×

Indonesia🇮🇩 | citiesSingkawangChinese temples, lantern festivals, street snacks | things to do and best time to go

Explore BitungExplore Probolinggo

Backpacking in Singkawang
👀 For curious travelerscity ranked #42
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated October 15, 2026

Most travelers fixate on Singkawang's Chinese New Year festival, but the real draw is the city itself: a working port town where Chinese temples sit beside Muslim mosques, where street food vendors move faster than the traffic, and where you can actually afford to stay. Singkawang sits on the northwest coast of West Kalimantan, Indonesia, a region most backpackers skip entirely. I remember standing at dawn on a fishing dock, watching boats unload their catch while incense smoke drifted from a nearby temple, and realizing this place rewards curiosity over checklist-ticking. It's cheaper and rawer than Bali, less touristy than Yogyakarta, and genuinely alive.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 Indonesia Travel Guide.


example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Indonesia
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Indonesia
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Indonesia
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Indonesia
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Indonesia
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Indonesia
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Indonesia
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Indonesia
Loading the map 🌍
CLICK TO FILTER
cities
towns
villages
landmarks
national parks
hikes
beaches
attractions
festivals
regions
SHOW COUNTRY’S BESTSHOW ALL

✨ Why go?
Ranked #42 city in IndonesiaThe unique appeal for travelers

Singkawang works as a basecamp for exploring West Kalimantan's interior and as a destination in its own right. The city has affordable hostels and guesthouses, a strong street food scene centered on seafood and noodles, and walkable neighborhoods where you can navigate without a guide. Onward travel to Sambas, Mempawah, and inland Dayak villages is straightforward by local transport. The nightlife is low-key but genuine, with local bars and night markets. Most importantly, Singkawang feels like a real working city, not a tourist stage, making it ideal for travelers seeking authentic interaction over polished experiences.

💡 HighlightsThe experiences that define the visit

  1. Tanjung Penimba Lighthouse: A functional lighthouse on a rocky promontory with views across the Strait of Malacca. Best visited at sunset when fishing boats return. Free entry, 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  2. Tua Pek Kong Temple: The largest Chinese temple in West Kalimantan, ornate and active, with intricate carvings and a peaceful courtyard. Open daily; donation suggested (US$1 to 2). 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  3. Alun-Alun Singkawang (Central Square): The heart of the city, surrounded by shops, food stalls, and local life. Best in early morning or evening. Free, 1 to 2 hours.
  4. Pasar Besar (Main Market): A sprawling wet market where locals buy fish, produce, and spices. Arrive early (6:00 to 8:00 AM) for the best energy and freshest goods. Free to walk, US$2 to 5 for food. 1 to 2 hours.
  5. Pantai Pasir Panjang (Long
… read more 👉
  1. Tanjung Penimba Lighthouse: A functional lighthouse on a rocky promontory with views across the Strait of Malacca. Best visited at sunset when fishing boats return. Free entry, 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  2. Tua Pek Kong Temple: The largest Chinese temple in West Kalimantan, ornate and active, with intricate carvings and a peaceful courtyard. Open daily; donation suggested (US$1 to 2). 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  3. Alun-Alun Singkawang (Central Square): The heart of the city, surrounded by shops, food stalls, and local life. Best in early morning or evening. Free, 1 to 2 hours.
  4. Pasar Besar (Main Market): A sprawling wet market where locals buy fish, produce, and spices. Arrive early (6:00 to 8:00 AM) for the best energy and freshest goods. Free to walk, US$2 to 5 for food. 1 to 2 hours.
  5. Pantai Pasir Panjang (Long Sand Beach): A working beach with fishing activity, not a resort beach. Quieter than tourist spots, good for swimming and watching daily life. Free, 1 to 2 hours.
  6. Masjid Raya Al-Falah: A large mosque with striking architecture, welcoming to respectful visitors outside prayer times. Free, 30 minutes.
  7. Rumah Radakng (Dayak Longhouse Replica): A reconstructed traditional Dayak dwelling on the city's edge, offering insight into interior indigenous life. US$2 to 3, 1 hour.
Day trips from Singkawang include the Sambas Sultanate Palace, the Mempawah War Caves, and Dayak villages in the interior. I'd pick the Mempawah caves first because they're accessible by local minibus and tell a visceral story of World War II resistance that most travelers never encounter.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

