Pengaron Dutch (Buaya) Cave in Banjar Regency, South Kalimantan - Indonesia

It seems not all tourists know that Banjar Regency also holds an interesting history. The fact is that the region owns several interesting historical sites for tourists to explore. One of them is located in Pengaron Sub-District called Pengaron Dutch (Buaya) Cave. As the name suggests, the cave once was used by the Dutch Army during the WWII. Aside from the historical value, the site has lured lots of tourists over time. These people come to the location to witness the unique shape of the cave as well as to explore it!

The Nuance
“Buaya” means crocodile, actually. It is because the mouth of the cave is quite small, which is similar to a crocodile hole. Not to mention the nuance is quite dark and damp inside. Various plants and trees also grow near to the cave, adding shady atmosphere to the site. According to the locals, the Dutch used the cave for mining back then. It was called Putaran Hole in the past, in fact. With such interesting history and landscape, lots of tourists decide to come to the site and explore it thoroughly.

Exploring Pengaron Dutch (Buaya) Cave
Many types of activities can be done once tourists arrive at Pengaron Japanese Cave. For example, they can start gathering information and history regarding the cave. In this case, the best informant will be either the villagers or a tour guide. As mentioned before, the cave was once used by the Dutch Army during the World War II. It has the width of 1.8 meters and the length of 144 meters, actually. There are multiple hallways, though. It is said the whole width of the cave including the hallways is about 550 meters.

The Dutch used the cave as a telecommunication radio station during the war. Later, after the independence of Indonesia, the local heroes used the cave as the weapon storage. The good thing is that tourists can find another cave, located about 600 meters apart from the site. This one was built by the Japanese Army though. No wonder, tourists would conduct trekking to this cave after exploring the first one. The location is near to each other, after all.

For first-timers, it is better to visit the cave accompanied by a local guide. The first reason is that the route is a little bit challenging for beginners. Another reason is that the guests should pass through Djuanda Forest Gate in order to reach the cave. The guide also helps tourists to enter the cave safely and more efficiently later. Therefore, do not overlook the importance of this service.

Nearby Attractions

• Biru Lake
• Pengaron Fort
• Buluan Hill
• Simpang Empat Lake

How to Get There
From Martapura City, tourists’ first destination is Pengaron Sub-District. Later, they can ask the locals regarding the location of the cave. The whole trip may take about 1 hour and 15 minutes, as the distance is 46.3 km. It would be faster if they take Ahmad Yani Street, though.

Where to Stay

• Mess Family Inn
• HRVRT Water Inn
• Shangrilla Hotel