Sentarum Lake, an Exotic Lake with Unique Flora and Fauna in Kapuas Hulu

Sentarum Lake, an Exotic Lake with Unique Flora and Fauna in Kapuas Hulu

Enjoy the beauty of Lake Sentarum in Kapuas Hulu, West Kalimantan, with its seasonal lake, unique flora and fauna, and strong local traditions.

Lake Sentarum, a hidden gem in Kapuas Hulu Regency, West Kalimantan, is a natural wonder that captivates with its seasonal lake and rich biodiversity. Hidden amidst dense tropical rainforest, the area plays a vital role as the main water supplier for the Kapuas River.

For 10 months of the year, the lake is full and for the remaining two months, the water recedes, leaving behind small pools filled with fish. This unique phenomenon makes Lake Sentarum one of the favorite destinations for nature tourism and ecosystem exploration.

The Beauty of Sentarum Lake National Park

Danau Sentarum National Park (TNDS) is a vast conservation area, covering more than 80,000 hectares, with more than 80 small lakes that function as rainwater reservoirs.

This area is home to diverse species of flora and fauna and is one of the areas with the highest biodiversity in Indonesia.

1. Stunning Natural Landscape

Lake Sentarum has a unique and unusual natural beauty. The water is reddish in color due to the tannin content from the surrounding peat forest.

When the rainy season arrives, the water rises and inundates the surrounding forest to a height of 6-15 meters, creating a spectacular natural mirror. The landscape surrounded by green hills becomes even more enchanting at dusk, when the golden sky reflects on the calm water.

2. Richness of Unique Species and Habitats

Lake Sentarum is home to a variety of rare freshwater species, including the highly prized red arowana fish. The TNDS area is also home to 147 species of mammals, including the rare orangutan, proboscis monkey, and clouded leopard.

Not to mention, the area is home to more than 310 species of birds and 154 species of orchids, including several species that can only be found in Kalimantan.

Reptile life is also very diverse, with 31 species including the saltwater crocodile, the crocodilian crocodile, and even the frogmouth crocodile, which was believed to have become extinct more than 150 years ago. This high biodiversity makes TNDS an important place for conservation and research.

3. High Value Kalimantan Forest Honey

Lake Sentarum is also one of the largest natural honey producers in Indonesia. Honey produced in this area has obtained Organic Food System certification from BIOCERT since 2007, making it a high quality and economically valuable product.

Local people use traditional methods to harvest honey, maintaining its quality and authenticity. Its distinctive taste is in great demand, both by local and international tourists.

4. Alluring Seasonal Lake

As a seasonal lake, Lake Sentarum has a fascinating cycle. During the rainy season, this vast lake fills up, while in the dry season, the water recedes and leaves small pools full of fish.

Local people take advantage of the dry season to harvest fish trapped in these shallow ponds. This seasonal phenomenon provides valuable lessons about natural cycles and survival.

Local Community Life

Lake Sentarum is an important part of the lives of the Dayak people who live around it, including the Iban, Sebaruk, and Kenyah Dayak tribes. They still maintain their traditional way of life and manage nature wisely.

From harvesting honey to catching fish, they use environmentally friendly methods. Their life in harmony with nature offers a unique cultural experience for visitors, as well as providing insight into the Dayak way of life that is full of local wisdom.

Route to Sentarum Lake

Lake Sentarum is located about 520 km from Pontianak City, or about 2 hours drive from Putussibau. Tourists can travel to Lake Sentarum with several route options.

From Pontianak, the trip can be done by land to Putussibau which takes about 11-12 hours. If you want to be faster, there are daily flights from Pontianak to Putussibau served by local airlines.

From Putussibau, the journey can be continued by car to Lanjak, the main location of TNDS. Tourists who are around Sarawak, Malaysia, can also go through the cross-border route with the Entikong State Border Crossing Post (PLBN).

This route allows faster access for visitors coming from Malaysia or areas around the Kalimantan border.

Tips for Visiting Sentarum Lake

  1. Choose the Right Time: If you want to see the lake in full condition, it is better to visit during the rainy season between October to March. While if you want to see small ponds and traditional fishing experience, come during the dry season.
  2. Air Transportation: Due to the distance from Pontianak, air transportation from Pontianak to Putussibau is a more practical and time-saving option.
  3. Accommodation: It is best to book accommodation well in advance, especially during the Sentarum Lake Festival, an annual event that attracts many visitors.
  4. Consultation with a Travel Agent: Because the location of TNDS is quite remote, plan your trip with an experienced travel agent, especially if you want to explore the entire area and meet the local Dayak people.

Sentarum Lake Festival

For those of you who want to experience more of the local culture, the Sentarum Lake Festival is an annual event held around TNDS. This festival features various cultural events, such as dance, traditional music, and an exhibition of typical Dayak crafts.

This festival not only showcases the beauty of nature, but also introduces local wisdom preserved by the local community. This festival is the best time to visit TNDS, experience the colorful atmosphere, and understand more deeply the life of the Dayak people.

Lake Sentarum, located in Kapuas Hulu, offers a combination of nature, culture, and biodiversity that is rarely found anywhere else.

From the beauty of the seasonal lake to the traditional life of the Dayak people, Lake Seran is the perfect destination for those looking for a rich and authentic nature tourism experience.

Enjoy its charm and find a valuable experience that will be hard to forget in the middle of the exotic Kalimantan forest.

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