Gajah Baliku Traditional House of Banjar Regency, South Kalimantan - Indonesia

What can tourists do to learn the culture of a particular region? Aside from witnessing local traditions and dances, they can simply explore a traditional house. In Banjar Regency Indonesia, for example, there is Gajah Baliku Traditional House. In terms of appearance, it is similar to Bubungan Tinggi. One thing that makes it different is the inexistence of tiered floor on its exterior. Also, there is no Sengkuap roof. Instead, this house features Gajah roof or a shield-shaped roof. With such characteristics, tourists are interested to learn more about the house and explore it thoroughly.

The Nuance
At a glance, Gajah Baliku Traditional House looks like a regular house. However, it has an aesthetic value and becomes a better object of photography. The house is made of woods and it doesn’t feature any modern materials. In fact, its exterior part doesn’t have any paint on it. That means the house looks archaic and unique. In terms of ornaments, the owner of the house usually grows small plants near to the house. Inside, tourists may find several traditional ornaments of South Kalimantan Province sometimes.

Exploring the House
It is fun to explore a traditional house like Gajah Baliku, isn’t it? The only problem is that tourists need to give more efforts to witness it. It is because many houses have become extinct due to old age and other reasons. Only a few of them remain, so it is a little bit hard to find the location. One of them is located in Teluk Selong Ulu Village, West Martapura Sub-District. It is perhaps the most recommended location to witness and explore the house for tourists. In terms of age, the house has been there more than 150 years!

After arriving at the site, tourists need to approach the owner first. It is to decide whether they are allowed to get in and explore the building or not. Have no worries. The owner is friendly so she is likely to allow tourists to enter the house. Inside, lots of old furniture resides including Malawin plates, jars, brass basin, paintings, ancient luggage, and many others. It is a little bit surprising that some modern appliances are also seen there including TV, gas stove, DVD player, etc.

In terms of structure, the house is made of ironwood. It looks sturdy despite the age, though. When entering the terrace, tourists may see the main door ornamented with beautiful carvings. Inside, the living room is spacious and it features old furniture as well. On the wall, many photos of the residents are hung. One thing, make sure to get accompanied by the owner when exploring the house.

Nearby Attractions

• Prince Muhammad’s Tomb
• Albasia Park
• Zalecha Square
• Pelangi Village
• Lentera Hill
• Selamat Datang Monument
• Bincau Fishing Pond
• Gemstone Craft Center
• Embroidery Crafts Center

How to Get There
From Martapura City in Indonesia, tourists should head to the closest village. It may take about 25 minutes, as the distance is around 7 km. For a faster trip, it is recommended to take Melati Street. As for the tour guide service, tourists can either take it or not. Somehow, such service helps them to acquire information better regarding the house.

Where to Stay

• Raudhatul Husna Hotel
• Yudilesmana Hotel
• Lerina Inn
• Riawahyudi Hotel
• Ratu Elok Hotel
• Diah Hotel