Ekowisata Mangrove Desa Paduran

Exploring the Green Trails of Ekowisata Mangrove Desa Paduran: A Coastal Gem of Pulang Pisau

Central Kalimantan Province is often associated with dense tropical rainforests and vast peat ecosystems. However, beyond the lush interiors lies a stunning coastal charm in Pulang Pisau Regency, specifically in Desa Paduran Sebangau. This destination is known as Ekowisata Mangrove Desa Paduran, a community-based conservation area offering a blend of environmental education, marine natural beauty, and authentic mangrove forest tranquility.

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Landscape and Ecosystem Characteristics

Ekowisata Mangrove Desa Paduran is situated at a river mouth directly bordering the Java Sea. Unlike the mountains or waterfalls that dominate Kalimantan's northern regions, this destination presents a flat landscape dominated by brackish waters and a green belt of mangrove vegetation. The main characteristic of this area is its soil structure, a combination of river mud deposits and beach sand, creating an ideal habitat for various mangrove species.

As far as the eye can see, visitors are greeted by dense vegetation dominated by species of Rhizophora (red mangrove), Avicennia (grey mangrove), and Sonneratia (apple mangrove). The mangrove forest here functions as a natural barrier against sea erosion and serves as a natural filter that maintains water quality around Desa Paduran. Its visual uniqueness lies in the pneumatophores (aerial roots) that emerge from the mud surface during low tide, creating an artistic and exotic natural labyrinth.

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Preserved Biodiversity Richness

As a transitional ecosystem between land and sea, Ekowisata Mangrove Desa Paduran is home to extraordinary biodiversity. Beneath the mangrove roots, this ecosystem serves as a natural spawning ground for various types of fish, mud crabs, and tiger prawns, which are the main commodities for local fishermen.

For birdwatchers, this area is a hidden paradise. Various species of water birds and migratory birds are often seen foraging among the trees. If lucky, visitors might catch a glimpse of long-tailed macaques or even Proboscis Monkeys (Nasalis larvatus), an endemic primate of Kalimantan that occasionally appears on the mangrove treetops. The chirping of birds harmonizing with the sound of crashing waves creates a natural symphony rarely found in urban areas.

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Outdoor Activities and Tourist Experience

Ekowisata Mangrove Desa Paduran is designed to provide an immersive experience for nature lovers. One of its main attractions is trekking along the wooden boardwalk that cuts through the dense mangrove forest. Walking on this bridge allows visitors to enter the heart of the forest without damaging the mud ecosystem below.

Another highly sought-after activity is exploring the river by kelotok (motorized boat) or traditional sampan owned by the locals. By boat, visitors can see the outer side of the mangrove forest bordering the open sea. For anglers, there are designated spots permitted for fishing for snapper or crabs, offering the sensation of traditional seafood harvesting.

Furthermore, Desa Paduran also offers an educational tourism experience. Visitors can learn firsthand about the mangrove seedling process, how to plant seedlings in rehabilitation areas, and understand the economic benefits of mangroves for the local community through the processing of apple mangrove fruits into syrup or jam.

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Best Time to Visit

To get the best experience, the timing of your visit greatly depends on the tidal cycle. A visit in the morning around 08:00 to 10:00 WIB is highly recommended to enjoy fresh air and a greater chance of spotting wildlife.

Seasonally, April to October (dry season) is the ideal time as the access roads to the location tend to be drier and the weather is clearer for outdoor activities. However, visiting during the transition season also offers its own uniqueness, where the green color of the mangrove forest appears richer and fresher due to sufficient rainfall. Avoid visiting during extreme weather or strong winds, as this location is very exposed to sea wind influences.

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Conservation and Environmental Protection

The status of Ekowisata Mangrove Desa Paduran is not merely a recreational spot but a conservation area managed collaboratively between the village government, the tourism awareness group (Pokdarwis), and environmental organizations. The community of Desa Paduran has a high awareness of protecting the mangrove forest, recognizing its function as a protector of the village from sea wave threats and a supporter of fishermen's livelihoods.

Environmental protection efforts here are very strict, including a ban on discarding plastic waste into the forest area and limiting visitor numbers in sensitive zones. Regular reforestation programs are carried out to ensure that damaged areas recover, making this destination a successful example of community-based forest management in Central Kalimantan.

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Accessibility and Supporting Facilities

Reaching Ekowisata Mangrove Desa Paduran requires a land journey from the center of Pulang Pisau city, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on weather conditions. Despite being in a rather remote location, the road access to Desa Paduran is continuously being improved to facilitate tourists.

Currently available facilities include a representative wooden boardwalk, a viewing tower to see the scenery from above, and several gazebos or huts for resting. Basic facilities such as toilets and parking areas are also available. For dining, visitors can enjoy coastal specialties at local stalls serving fresh seafood with authentic local seasonings.

Ekowisata Mangrove Desa Paduran is a destination that offers tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of the modern world. It invites us to re-appreciate the relationship between humans and nature, while also making a tangible contribution to the preservation of the environment on the coast of Central Kalimantan. Visiting this place is not just about enjoying the scenery, but also celebrating the sustainability of an ecosystem that serves as the lungs of the earth.