South Kalimantan, Province of Indonesia on Borneo Island.
South Kalimantan is a province in the southern part of Borneo in Indonesia with Banjarbaru as its capital and Banjarmasin as its largest city. The province covers tropical lowlands and is crossed by rivers that connect settlements with each other.
The region stood under the rule of local sultanates for centuries until the Dutch took control in the 19th century. After Japanese occupation during World War II, it was established as an independent province in 1950.
The Banjarese population lives along the rivers and uses traditional floating markets for daily trading of fresh vegetables, fish and handmade goods. Wooden boats serve as stalls while buyers negotiate and shop from the shore or from their own boats.
The province is best reached through Banjarmasin, which has an airport and ferry connections. Rivers play an important role in local transport, with local boats being used frequently.
Diamond mining has been practiced in Martapura for centuries, and local craftsmen still work the gemstones using traditional techniques today. Visitors can tour workshops and watch how the stones are cut and polished.
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