Ranked among the top retail attractions in Banjarmasin, the 500-year-old Lok Baintan floating market is a thriving hub on the Martapura River. Here are some fascinating facts regarding the market.
A Rich Legacy
Tipped to be one of Kalimantan’s main tourist attractions, the Lok Baintan floating market is a one-of-a-kind thoroughfare with a rich history. Ideally situated close to POP! Hotel Banjarmasin and other similar hubs for accommodation in Banjarmasin, the market is where travel enthusiasts can enjoy a truly authentic shopping experience.
Hot Pick Purchases
Canoe paddling vendors retail everything from oranges, bananas and water spinach to fish, coconut and woven mats and baskets at this busy market where the products on sale differ with the changing of the seasons. Most locals head to the venue to purchase their daily vegetables and fruits and those who are planning on buying goods at the market should ideally visit before 9 am as most items are sold out by this time.
Canal Tour and Shopping Spree
Those who head down the Martapura River often pair a shopping spree at the Lok Baintan floating market with a canal tour similar to those touring the klongs of Bangkok during an excursion on the Chao Phraya River.
Timing of the Visit
Tour operators usually set out in the early morning hours (5 am) when paddling towards the market as it takes around 45 minutes to travel from downtown Banjarmasin to the market. Backpackers and other travellers can grab breakfast at the market as many canoes selling tea, coffee and pisang goreng among other treats are common.
