The path of the sun over the monument is such that exactly at the noon no shadow is cast by the monument's spire.Five kilometres north of the centre of Pontianak, one can find the precise spot at which the Equator bisects the earth. In an instant, visitors can travel between the Northern and Southern hemispheres without moving a muscle. Marking this spot is a monument erected in 1928 bay a Dutch astronomical expedition. Ten years later, "Monument Khatulistiwa" was further developed by an Indonesian architect by the name of Syalaban. A uniqe natural phenomenon can be observed twice a year at the side of the monument. The phenomena is visible for a period of only 5-10 minutes. In anticipation of this special time, the Dayak and Malay ethnic groups, among others, exhibit their rich cultural heritage through traditional dance, music and handicraft displays. These twice-yearly festivals should not be missed; once witnessed, they will not soon be forgotten.
