Is there a direct flight?

No, currently all flights from Balikpapan to Palangkaraya require a transit in Jakarta or Surabaya.

How long is the bus ride?

The bus journey typically takes between 24 to 30 hours depending on road conditions and traffic.

Which bus company is best?

PO Pulau Indah Jaya is widely considered the most reliable operator for long-distance Kalimantan routes.

The Trans-Kalimantan Highway is mostly paved, but sections can be damaged during the rainy season.

What is the best airport?

Tjilik Riwut Airport (PKY) is the primary gateway for reaching Palangkaraya.

Balikpapan

Palangkaraya

Bus Flight

Balikpapan to Palangkaraya

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Balikpapan to Palangkaraya requires crossing the vast interior of Borneo. The most efficient method is a connecting flight via Jakarta or Surabaya, as direct flights are rare. Alternatively, you can take a long-haul bus journey across the Trans-Kalimantan Highway. The distance is significant, spanning dense rainforests and river systems. Expect a journey that highlights the rugged geography of the island.

Total Distance: Driving distance 1,100 km, straight-line air distance 550 km.

Fastest Way

Flight via connecting hubs is the fastest, taking roughly 5.5 hours including layovers.

Cheapest Way

Bus travel is the cheapest option, costing approximately IDR 750,000 for the full cross-island route.

Compare Balikpapan to Palangkaraya Routes

	Bus Direct	Flight Connecting
Duration	28 hours	5 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	IDR 600,000 - 900,000	IDR 1,800,000 - 3,500,000
Operator	PO Pulau Indah Jaya	Lion Air or Citilink
Route	Trans-Kalimantan Highway via Banjarmasin	SAMS Sepinggan Airport (BPN) to Tjilik Riwut Airport (PKY)
Tip	Prepare for a very long journey; bring snacks and a neck pillow for the overnight sections.	Book your connecting flight through Surabaya (SUB) for the shortest layover time.

Travel Tips

Flight Layovers
Always check your baggage allowance, as connecting flights often involve different airline policies.
Bus Comfort
Choose executive class buses for reclining seats and better air conditioning on the long Kalimantan roads.
Hydration
Carry extra bottled water, as remote stretches of the Trans-Kalimantan Highway have limited convenience stores.
Local Currency
Keep cash in small denominations for rest stops and food stalls along the bus route.
Connectivity
Telkomsel offers the most reliable signal coverage in the remote interior regions of Borneo.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
Avoid night travel on the Trans-Kalimantan Highway due to limited lighting and heavy truck traffic.
Health
Carry mosquito repellent, as malaria and dengue are risks in forested areas of Kalimantan.
Emergency
Save the contact numbers for local police stations in major towns along your route.
Valuables
Keep your passport and cash in a secure money belt while traveling on public buses.