🏘️ NeighborhoodsHow different areas shape the experience

  • Alun-Alun (Central Square): The pulsing heart where locals gather, markets sprawl, and street food vendors set up shop. Walk the perimeter to catch the rhythm of daily life, explore nearby shops selling batik and souvenirs, and soak in the energy without fighting crowds. Highly walkable, affordable eats, minimal nightlife but maximum character.
  • Jalan Diponegoro: The main commercial strip where shops, warungs, and casual eateries line the street. Browse textiles, grab lunch for pocket change, and move freely on foot. Daytime buzz dominates; quieter after dark. Best value for time and money spent exploring.
  • Waterfront (Pantai Singkawang): A quieter escape where fishing boats anchor and the pace slows. Stroll the beach at sunset, eat fresh seafood at beachside warungs, and feel the shift from town
… read more 👉
  • Alun-Alun (Central Square): The pulsing heart where locals gather, markets sprawl, and street food vendors set up shop. Walk the perimeter to catch the rhythm of daily life, explore nearby shops selling batik and souvenirs, and soak in the energy without fighting crowds. Highly walkable, affordable eats, minimal nightlife but maximum character.
  • Jalan Diponegoro: The main commercial strip where shops, warungs, and casual eateries line the street. Browse textiles, grab lunch for pocket change, and move freely on foot. Daytime buzz dominates; quieter after dark. Best value for time and money spent exploring.
  • Waterfront (Pantai Singkawang): A quieter escape where fishing boats anchor and the pace slows. Stroll the beach at sunset, eat fresh seafood at beachside warungs, and feel the shift from town energy to coastal calm. Less crowded, more atmospheric, walkable but requires intention to reach.

⌛️ 1 daySeeing the highlights in 24 hours

Singkawang rewards slow exploration of its neighborhoods and waterfront. Start early to catch the city's rhythm before heat sets in. 6:30 AM: Pasar Besar. Arrive at the main market when vendors are setting up and the energy peaks. Watch fish auctions, sample fresh juice, grab breakfast noodles. Walk 15 minutes south to the waterfront. 8:00 AM: Tanjung Penimba Lighthouse. Climb the rocks, watch fishing boats, photograph the strait. Return to town via the same path (20 minutes). 9:30 AM: Tua Pek Kong Temple. Explore the ornate carvings and courtyards. Respectful dress required. 11:00 AM: Alun-Alun Singkawang. Sit at a coffee stall, observe local life, plan lunch. 12:30 PM: Lunch at a warung near the square. Try local seafood or noodles (US$2 to 4). 2:00 PM: Rumah Radakng. Take a local minibus … read more 👉
Singkawang rewards slow exploration of its neighborhoods and waterfront. Start early to catch the city's rhythm before heat sets in. 6:30 AM: Pasar Besar. Arrive at the main market when vendors are setting up and the energy peaks. Watch fish auctions, sample fresh juice, grab breakfast noodles. Walk 15 minutes south to the waterfront. 8:00 AM: Tanjung Penimba Lighthouse. Climb the rocks, watch fishing boats, photograph the strait. Return to town via the same path (20 minutes). 9:30 AM: Tua Pek Kong Temple. Explore the ornate carvings and courtyards. Respectful dress required. 11:00 AM: Alun-Alun Singkawang. Sit at a coffee stall, observe local life, plan lunch. 12:30 PM: Lunch at a warung near the square. Try local seafood or noodles (US$2 to 4). 2:00 PM: Rumah Radakng. Take a local minibus or ojek (motorcycle taxi) to see the Dayak longhouse replica. 4:00 PM: Return and rest at your guesthouse or explore side streets. 6:30 PM: Pantai Pasir Panjang. Watch sunset and local fishermen. 7:30 PM: Dinner and night market near Alun-Alun.

