Chai Kwe
Thin-skinned steamed dumplings filled with jicama or chives, from the Teochew Chinese-Indonesian tradition in Pontianak.
Kalimantan Barat
Pontianak & Tugu Khatulistiwa
The City the Equator Runs Through
Destination story
Pontianak is one of the major cities the equator passes through. The Equator Monument marks the line, and twice a year, around 21 to 23 March and 21 to 23 September, the sun is directly overhead so upright objects seem to lose their shadow for a moment; the event is marked with an annual celebration.
The city grew at the confluence of the Kapuas River, the longest river in Indonesia, and the Landak River. Kadriah Palace and the Sultan Syarif Abdurrahman Jami Mosque mark the history of the Pontianak Sultanate, while riverside warungs fill up in the evening.
A few hours to the north, Singkawang is known for its Chinese-Indonesian culture and the Cap Go Meh celebration with tatung. Local dishes such as bubur pedas, chai kwe, and Pontianak coffee are easy to find in these cities.
Why visitStand right on the equator, plus Malay, Dayak, and Chinese-Indonesian cultures blending on the banks of the Kapuas River.
Highlights & attractions
Things to do
Culture
Nature
Must-Try Local Dishes
In Pontianak & Tugu Khatulistiwa, try Chai Kwe and Yam Iem Mi. Food from other regions
Yam Iem Mi
A Pontianak noodle dish with savoury seasoning and side dishes, part of the city's Chinese-Indonesian food tradition.
Travel tips
- Supadio Airport has direct flights from Jakarta and other cities.
- Bring sunscreen and an umbrella; heat and rain can arrive suddenly.
- Schedule Singkawang separately because it takes several hours to get there.
- Try bubur pedas and chai kwe at places busy with local diners.
Open trip packages to Pontianak & Tugu Khatulistiwa
1 package available, from IDR 1,350,000.
