Wisata Ikon Jelawat

On the banks of the picturesque Mentaya River sits one of the most recognizable landmarks that Sampit has gifted to travelers. We are talking about the famous Jelawat Fish Icon Park—a well-maintained public space that has become the symbol and heart of the region. At the center of this location stands an impressive monument to the Jelawat fish, which is the official mascot of the city and reflects the richness of the local nature.

Jelawat Icon Park. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Located in Indonesia, this site harmoniously combines features of modern urban architecture with the traditional flavor of Central Kalimantan province. The massive fish-shaped stele against the backdrop of surrounding buildings and open water creates a unique cityscape that attracts thousands of tourists and locals.

Jelawat Fish Icon Park is not just an architectural structure, but a vibrant waterfront where you can feel the breath of the river and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Thanks to its high rating and strategic location in the city center, this place is deservedly considered the main point of attraction for anyone wanting to get to know the identity of Sampit.

For your convenience, below are the current contact details for the attraction to help you plan your visit and quickly find it on the city map.

The main activity for park guests is a leisurely stroll along the promenade, which offers breathtaking views of the Mentaya River. Here, you can spend hours watching the movement of ships and the daily activities of locals on the water. Be sure to take a few photos by the giant fish statue—it's a traditional ritual for every tourist visiting these parts.

For those looking for more active experiences, small boats depart from the Habari Hurung pier located nearby. A short river safari will allow you to see the city from a new perspective and get closer to the natural landscapes of Kalimantan. This is an affordable and exciting adventure that is especially popular with families with children.

In the evening, the atmosphere in the park changes: the tropical heat subsides, and decorative lighting turns on. This is the perfect time for relaxation, watching the sunset, and tasting local snacks often offered by nearby street vendors. The park space is ideal for feeling the friendly rhythm of Indonesian life in the company of friends or loved ones.

Thanks to its location in the heart of the city, getting to the waterfront is easy. Jelawat Fish Icon Park is located at Jl. Ahmad Yani No.8, just a few minutes' walk from the main shopping streets and markets. If you are arriving in the region by plane, the journey from Sampit Airport (Tulak Bawang Airport), located about 15–20 km away, will take approximately 20–30 minutes by taxi.

To get around the city itself, tourists most often use online taxi services like Grab or Gojek, as well as colorful local motorbikes. If you prefer public transport, you can use the mini-buses (antar-jemput) that run through the central districts. For those who want to make a grand entrance, there is an option to rent a boat from the piers on the Mentaya River and moor right at the foot of the monument.

The official opening of this landmark took place on February 21, 2015. The monument was built on the initiative of local authorities and officially inaugurated by the regent, becoming a central element of the city's tourism infrastructure. The main idea was to create a site that would reflect the unique identity of the region and its deep connection to its water resources.

The star of the monument is the Jelawat fish (Tortobrama hasseltii). This fish species has historically inhabited the waters of the Mentaya River and has played an important role in the lives of local residents for centuries as a symbol of abundance and prosperity. Today, the image of the Jelawat is officially recognized as the mascot of the East Kotawaringin Regency.

The construction of the park on the banks of the Mentaya River also carried significant urban development importance. It allowed for the integration of modern architectural solutions with the historical face of the city, creating a harmonious space where modernity meets tradition. Since its inception, the park has become more than just a point on the map; it is a true symbol of Sampit, bringing together residents and visitors alike.

For a standard tour of the park and a walk along the promenade, most visitors need between 1.5 and 2.5 hours. This is plenty of time to leisurely examine the details of the huge monument, take commemorative photos, and enjoy the panoramic views of the Mentaya River.

If you plan to complement your visit with a river boat trip, it's worth setting aside a bit more time—around 3-4 hours. Many tourists prefer to come here closer to evening to catch a beautiful sunset and see the evening illumination turn the park into a cozy place for relaxation.

The park's gates are open to visitors daily from 06:00 to 00:00, with no days off. This allows guests to plan their visit for an early morning walk when it's still cool on the river, or for a late evening out under the artificial lights.

As the official schedule may change depending on city events or national holidays, it is recommended to check for current information on the local tourism website or with your hotel administration before visiting.

A walk around the Jelawat Fish Icon Park will allow you to better experience the atmosphere of Sampit and see the city from different perspectives. The park's central location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring nearby interesting sites.