🌤️ When to go?When to go for the best experience

  • Dry Season (May to September): Clear skies, 26 to 32°C (79 to 90°F), and stable conditions make this the prime window. Longer daylight hours favor exploration. Crowds peak and prices rise slightly.
  • Wet Season (October to April): Heavy rain, 24 to 28°C (75 to 82°F), and occasional flooding can disrupt plans. Fewer tourists mean lower prices and quieter streets. Travel remains possible with flexibility.
Visit during May to July for the best balance of weather, daylight, and manageable crowds.

source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: fair for travelingFEBFebruary: fair for travelingMARMarch: fair for travelingAPRApril: good for travelingMAYMay: highly recommended for travelingJUNJune: highly recommended for travelingJULJuly: excellent for travelingAUGAugust: excellent for travelingSEPSeptember: highly recommended for travelingOCTOctober: good for travelingNOVNovember: fair for travelingDECDecember: fair for traveling
when-to-go

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutIndonesia Travel Guide

An offline-friendly backpacking guide with optimized travel routes, ranked highlights, transport advice, and the best areas to stay.
example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Indonesia
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Indonesia
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Indonesia
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Indonesia
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Indonesia
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Indonesia
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Indonesia
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Indonesia
The digital guide (460 pages) contains:
✅ 153 highlights, ranked by travel appeal
✅ Optimized 14, 21 & 30-day travel routes
✅ Cities, national parks, landmarks, beaches
✅ How to get around
✅ Offline-friendly for travel without Wi-Fi
👉 Click to see all 30+ guide features

📅 Plan smarter in minutes, not weeks
✅ Month by month travel advice
✅ Festivals & national holidays
✅ Budget expectations

🗺️ Go to the right places, skip the overrated ones
✅ Honest pros & cons of destinations
✅ Top hikes, parks & viewpoints
✅ Lesser-known places most travelers miss
✅ Clear “worth it vs skip it” guidance

🛏️ Travel smoothly without rookie mistakes
✅ Best areas to stay
✅ Transport systems explained simply
✅ Common scams & safety advice
✅ SIM cards, money & practical tips

🌍 Understand the country, not just visit it
✅ Culture & traditions
✅ 52 Essential phrases & customs
✅ Festivals worth planning around
✅ Traveler-friendly historical context
✅ Insights that make places more meaningful

📱 Built for real travel conditions
✅ Fully downloadable PDF
✅ Works completely offline
✅ Optimized for phone use
✅ Useful in remote areas & buses
✅ Everything in one place
Stop searching, start planning
Get instant access to your full guide. 30‑day money-back guarantee.
+ Add another guide for just

By proceeding you agree to our terms.
Sent to your inbox immediately after payment • 100% Secure Checkout
Best Backpacking Travel Advisor 2025 tourism awardBest Backpacking
Travel Advisor
2025
What others say about Take Your Backpack Guides:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fantastic, amazing amount of information!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My goodness this is amazing, it's what I've been looking for hats off too you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I think this is absolutely BRILLIANT
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Very complete and informative. It's still missing places, but I gotta to commend you
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is truly amazing, thank you, can't wait to explore it with my kids!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Awesome resource, thank you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is amazing! Can't wait to explore the ones I haven't seen
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I love this! Well done, great idea.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks for taking the time to make this gem!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This might be the best website I've ever seen.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Congratulations, and thank you so much for your work; it's incredibly valuable.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
In all seriousness I think you did a great job pointing out the important spots
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10/10 very good
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
As someone who's only just starting to visit regularly this is awesome, thank you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you very much! I'm going to visit my dad, it's going to be very useful!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is really cool! We'll be travelling for the first time and this definitely come in handy.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
You are now our minister of culture, congratulations 👨‍💼
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Just wanted to tell you that this is a pearl! Going to follow your recommendations.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is so cool. I'll definitely be using the resource for my travels soon.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is very impressive! Good work.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is an amazing and informative site. Very well done!

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas and accommodation options

Base yourself in or near Alun-Alun or along Jalan Diponegoro for the best backpacker setup. Both areas have budget guesthouses and simple hostels within walking distance of food, transport links, and the town's rhythm. Alun-Alun offers more local flavor and cheaper beds; Jalan Diponegoro trades slightly higher prices for convenience and proximity to shops. Both are safe at night and walkable. Avoid isolated spots on the outskirts; staying central keeps costs down and keeps you connected to the town's pulse.
Best hostels in Singkawang


Best quality hotels in Indonesia

🚌 Getting aroundHow to get from A to B

Walking is your fastest and cheapest way around Singkawang; the town is compact and flat, making it easy to cover on foot. Traffic is light, and locals navigate streets without stress. For longer distances or when heat builds, cheap local transport keeps momentum going.

