Discover the uniqueness of Pontianak’s Equator Park, an educational tourist spot with information about the equator and complete facilities for visitors.
Pontianak, known as the Equator City, has an educational tourist destination that is a shame to miss, namely the Pontianak Equator Park.
Located right on the equator, this park not only offers beautiful views, but also presents scientific and historical information about the natural phenomenon of the equator, which divides the earth into the northern and southern hemispheres.
In addition to offering interesting education, Taman Khatulistiwa is equipped with various facilities for the convenience of tourists.
With its diverse attractions, this park is suitable as a tourist destination for families and friends. Here is a more detailed review of what you can find at Taman Khatulistiwa Pontianak.
A Brief History of Pontianak’s Equator Park
Among the many Things to do in Pontianak, visiting Pontianak’s Equator Park is a highlight. The development of this park began in 1928 when the Dutch colonial government established the Equator Monument as a symbol of Pontianak’s geographical location, right on the equator.
Initially, the monument stood on the banks of the Kapuas River but was later moved to a more strategic location on Jalan Tanjungpura.
In addition to being an astronomical marker, this monument was also built to explore phenomena related to the equator, an imaginary line that separates the northern and southern hemispheres.
Interestingly, of the 14 countries crossed by this line, only Pontianak is directly above it, making this monument an important symbol for the city.
Equator Park has not just one, but two monuments as markers of zero degrees latitude. The smaller original monument is inside the main building, while the larger replica monument stands outside.
This adds to the uniqueness of the park as a tourist destination that combines education and recreation.
Main Attractions in Equator Park
In addition to seeing the monument that marks the zero degree latitude point, the Equator Park offers various interesting attractions that are both educational and fun. Here are some of the main attractions that you can enjoy in this park :
1. Equator Museum
Inside the Equator Museum, visitors can see various collections related to the history, culture, and astronomy of the equator.
One of the museum’s attractions is a replica of a VOC ship that once stopped in Pontianak in the 18th century, as well as a world map showing the path of the equator. In addition, this museum also exhibits photos of Indonesian presidents who have visited the Equator Park.
2. Zero Kilometer Monument of Indonesia
The Zero Kilometer Monument of Indonesia is one of the important icons of this park. In the form of a circle with a pillar in the middle decorated with the Garuda Pancasila symbol, this monument is the starting point for calculating the distance between cities in Indonesia.
This place is also a favorite photo spot for visitors who want to capture the moment at the zero point of Indonesia.
3. Flower Garden
Taman Khatulistiwa has a flower garden filled with various types of beautiful tropical flowers. In addition to being a place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, this park is also an Instagrammable photo spot, making it attractive to visitors who like to take pictures.
Interesting Activities in Equator Park
Khatulistiwa Park not only offers beautiful views and educational information, but also various interesting activities that can be enjoyed by all groups:
1. Exploring Two Tugu Monuments
Visitors can explore two monuments in Taman Khatulistiwa. The original monument is smaller and is located inside the main building, while the replica monument is five times larger and can be seen from outside.
Inside the monument, there are four towering belian wooden pillars, with a circle symbol that says “Evenaar” on the back pillar which means equator in Dutch.
2. Culmination Phenomenon
The culmination phenomenon is one of the main attractions in the Equator Park. Culmination occurs when the sun is directly above the equator, causing the shadows of the monument and surrounding objects, including the shadows of visitors, to disappear for a few seconds. This event occurs twice a year, namely on March 21–23 and September 21–23.
This phenomenon attracts many tourists, both local and international. At the culmination, the park hosts a lively festival that includes various interesting events. Visitors who participate will also receive the Equator Crossing Charter as a souvenir.
3. Astronomy Educational Tour
Apart from history, the Equator Park also offers educational tours in the field of astronomy. Visitors can learn interesting facts about the equator and related phenomena.
On some special occasions, the park also hosts a mini planetarium exhibit that allows visitors to see and learn more about the stars and planets.
4. Standing Egg Experiment
One of the unique attractions in Taman Khatulistiwa is the standing egg experiment. Visitors can try to stand the egg without the help of their hands, and the egg will stand upright due to the influence of gravity at zero degrees latitude. This phenomenon can only occur at the equator, adding to the uniqueness of this tour.
Facilities That Can Be Found in Khatulistiwa Park
Khatulistiwa Park is equipped with facilities that make the visit more comfortable and enjoyable. Some of the facilities available include:
- Clean public toilets
- Prayer room for worship
- Food stalls offering a variety of local dishes
- Large and safe parking area
- Tour boat offering a trip along the Kapuas River
- Interesting photo spots in various corners of the park
Enjoying the Sunset at Khatulistiwa Park
Towards the evening, visitors can head to the pier on the banks of the Kapuas River to enjoy the sunset view.
The reflection of orange light on the surface of the river creates an incredibly beautiful panorama, providing a calm and peaceful atmosphere. This moment is often a favorite for tourists who want to relax after exploring the park .
Pontianak Khatulistiwa Park is a tourist destination that combines education, history, and natural beauty. With the culmination phenomenon, a museum rich in information, and interesting attractions such as the standing egg experiment, this park, along with nearby Tourist Attractions in Singkawang, provides an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Not to forget, adequate facilities and beautiful views make Khatulistiwa Park a must-visit place when in Pontianak. Make sure to include Equator Park on your travel list and enjoy the uniqueness of the equator line that can only be found here.
