Taman Cendana | Samarinda

Taman Cendana is a public park situated in the city of Samarinda, East Kalimantan, Indonesia.

Visual Characteristics

The park features a central open lawn area surrounded by mature tropical trees, primarily cendana (sandalwood) trees, which provide canopy cover. Pathways are constructed from concrete pavers. A small, man-made pond with a fountain is located in the western section. The park's perimeter is defined by a low concrete wall.

Location & Access Logistics

Taman Cendana is located approximately 3 kilometers south of Samarinda's city center. Access is via Jalan Pahlawan. Public parking is available along the eastern perimeter of the park on Jalan Pahlawan, with capacity for approximately 50 vehicles. Samarinda's Trans-Sarana (BRT) bus line 1 stops at the "Pasar Pagi" station, which is a 10-minute walk (0.8km) north of the park entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The park was established in 1995 by the Samarinda City Government as a green space initiative. The primary ecological focus was the preservation and cultivation of cendana trees, native to the region. The pond is a constructed water feature, not a natural formation.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can walk the paved pathways. Seating is available on park benches. Photography of the cendana trees is possible. The pond area is suitable for observation. Children's play equipment is located in the northern section.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available in a dedicated building near the southern entrance. Shade is provided by the tree canopy. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally consistent throughout the park. No food vendors are permanently located within the park; however, street vendors operate on Jalan Pahlawan during daylight hours.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting for photography, early morning (07:00-09:00) or late afternoon (16:00-18:00) is recommended. The park is accessible year-round. The best months for comfortable outdoor activity are during the dry season, typically from June to September.

Facts & Legends

Local lore suggests that the scent of the cendana trees in Taman Cendana can bring good fortune to those who spend extended periods within the park. The park's cendana trees are cultivated from saplings sourced from the interior forests of East Kalimantan.

Nearby Landmarks

• Pasar Pagi (0.8km North)
• Masjid Raya Darussalam (1.2km Northeast)
• Museum Negeri Kalimantan Timur (2.5km North)
• Taman Samarendah (3.0km North)