  • Walking: Free, immediate, and the best way to absorb the town. Most attractions sit within 20 to 30 minutes on foot. No schedule, full control.
  • Ojek (Motorcycle Taxi): US$1 to 3 per ride, fast (5 to 15 minutes across town), and direct. Negotiate fare before boarding. Comfortable for short hops, thrilling for first-timers.
  • Angkot (Shared Minibus): US$0.50 to 1 per ride, slower (10 to 25 minutes), and crowded during peak hours. Departs when full, runs roughly 6 AM to 6 PM. Cheapest option, authentic experience.
  • Bicycle Rental:
… read more 👉
Walking is your fastest and cheapest way around Singkawang; the town is compact and flat, making it easy to cover on foot. Traffic is light, and locals navigate streets without stress. For longer distances or when heat builds, cheap local transport keeps momentum going.

  • Walking: Free, immediate, and the best way to absorb the town. Most attractions sit within 20 to 30 minutes on foot. No schedule, full control.
  • Ojek (Motorcycle Taxi): US$1 to 3 per ride, fast (5 to 15 minutes across town), and direct. Negotiate fare before boarding. Comfortable for short hops, thrilling for first-timers.
  • Angkot (Shared Minibus): US$0.50 to 1 per ride, slower (10 to 25 minutes), and crowded during peak hours. Departs when full, runs roughly 6 AM to 6 PM. Cheapest option, authentic experience.
  • Bicycle Rental: US$2 to 5 per day, silent and flexible. Flat terrain suits casual riders. No fixed schedule; explore at your own pace.

👛 Costs (as of 15 October 2026)Typical daily expenses

Budget backpacking in Singkawang costs US$20 to 35 per day, making it one of Indonesia's most affordable bases. Accommodation is the biggest variable; transport and food remain consistently cheap.
CategoryBudget RangeLocal Reality
Dorm accommodation (high season)US$8 to 12Simple guesthouses and basic hostels; clean, no frills
Dorm accommodation (off-season)US$6 to 9Same quality, negotiable rates
MealsUS$2 to 5Street food and warungs; seafood slightly higher
Local transportUS$0.50 to 3Angkot, ojek, walking; minimal daily need
City transport passN/ANo pass system; pay per ride
Basic activities/entry feesUS$2 to 8Beach access free; parks and forts US$2 to 5
Miscellaneous expensesUS$2 to 7Coffee, snacks, souvenirs
Total Daily BudgetUS$20 to 35Comfortable on the lower end if you eat local and walk
Eat at … read more 👉
Budget backpacking in Singkawang costs US$20 to 35 per day, making it one of Indonesia's most affordable bases. Accommodation is the biggest variable; transport and food remain consistently cheap.
CategoryBudget RangeLocal Reality
Dorm accommodation (high season)US$8 to 12Simple guesthouses and basic hostels; clean, no frills
Dorm accommodation (off-season)US$6 to 9Same quality, negotiable rates
MealsUS$2 to 5Street food and warungs; seafood slightly higher
Local transportUS$0.50 to 3Angkot, ojek, walking; minimal daily need
City transport passN/ANo pass system; pay per ride
Basic activities/entry feesUS$2 to 8Beach access free; parks and forts US$2 to 5
Miscellaneous expensesUS$2 to 7Coffee, snacks, souvenirs
Total Daily BudgetUS$20 to 35Comfortable on the lower end if you eat local and walk
Eat at warungs instead of tourist restaurants to stretch your budget furthest.
⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🚌 Day tripsWhere to go beyond the main area

Singkawang sits close enough to several worthwhile escapes that make for rewarding half-day or full-day ventures without requiring an overnight stay.

Tanjung Datu National Park
A coastal reserve with jungle trails, pristine beaches, and wildlife spotting opportunities. Travel time is 45 minutes to 1 hour by ojek or angkot. Budget US$8 to 15 for transport and entry. Best visited June to August when trails are dry. First-timers often underestimate the heat; start early and carry water. The payoff is genuine solitude and primary forest.


Mandor Beach
A quieter alternative to Singkawang's waterfront, with fishing villages and seafood warungs. Thirty minutes by ojek (US$2 to 4). Eat lunch for US$3 to 6. Go in the morning when boats are active and the catch is fresh. No entry fee.


Mempawah Fortress … read more 👉
Singkawang sits close enough to several worthwhile escapes that make for rewarding half-day or full-day ventures without requiring an overnight stay.

