Gunung Halau-halau

Information

Elevation

1.901 m

Country

Indonesia (ID)

Location / Range

Meratus Mountains

Mountain type

non-volcanic (ophiolitic)

Volcanic?

No (non-volcanic)

Coordinates

-2.7106, 115.6259

Difficulty

Extreme — a long trail from low altitude (about 152 m) with a total elevation gain of nearly 1,750 m, dense forest terrain, multiple river crossings, and minimal trail markers

Best Season

Dry season around May–October. Avoid the rainy season (November–March) due to the risk of river flooding and landslides. Avoid February: customary closure for the Basambu Umang ceremony.

Permits & Rules

Note: as of 1 May 2026, the Dayak Meratus indigenous community declared a permanent closure of climbing access through a customary deliberation in Hinas Kiri Village. The Hulu Sungai Tengah Regency Government stated that there is as yet no official government decision on this matter (Antara, May 2026). Historically a SIMAKSI permit was not required, but it is mandatory to report to the local customary elder (Tutuha) and to use a local guide.

Hazards

Leeches are abundant throughout the lower forest trail; river crossings are dangerous during floods; some points have steep cliffs; risk of getting lost without a guide due to the trail's few markers; landslides in the rainy season

Description

Mount Halau-halau, also known as Gunung Besar, lies in South Kalimantan’s Meratus Mountains. Wikidata records an elevation of 1,901 metres. Historical trails from Kiyu and Kadayang cross forest to the summit. Climbers describe leeches and wet weather that can obscure views. On 4 May 2026, ANTARA reported a closure following a customary meeting and the HST government’s statement that no formal government decision existed. Older climbing accounts do not establish that access is currently open.