Like some other Dayak people, they are known for being fierce warriors, former headhunters, adept in Upland rice cultivation, and having extensive tattoos and stretched earlobes amongst both sexes.

Wars and headhunting attacks have caused many other tribes to be displaced, including the Kayan people, who make up of 1.4% of the West Kutai Regency population.

[9] The Kayan people are engaged in breeding pigs and chickens, while dogs are kept for ritual purposes.

[10] Loom, weaving, production of tans, arts, wood carving, making of masks and pottery are also developed.

The Kayan people developed a religion and a complex cult (bounty hunting and human sacrifices[15] that disappeared at the beginning of the 20th century, as well as shamanism).

[16] The core event was the feast of collected heads (mamat), during which warrior initiations and funeral ceremonies were held.