Explore the best cultural tourism destinations in West Sumba, offering unique experiences ranging from traditional villages to traditional festivals that illustrate the richness of Sumbanese culture.
West Sumba, located on the exotic island of Sumba, is a place where rich traditional culture and community life that still upholds ancestral values are firmly maintained.
This is where you can find various traditional villages steeped in history, unique cultural festivals, and stunning natural beauty. If you want to experience authentic Sumbanese cultural richness, here are 10 cultural attractions in West Sumba that you must visit.
1. Ratenggaro Traditional Village: Uniqueness of Traditional Houses and Megalithic Stone Graves
Ratenggaro Traditional Village is located in Umbu Ngedo Village, Southwest Sumba Regency, and is one of the most famous traditional villages on Sumba Island.
This village captivates visitors with its traditional Sumbanese houses which have roofs of varying heights, reflecting the social status of their owners.
In addition, this village also has stone graves from the Megalithic era which are neatly arranged around it.
Interestingly, this village is close to Ratenggaro Beach, a tourist spot that offers natural beauty and a calm atmosphere. Don’t forget to enjoy the beauty of the beach after exploring this traditional village rich in history.
2. Tarung Village: Buffalo Horns as a Symbol of Social Status
Tarung Village, located in Wailiang District, Waikabubak City, is a charming traditional village with very strong traditions. The traditional houses in this village are decorated with buffalo horns and hanging pig jaws as a symbol of the social status of the homeowner.
The more horns that are hung, the higher the status of the house owner. Tarung Village is also known as a megalithic site that has relics such as stone graves and menhirs that are still preserved.
The local people are very friendly and love to share stories about their history and traditions, making this village a very interesting cultural tourism destination.
3. Praijing Traditional Village: Beautiful Views from the Viewing Terrace
Praijing Traditional Village is located in Wailiang Village, about 4 km from Tarung Village. This village is famous for its viewing terrace which allows visitors to enjoy beautiful views of the entire village with a stunning hill backdrop.
Praijing Village is the right place to enjoy the traditional atmosphere of Sumba which still maintains the culture of their ancestors. From here, you can learn more about the lives of the Sumbanese people who have strong local wisdom.
4. Praigoli Traditional Village: Traditions Unshaken by Modernization
Praigoli Traditional Village is located in Wanokaka District and is inhabited by the Praigoli tribe, who strongly uphold their customs. In this village, people’s lives are highly dependent on nature, and they maintain a traditional lifestyle by farming and raising livestock.
This village is quite far from the city center, giving a more authentic and peaceful impression. Visiting the Praigoli Traditional Village provides an opportunity to witness firsthand how the true traditions and way of life of Sumba are still well preserved.
5. Bodo Ede Traditional Village: Charming Wooden and Bamboo Traditional Houses
Bodo Ede Traditional Village is located in Lolo District, near Waikabubak City. This village has traditional houses made of wood and bamboo which are still used by the local people.
This village is inhabited by the Wee Bole tribe, who are famous for their skills in weaving and farming.
One of the interesting things is the stone in the shape of a horned human which is the symbol of this village. Visiting the Bodo Ede Traditional Village gives you the opportunity to experience a very traditional and profound life on Sumba Island.
6. Manupeu Tanah Daru National Park: Natural Beauty Blends with Culture
Manupeu Tanah Daru National Park is the largest nature conservation area in West Sumba with an area of around 88 thousand hectares covering various types of forests and protected areas.
In this park, you can find endemic flora and fauna of Sumba, such as the Sumba pigeon and Sumba honey.
In addition to offering natural tourism, Manupeu Tanah Daru National Park also has interesting cultural sites, such as the beautiful Kanawabulung Cave and the Lapopu and Matayangu waterfalls. This park is perfect for those of you who want to combine nature and cultural tourism in one trip.
7. Wulla Poddu Festival: An Enthralling Cultural Ritual
The Wulla Poddu or Bitter Moon Festival is one of the most important cultural festivals in West Sumba.
Held between October and November, the festival begins with the telling of ancestral stories, followed by a wild boar hunting procession and a circumcision ceremony for young boys.
This festival is a real depiction of the spirituality and customs of the Sumbanese people who are still very much tied to the Marapu belief. This festival provides an immersive experience for anyone who wants to experience Sumba’s rich culture firsthand.
8. Pasola Festival: A Thrilling Horse Riding Event
Pasola Festival is a very famous annual cultural festival in Sumba. Held annually in February or March, this festival features inter-village battles on horseback and attacking opponents using blunt wooden javelins.
Pasola is not only a test of strength, but also a religious ritual that aims to ensure a bountiful harvest. This festival attracts local and international tourists who want to witness one of the most thrilling and unique traditions in the world.
9. Rende Traditional Village: Simple Life and Agricultural Traditions
Rende Traditional Village is located in Kodi District, West Sumba, and is known for its unique traditional houses and agricultural traditions that are still preserved by its people.
In this village, people’s lives are very simple and depend on their agricultural products. Rende Traditional Village is an example of authentic Sumbanese traditional life, where the people still prioritize their relationship with nature and maintain their cultural values.
10. Tosi Traditional Village: Natural Beauty in Harmony with Tradition
Tosi Traditional Village, located in Lewa District, West Sumba, is known for its very natural and traditional atmosphere.
The traditional houses here are made of bamboo and thatch, while the people maintain a lifestyle that is highly dependent on agriculture and animal husbandry.
This village gives you the opportunity to experience peace and tranquility, as well as to learn more about the traditional life of the Sumbanese people, which is very thick with traditional values.
West Sumba is a place rich in culture and valuable traditions. From traditional villages that still maintain ancestral traditions to inspiring cultural festivals, every place in West Sumba provides an unforgettable experience.
Visiting West Sumba is a journey to dive into traditional life filled with peace, natural beauty, and cultural richness that is still well preserved. If you are looking for a tourist destination that combines culture, history, and stunning nature, West Sumba is the perfect place for you to visit.
Additionally, exploring the unique traditions of the Asmat Tribe will give you a deeper appreciation of Indonesia’s rich and diverse heritage.
