Cempaka Traditional Diamond Mining
Pendulangan Intan Cempaka
A traditional open-pit diamond mine on the outskirts of Banjarbaru, where miners wash for diamonds and gold by hand in muddy pits using wooden pans.
The alluvial deposits around Cempaka have yielded diamonds since ancient times. Miners still use high-pressure hoses to break up the mud layers, then spin wooden round pans in the water to sift for diamonds, gold and gemstone rough. The scene is unique and gruelling. Historically, the 166-carat Trisakti diamond was unearthed here. The mine is about 45 km from Banjarmasin and is usually combined with the Martapura diamond market in one day trip. The pits are muddy, so wear shoes you don't mind getting dirty. Ask the miners' permission before taking photos, and you may give a small tip.
Opening hours
Daytime (miners' working hours vary)
Nearby sights
- Lambung Mangkurat Museum
- Martapura Diamond Market
- Al-Karomah Grand Mosque
- Tomb of Datu Kelampayan
- Lok Baintan Floating Market
- Soto Bang Amat
- Bekantan Statue
- Wasaka Museum