Discovering the Banjar Traditional Houses of South Kalimantan

Helloindonesia.id – Indonesia is well known for its diverse cultures and traditional architecture. One of the most fascinating cultural assets comes from South Kalimantan the Banjar Traditional House. These houses stand out not only in design but also in their cultural and historical significance.

Teluk Selong Heritage Site: Preserving Centuries of Tradition

For those who love cultural tourism, the Teluk Selong Heritage Site, located in Telok Selong Village, Banjar Regency, is a must-visit destination. This site is home to two legendary Banjar traditional houses that are over 150 years old and still inhabited by descendants of the original families. The two architectural gems are:

• Rumah Bubungan Tinggi (High Ridge Roof House)
• Rumah Gajah Baliku

Rumah Bubungan Tinggi: A Royal Symbol of Banjar Architecture

Distinctive Features

Rumah Bubungan Tinggi is the most prestigious and symbolic traditional house of the Banjar people. Historically, it was reserved for royalty or noble families. The most distinctive element is its towering central roof, known as the “bubungan tinggi” or high ridge roof.

Roof Structure

• Pisang Sasikat Roof: Covers the right and left anjung (side sections).
• Sindang Langit Roof: Located in front of the high ridge roof.
• Hambin Awan Roof: Located at the back.

This unique combination makes Rumah Bubungan Tinggi the iconic representation of Banjar architectural heritage.

Rumah Gajah Baliku: Symmetry and Simplicity in Harmony

Key Differences

While it looks similar to Rumah Bubungan Tinggi, Rumah Gajah Baliku has significant differences in interior layout. The Paluaran Room (guest room) in this house has a flat floor, unlike the tiered floor of Rumah Bubungan Tinggi, which reflects social hierarchy in noble residences.

Roof and Interior Layout

• Gajah Roof (hip roof): Used in the front section, without the Sindang Langit roof above the guest room.
• Ambin Sayup: The term for the flat guest room space.
• Anjung Sections: Still use the Pisang Sasikat roof on both sides.

This structure offers a simpler yet elegant version of Banjar traditional house design.

How to Reach the Banjar Traditional Houses

The Teluk Selong Heritage Site is located:

• About 4 km east of Banjarmasin City
• Only 3.2 km from Martapura City

From downtown Banjarmasin, drive toward Martapura, then continue your journey to Telok Selong Village. You can also ask locals for more precise directions.

Admission and Donations

Admission is free for all visitors. However, guests are encouraged to:

• Sign the guest book
• Leave a voluntary donation to help with the preservation of these cultural heritage buildings

Maintaining these traditional houses is a collective responsibility to protect Indonesia’s cultural legacy.

Visit too https://balitraveldiary.com/