Top Tourist Attractions Around IKN

The Indonesian Independence Day celebration on August 17, 2024, is set to be a historic event, marking the first time it’s held in the newly designated Capital City of the Archipelago, known as Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN).

IKN reflects its role as the new heart of the nation, symbolizing Indonesia’s rich diversity and unity. Beyond serving as the new center of government, the area surrounding IKN is home to breathtaking natural beauty that remains largely undiscovered. This region is filled with hidden gems just waiting to be explored.

If you’re planning to visit IKN, be sure to take advantage of the opportunity to explore the diverse tourist attractions in the area. The region offers a rich mix of stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cultural experiences, from serene waterfalls to dense tropical forests. Here are some top recommendations for must-visit tourist spots around IKN.

Explore These Spots Near IKN

IKN Kilometer Zero

No visit to IKN would be complete without stopping by Kilometer Zero, the starting point of Indonesia’s new capital city. Established in February 2022, this monument marks the beginning of the development of Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN).

The small plaza here holds a unique feature: it contains soil and water from all 34 provinces in Indonesia, symbolizing the nation’s unity through the Bhinneka Tunggal Ika philosophy, which celebrates diversity.

IKN Glamping

If you’ve ever seen the iconic photo of President Joko Widodo camping in the IKN area, this is where it was taken. The glamping site is nestled behind the presidential palace, perched on a hill.

Surrounded by shady trees, it offers a direct view of the national axis. The atmosphere here is refreshingly cool, with plenty of breeze and a more relaxed vibe compared to IKN Kilometer Zero, making it an ideal spot for a serene escape.

Tembinus Waterfall

Nestled within a pristine conservation forest in Sepaku District, Penajam Paser Utara Regency, Tembinus Waterfall is a breathtaking natural wonder. With a 20-meter-high cascade, this waterfall offers stunning views and a refreshing escape.

It’s about a 90-minute drive from IKN Kilometer Zero. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the serene beauty of the area, surrounded by lush vegetation and the invigorating freshness of the air.

Bangkirai Hill

A 75-minute drive from IKN, located in Kutai Kartanegara Regency, Bangkirai Hill is a must-visit for nature lovers. This hill offers panoramic views of a vibrant tropical forest.

The highlight here is the Canopy Bridge, a 50-meter-long wooden structure that connects five towering bangkirai trees. Walking across this bridge, high above the forest floor, provides a thrilling experience for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the heart of nature.

Mangrove Forest and Mentawir Tourism Village

Situated in Sepaku District, about a 75-minute drive from IKN, Mentawir Tourism Village offers a rich ecotourism experience. Here, you can enjoy a variety of activities, including rafting on the Mentawir River, strolling through a bamboo forest, or exploring the expansive 300-hectare mangrove and tropical forests.

This village also serves as an important source of income for locals, who produce unique products from mangrove fruit, such as syrup, dodol, and even a cooling powder that’s said to be a traditional beauty secret.

Mount Parung

Mount Parung, the highest peak within IKN, rises to about 1,200 meters above sea level. Located in Penajam Paser Utara Regency, this mountain offers stunning views of lush forests, rivers, lakes, and Balikpapan Bay.

Just an hour’s drive from IKN Kilometer Zero, Mount Parung is home to a rich variety of endemic flora and fauna, including bengkirai and meranti trees, orangutans, monkeys, and numerous bird species.

Batu Tapak Raja Cave

Batu Tapak Raja Cave is about 30 kilometers from IKN Kilometer Zero, roughly an hour’s drive away. Situated in Wonosari Village, Sepaku District, Penajam Paser Utara Regency, this cave was reportedly discovered in 1983.

Surrounded by dense trees, it’s a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and history lovers alike. The government has recently improved access to the cave, making it easier to visit.

Tanah Merah Beach, Tanjung Harapan

Tanah Merah Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in East Kalimantan. Lined with rows of pine trees, this beach offers a tranquil setting to relax, listen to the waves, and enjoy stunning sunsets. It’s located on the eastern coast of Kalimantan, about a two-hour drive from IKN.

Bukit Soeharto Forest Park

Once a coal mining area, Bukit Soeharto has been transformed into a thriving habitat for diverse flora and fauna, including orangutans and sun bears.

It also serves as an environmental education and training center managed by Mulawarman University. Travelers heading to IKN from Balikpapan often pass through Bukit Soeharto, making it a convenient stop to appreciate the area’s natural beauty.

Explore IKN Tourism with Balikpapan Car Rental from TRAC

Due to the lack of lodging around Penajam Paser Utara Regency, usually visits to IKN will start from Balikpapan. Make sure you use a Balikpapan car rental from TRAC to explore the tour there. 

TRAC can always be the right choice in all activities, both business and tourism. There are two services to choose from, namely keyless car rental or with a driver. 

Easily book a car rental Balikpapan on the homepage of the TRAC website or the TRACtoGo application. Download the application on Google Playstore or Apple Appstore.

With the TRACtoGo application, you can determine your own unit delivery location, duration of use, usage time, and freedom to choose the type of fleet you want.

Stay connected with TRAC on social media for travel tips and promotions. Follow them on Instagram at @trac_astra, on Facebook at TRAC-Astra Rent a Car, and on Twitter (X) at @TRACastra to get updates on exciting destinations and special deals.

Whatever the track, just use TRAC!