West Kutai

West Kutai is an administrative regency in East Kalimantan with diverse landscapes of forests and rivers spread across its territory. The region sits at about 38 meters (125 feet) above sea level and encompasses sixteen administrative districts.

The region was created in 1999 when Kutai territory was divided, and experienced another administrative split in 2013. This later change resulted in the formation of the separate Mahakam Ulu Regency.

The Dayak and Kutai communities shape daily life here through their craftsmanship and riverside settlements along the Mahakam River. You can see how their traditions continue in the way people build houses over water and gather in villages.

River routes form the main transportation network, with boats serving as the primary way to move between communities. Plan for longer travel times when moving around the region, as water-based journeys take considerably more time than land routes.

The administrative center of Sendawar coordinates activities across nearly 200 villages scattered across this forested landscape. Despite its vast size, the region remains sparsely populated and shaped by its natural environment.

Location: East Kalimantan

Capital city: Sendawar

Elevation above the sea: 38 m

Shares border with: Kutai Kartanegara, North Paser of Penajam, Paser, North Barito, Mahakam Ulu

Website: http://kutaibaratkab.go.id

GPS coordinates: -0.59417,115.51575

Latest update: December 20, 2025 11:32