KALIMANTAN
THE LAND OF DAYAK  WILDMAN OF BORNEO 

 

Dense jungle and steaming swamps, headhunters and riverboats - part of the image of  Dayak people, many exotic and often frightening images are traditionally associated  with Kalimantan  Island - the Island of Diamond.
Geologically - Borneo is one of the oldest islands in the Indonesian archipelago,unlike most other Indonesian Islands Borneo has no volcanoes, and all together Borneo has a land area of 743.000 sq kms.
The Dayak people have remarkably vibrant and graphic sense of design and crafted adorned with geometric patterns ,anthropomorphic and stylized animal designed for the most part and they also famed for their beadwork and basketry, thousands of tiny glass beads are used to decorate purses,tobacco pouches, scabbards, baby carriers, basket lids, caps and headbands.As`the centre of the Indonesian ``  gemstone`` trade, Banjarmasin is the place to buy semi precious stones such as amethysts,sapphires and agates. Diamonds are also abundant, though these are best purchased near by Martapura.
A journey into Dayak country is an unforgettable experience, travellers can stay at the long house,marvel at the beadwork and woodcarving, study the religious rituals, meet a ``wadian``(shaman) and perhaps even join in traditional dance.
The Dayak`s also consider `tattoos` attractive. Tatoo designs are initially stamped on the body with handmade wooden block, and the design convey the social rank or status.
Dayak woman wearing large ,heavily silver earrings in their pierced  earlobes , more rings are added with age,is common to see middle aged Dayak woman with earlobes extended as low as her shoulder or chest.

Let's join us and explore Kalimantan - the Orang utan National Park!