The equator
Through the city.
Zhilal Darma — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Zhilal Darma — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Zhilal Darma — CC BY-SA 4.0
Pontianak is one of the few cities in the world the equator passes through, and in its north stands a famous monument marking the line. Its original wooden version was raised in 1928 and later housed inside a domed building for protection, with a replica five times larger in front. The monument is a set of pillars topped by a disc and an arrow showing direction. The site is famous for a phenomenon twice a year, around the equinoxes in late March and late September, when the sun is directly overhead at noon and the shadows of objects and people vanish for moments, an event the city celebrates. The building has a small exhibition, and visitors can get a certificate for crossing the equator. Entry is free, with the certificate a token fee. It sits on the north bank of the Kapuas River. If you can, plan your trip around the equinox to see the shadows disappear. Otherwise half an hour is enough for photos and the exhibition.
Through the city.
Twice a year.
Inside a domed hall.
North Pontianak, on the north bank of the Kapuas River
At noon on days near the equinoxes, about 21-23 March and 21-23 September, if the sky is clear. Check the official celebration dates.