Top 2 Bars & Entertainment Spots in Pangkalan Bun and Tanjung Puting National Park area

Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Budi Santoso
17/08/2025
Tanjung Puting National Park (Central Kalimantan, Central Borneo, Indonesia)
Jorge Franganillo, Wikimedia Commons

Pangkalan Bun and the Tanjung Puting National Park area do not offer a vibrant bar or nightlife scene. Socializing and opportunities for a drink are primarily found aboard the 'Klotok' houseboats during orangutan tours or within a few hotel establishments.

Entertainment and Music:

The local music and entertainment scene in Pangkalan Bun and Tanjung Puting National Park is understated, with the focus remaining on natural experiences rather than dedicated nightlife.

Formal live music venues or music-oriented bars are not a prominent feature of Pangkalan Bun or Tanjung Puting National Park, based on available information. Visitors typically find their evening entertainment through the immersive natural environment of the national park, such as observing fireflies during river cruises.

1. Klotok Houseboats (Tanjung Puting National Park)

Type: Liveaboard Tour Vessel / Social Hub

While exploring Tanjung Puting National Park, the multi-day 'Klotok' river cruises serve as the main social environment. These traditional houseboats provide sleeping quarters, meals, and a communal space for travelers to interact. Alcoholic beverages, typically beer, can often be arranged and enjoyed on board if requested in advance from your tour operator. The atmosphere is relaxed, centered around wildlife viewing and shared experiences under the rainforest canopy or starlit sky.

Getting There: Access to Klotok houseboats is typically part of an organized tour originating from Kumai Port, which is approximately a 15-20 minute drive from Pangkalan Bun. Most tour operators will arrange transfers from Pangkalan Bun airport or your accommodation to the port. Costs are usually included in the overall tour package.

2. Mercure Pangkalan Bun (Bar/Restaurant)

Type: Hotel Bar / Restaurant

Located in Pangkalan Bun, the Mercure Pangkalan Bun offers a more conventional setting for those seeking a drink. As a newer hotel, it provides a comfortable and professional atmosphere. The hotel's restaurant or designated bar area may serve alcoholic beverages, offering a quiet place to unwind after exploring the city or before/after a national park tour.

Getting There: The Mercure Pangkalan Bun is situated within Pangkalan Bun city. It is easily accessible by taxi or ride-hailing services from most points in Pangkalan Bun, including the airport. Taxi fares within Pangkalan Bun would be relatively inexpensive, typically ranging from IDR 20,000 - 50,000, depending on distance.

Check out our other pages on Pangkalan Bun and Tanjung Puting National Park area

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