Pagu and the Rain Forest Lodge in Ba' Binuang

Pagu Kalvin in Dayak attire and attributes: quite impressive and dignified as a village chief. Photo credit: the writer.

BORNEOTRAVEL - BINUANG: Pagu Kalvin, still under 40 years old, is the Head of Ba' Binuang Village in Krayan, Nunukan Regency, North Kalimantan. 

Despite his relatively young age, he has been entrusted with significant responsibilities and is known to have substantial influence in the region. 

Yansen TP, the Vice Governor of North Kalimantan, even remarked that in Krayan, Pagu Kalvin holds more power than he does.

A chance to enjoy pristine and refreshing natural beauty

Ba' Binuang, located in the "heart of Borneo", offers a serene natural beauty reminiscent of the cooler climates of America or Europe. 

To reach Ba' Binuang, you have two main options:

  1. By land
    From Malinau, the capital of Malinau Regency, you can drive 170 kilometers. However, this journey can take between 12 to 16 hours due to the rugged and winding roads. A 4WD vehicle is necessary to navigate the challenging terrain.
  2. By air
    Alternatively, you can fly from Malinau to Samuel Tipa Padan Airport in Krayan. This flight takes about 25 minutes and provides quicker access to Ba' Binuang.

Visiting Ba' Binuang offers a chance to enjoy pristine and refreshing natural beauty, ideal for an adventurous and tranquil getaway. 

The MAF pilot family stayed at Rain Forest Lodge in Ba' Binuang and enjoyed fresh dishes from the nature of Krayan.

In Ba' Binuang, you’ll find a guesthouse (lodge) that originally had a somewhat unusual name, "Rain Foresh." Masri Sareb Putra, a writer and educator who visited Ba' Binuang in 2017, pointed out that the correct name should be "Rain Forest," with the ending of "Forest" being 't' instead of 'h'. 

The guesthouse has since corrected its name and is now known as the Rain Forest Guesthouse. This name reflects the untouched and fresh natural surroundings of Ba' Binuang, offering a stay that aligns with the charm of a tropical rainforest.

The Rain Forest guesthouse (lodge)

Kalvin Pagu’s accommodation feels more like a 'lodge.' Why is that? Well, 'lodge' is typically used for accommodations located in more natural or rural settings, often offering simpler facilities and emphasizing a close-to-nature atmosphere.

The Rain Forest Guesthouse, located in Binuang, Krayan Tengah, Nunukan Regency, has been in operation since 2007. 

Rain Forest Lodge in Ba' Binuang was initially built with a sign where "Forest" was not perfectly spelled. Nonetheless, it is part of the history and the process of interacting with Americans and other people around the world.

The name was given by Captain Paul and his wife, Beth College. Owned by Pagu Kalvin, the guesthouse is frequently used by tourists, government officials, and students conducting research in Krayan Tengah District. It is also conveniently close to Samuel Tipa Padan Airport in Krayan Tengah.

 The guesthouse offers comprehensive amenities, including a coffee spot, breakfast, and starlink wifi, making it a comfortable choice for visitors.

-- Masri Sareb Putra

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