RRI.CO.ID, Rantau - Batu Hapu Cave in Tapin Regency, South Kalimantan, has emerged as a key highlight of the region's tourism push as the local Tourism Awareness Group (Pokdarwis) accelerates site upgrades to drive economic growth for surrounding villages.

Famed for its dramatic stalactite and stalagmitic formations and the striking natural light beams filtering through its cavern roof, the cave has seen a surge in popularity fueled by viral social media coverage. The steady influx of domestic and international visitors has turned the site into a vital economic anchor, currently supporting local food vendors, culinary stalls, and emerging craft merchants.

To maintain momentum, the Hatungun Pokdarwis is balancing habitat conservation for local flora and fauna with plans to expand the destination's recreational facilities, aiming to establish Batu Hapu Cave as one of Kalimantan's premier eco-tourism hubs.

Local tourism managers, business owners, and regional leaders emphasized that site development must combine environmental protection with infrastructure upgrades to deliver long-term prosperity.

Chairman of the Hatungun Pokdarwis, Pardiyana, pointed out the unique appeal driving visitor interest and the need for continuous site updates.

"Visitors are drawn to enjoy the cool atmosphere inside the cave, view the stalactites and stalagmites, and capture moments with the sunlight reflecting inside, Around 10 business operators currently rely on the Batu Hapu Cave area for their livelihoods, the economic potential can be further increased if supported by facility improvements, we want to introduce new updates so visitors do not grow bored and are eager to return," Pardiyana said in Rantau on Sunday, August 2, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

Local culinary vendor, Siti Rahmah, shared how the rise in cave visits has directly improved local household incomes.

"Since more tourists started coming after seeing the cave online, our food and drink stalls stay busy, especially on weekends, we hope the administration helps build better parking and souvenir shops so more villagers can open businesses here," Siti remarked.

Regional tourism advocate, Hendra Wijaya, noted that Batu Hapu Cave serves as a model for community-led eco-tourism in South Kalimantan.

"Batu Hapu Cave proves that natural hidden gems can transform rural economies when managed directly by the community, with proper infrastructure support and sustainable conservation practices, it can become a benchmark for eco-tourism across the province," Hendra explained. ***