10 Things to Do in Balikpapan Night Market, Indonesia
Balikpapan, the capital of East Kalimantan province in Indonesia, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. It is home to a bustling night market, which is a great spot for visitors to explore and experience the local culture and cuisine. From delicious street food to unique souvenirs, here are 10 things to do in Balikpapan Night Market.
1. Sample Local Street Food
The Balikpapan Night Market is a great place to sample some of the local street food. From savory satay to sweet desserts, there is something for everyone. Be sure to try the sate kambing (goat satay), which is one of the most popular dishes. Other local favorites include bakso (meatball soup), nasi goreng (fried rice), and gado-gado (mixed vegetables with peanut sauce).
2. Shop for Souvenirs
The Balikpapan Night Market is the perfect place to find unique souvenirs. From handmade jewelry to traditional crafts, you can find a wide variety of items to take home with you. Be sure to check out the stalls selling batik fabric, which is a traditional Indonesian textile. You can also find a selection of spices, teas, and other food items to take home with you.
3. Enjoy Live Music
The night market is a great place to experience some of the local music. You can find various live bands performing a variety of genres, from traditional Indonesian music to jazz and rock. Be sure to check out the local musicians and join in the fun.
4. Check Out the Local Art Scene
The Balikpapan Night Market is also a great place to experience the local art scene. There are a variety of stalls selling handmade crafts and artwork, from paintings to sculptures. You can also find a selection of unique souvenirs and gifts to take home with you.
5. Visit the Food Stalls
The Balikpapan Night Market is home to a variety of food stalls, serving up delicious local dishes. From freshly made noodles to savory grilled meats, there is something for everyone. Be sure to check out the stalls selling traditional Indonesian dishes, such as nasi goreng (fried rice) and soto ayam (chicken soup).
6. Explore the Local Markets
The Balikpapan Night Market is also a great place to explore the local markets. You can find a variety of stalls selling fresh produce, spices, and other food items. Be sure to check out the stalls selling traditional Indonesian snacks, such as kue lapis (layered cake) and pisang goreng (fried bananas).
7. Enjoy the Local Drinks
The Balikpapan Night Market is a great place to sample some of the local drinks. From fresh fruit juices to traditional teas, there is something for everyone. Be sure to check out the stalls selling local beers and spirits, such as arak (rice wine) and tuak (palm wine).
8. Try the Local Desserts
The Balikpapan Night Market is also a great place to sample some of the local desserts. From sweet pancakes to traditional cakes, there is something for everyone. Be sure to try the popular es cendol (coconut milk and pandan jelly), which is a traditional Indonesian dessert.
9. Take Part in a Cooking Class
The Balikpapan Night Market is a great place to take part in a cooking class. From traditional Indonesian dishes to international cuisines, there are a variety of classes to choose from. Be sure to check out the classes offered by the local cooks, which will teach you how to make some of the local dishes.
10. Relax and Unwind
The Balikpapan Night Market is also a great place to relax and unwind. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants offering a range of local and international dishes. Be sure to check out the outdoor seating areas, where you can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the atmosphere.