Tanjung Datu National Park
A coastal reserve with jungle trails, pristine beaches, and wildlife spotting opportunities. Travel time is 45 minutes to 1 hour by ojek or angkot. Budget US$8 to 15 for transport and entry. Best visited June to August when trails are dry. First-timers often underestimate the heat; start early and carry water. The payoff is genuine solitude and primary forest.


Mandor Beach
A quieter alternative to Singkawang's waterfront, with fishing villages and seafood warungs. Thirty minutes by ojek (US$2 to 4). Eat lunch for US$3 to 6. Go in the morning when boats are active and the catch is fresh. No entry fee.


Mempawah Fortress (Benteng Mempawah)
A restored 18th-century coastal fort with views and local history. One hour by angkot (US$1 to 2). Entry is US$2 to 3. Accessible year-round. Combine with a meal in Mempawah town for a full morning or afternoon.

🍲 FoodLocal Flavors for Backpackers

Local cuisine centers on fresh seafood and rice-based dishes. Try ikan bakar (grilled fish) at beachside warungs, nasi kuning (turmeric rice), and sambal in every form. Street food is the backbone of eating here: satay sticks, fried snacks, and fresh fruit from vendors cost US$0.50 to 2 per item.

Eat where locals eat. Markets and casual warungs near Alun-Alun serve authentic meals for US$2 to 4. Coffee culture is strong; grab strong black coffee or sweet condensed-milk coffee at any café. Drinking water is safest from sealed bottles. Alcohol is available but less central to the social scene than in tourist hubs.

🛡️ SafetySafety Tips and Common Scams in Singkawang

Singkawang is generally safe for backpackers, with low violent crime and a welcoming local atmosphere. The main annoyance is petty theft in crowded markets and on public transport, so keep valuables out of sight and bags zipped. Solo travelers, especially women, should avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas; stick to main streets and travel with others after dark. Scams are rare, though unofficial guides may overcharge for tours. Avoid displaying expensive cameras or jewelry. The biggest real risk is traffic: motorbikes and cars move unpredictably, so cross streets carefully and stay alert. Overall, use common sense and you'll have an incident-free stay.
Check Country Safety

FAQFrequently asked questions about Singkawang

Two to three days gives you time to explore the city's temples, markets, and waterfront without rushing, plus a day trip to nearby sites like Mempawah or Sambas. Most backpackers spend one full day in the city center and one exploring the surrounding region by local minibus.
Singkawang is generally safe for solo backpackers, with low violent crime and a welcoming local attitude toward travelers. Standard precautions apply: avoid displaying valuables, stay aware in crowded markets, and use registered taxis or ojeks at night. Solo female travelers report feeling comfortable, though modest dress is respectful in this Muslim-majority region.
Singkawang is known for its Chinese New Year festival (Perayaan Tahun Baru Imlek), which draws thousands of visitors for parades, temple ceremonies, and cultural celebrations. Beyond the festival, the city is recognized as a multicultural port town with significant Chinese heritage, active fishing industry, and authentic street food scene that blends Chinese and Southeast Asian traditions.
⚠️ Things can change over time, so always validate details locally before you go.

Other Indonesian cities near Singkawang

Explore more nearby:

  • Pontianak—equator monument, riverfront, Dayak heritage| 111 km away
  • Batam—Singapore ferries, Riau Islands, seafood, factory hub| 549 km away
  • Palembang—Musi River, floating houses, songket weaving| 637 km away

💡 Not sure where to go next?
Create a personalized itinerary for Indonesia including Singkawang and the places that fit your trip.

Generate my itinerary

👉 Discover all cities

Or checkout all Indonesia has to offer (think cities, towns, villages, national parks, hikes, beaches, festivals)
Explore Indonesia
Country photo of Indonesia
© Google Images

We 💚 feedbackWhat to keep in mind

Singkawang rewards travelers seeking authentic Chinese-Indonesian culture away from tourist crowds, with genuine temples and a lively waterfront. The catch is limited English and infrequent transport connections, requiring patience and flexibility to explore properly.

✈️ When did I visit Indonesia?
As part of my 1.5 year travel around the world trip, I visited Indonesia twice (and it was worth it): first in September 2015 and a bit later again in January and February 2016.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Indonesia, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.



🙋‍♂️ Give feedback

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past 3 decades, I’ve backpacked through 90+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story