Martapura

Martapura is a town in South Kalimantan, serving as the capital of Banjar regency.

Martapura is famous for its gemstones. It has a strong Islamic flavor. The city is about 1 hour drive from Banjarmasin and only 15 minutes from Banjarbaru.

There are plenty of intercity minivans (taksi antarkota, orange-coloured minivans) from Banjarmasin, and vice versa.

Hire car with driver.

Taksi kota is a minivan with green color. The route is from Martapura to Liang Anggang, via Banjarbaru and vice versa. You can hail and stop it anywhere along the routes. The fare is based on how far you travel. To hail and to stop a taksi kota, just raise your hand and they will stop. When you're inside and want to stop, just say 'kiri' (key-ree) or simply 'stop' out loud. You need to know the place you want to go. Make sure you have exact money to pay the taksi kota, handout to the driver when you get to your destination. Usually taksi kota drivers don't speak English.

Becaks (rickshaw or pedicab) are scattered around the Martapura's main market. It's a good choice for a short ride but you have to be good negotiator if you want to ride on becak, fare depending on the destination (near or far). Usually becak drivers don't speak English.

• Gemstones and souvenirs at Cahaya Bumi Selamat shopping center.

• Traditional cakes at Martapura's main market.