Betung Kerihun National Park

Majestic Landscapes and Dramatic Topography

The main characteristic of Taman Nasional Betung Kerihun lies in its undulating topography, dominated by hills and mountains. The name of the area itself is taken from two iconic mountains, namely Mount Betung in the west and Mount Kerihun in the east. Mount Kerihun, soaring 1,790 meters above sea level, is the highest point offering a panorama of endless green expanse.

Besides mountains, TNBK is crisscrossed by hundreds of clear tributaries. There are five main river basins (DAS) flowing in this area: DAS Embaloh, DAS Sibau, DAS Mendalam, DAS Kapuas, and DAS Bungan. These rivers are not only vital transportation arteries for the local community but also create exotic landscapes of challenging rapids and hidden waterfalls. One of the most amazing is Tumpan Waterfall in DAS Sibau, which offers a serene atmosphere amidst the dense tropical rainforest.

Complex Ecosystems and Rich Biodiversity

TNBK is home to eight different types of forest ecosystems, ranging from lowland forests, swamp forests, to high mountain forests (mossy forests). The floral diversity here is extraordinary, with the dominance of the Dipterocarpaceae family (meranti and keruing wood) and hundreds of rare wild orchid species.

In terms of fauna, Betung Kerihun is the last refuge for many endemic species of Borneo. This area is an important habitat for the Bornean Orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus), especially in the sub-DAS Mendalam and DAS Embaloh. Besides orangutans, lucky visitors may encounter Bornean Gibbons, Sun Bears, and Clouded Leopards. For birdwatchers, TNBK is a paradise as it is inhabited by over 300 bird species, including the Rhinoceros Hornbill, which is the symbol of West Kalimantan. In its swift rivers, live arowana fish and mahseer fish (sacred fish) highly valued by the local population.

Outdoor Activities and Cultural Experiences

Visiting Betung Kerihun is about testing your adrenaline while connecting with nature. Some of the main activities that can be done include:

1. Longboat River Expeditions: This is the best way to enjoy the beauty of TNBK. Navigating the swift river rapids requires special skills from local boatmen. The experience of cutting through clear river waters with giant trees leaning towards the river creates an unforgettable sense of adventure.

2. Jungle Trekking and Primate Observation: The trekking trails in TNBK offer varied physical challenges. Trails around DAS Mendalam are often used for primate and bird observation in their natural habitat.

3. Dayak Cultural Tourism: The uniqueness of TNBK is inseparable from the presence of the Dayak people (such as Dayak Iban, Dayak Taman, and Dayak Bukat) who live in harmony with the forest. Tourists can visit Rumah Betang (longhouses) to see traditional handicrafts, customary ceremonies, and understand local wisdom in forest conservation.

4. Caving: The area has interesting karst formations with many unexplored natural caves, offering opportunities for researchers and nature lovers to discover underground wonders.

Conservation Status and Environmental Protection

As a National Park, Betung Kerihun has a strict legal protection status to preserve its ecosystem from the threats of illegal logging and poaching. The management of this area prioritizes the principle of ecotourism, where tourist visits are directed to help the local economy without damaging the natural structure. TNBK is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site (as part of the Transborder Rainforest Heritage of Borneo), emphasizing the importance of cross-border cooperation in preserving global biodiversity.

Best Time to Visit and Seasonal Variations

The best time to visit Taman Nasional Betung Kerihun is during the Dry Season (June to September). During this period, rainfall is relatively low, making hiking trails less slippery and river water levels stable for boat navigation.

However, visiting during the transition seasons also has its own charm as the rivers will appear more majestic with strong currents, although the risk of thunderstorms must be watched out for. Conversely, during extreme dry seasons, some parts of the river may become too shallow, requiring boats to be manually pulled by the crew (karam).

Accessibility and Facilities

Reaching Betung Kerihun requires thorough physical and logistical preparation. The main entrance is through Putussibau City, the capital of Kapuas Hulu Regency.

• Transportation: From Pontianak, you can take a one-hour flight or a 12-14 hour land journey to Putussibau. From Putussibau, the journey continues by motorboat (longboat or speed boat) to the park entrance in the respective river basins, which takes between 3 to 8 hours depending on the destination.
• Facilities: Given its very remote location, facilities within the area are still very limited. There are several guard posts and research shelters that can be used for camping. It is recommended for tourists to bring their own camping gear and hire local guides and porters from the local community to ensure safety and comfort during the expedition.

Taman Nasional Betung Kerihun is not just a tourist destination; it is a journey back to the origins of nature. By respecting conservation rules and local wisdom, your visit here will be a real contribution to the preservation of one of the most precious rainforests on Earth.