offers a comprehensive collection of artifacts, traditional costumes, ancient weapons, and historical documents that provide insights into the local heritage. It’s a great place to learn more about the region’s past before immersing yourself in Martapura’s diamond industry.
4. Floating Market
While you are in Banjarmasin, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the famous floating market. Experience the unique atmosphere as local vendors trade their goods from traditional wooden boats. You can try various local delicacies and witness the vibrant daily life of the river community.
5. Diamond Mining Tour
If you want to delve deeper into Martapura’s diamond industry, consider taking a diamond mining tour. This guided tour will take you to the mining sites where diamonds are extracted from Borneo’s earth. Learn about the process of mining and get a glimpse into the lives of miners who work tirelessly to unearth these precious stones.
Where to Stay
Martapura offers various accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels or budget-friendly guesthouses, you will find a range of choices available in and around the city.
1. Diamond Hotel
- A luxurious hotel located in Martapura city center.
- Offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities.
- Provides easy access to nearby attractions and diamond shops.
2. Guesthouse Martapura
- A budget-friendly guesthouse situated near Martapura’s diamond market.
- Provides clean and cozy rooms at affordable rates.
- Convenient location for exploring the city’s attractions on foot.
3. Banjarmasin Riverside Hotel
- A riverside hotel located in Banjarmasin, just a short drive from Martapura.
- Offers comfortable rooms with river views.
- Provides easy access to both Martapura and Banjarmasin attractions.
No matter where you choose to stay, you will be greeted with warm hospitality and friendly service, ensuring a pleasant stay during your visit to Martapura.
Closing Thoughts
Martapura, the Land of Diamonds, offers a unique experience for jewelry enthusiasts and travelers alike. From its world-renowned diamond industry to its fascinating mining tours and bustling diamond market, there is always something exciting waiting to be discovered in this sparkling city. So pack your bags, embark on an adventure, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Martapura’s precious stones!
