Manupeu Tanah Daru National Park has a high value biodiversity, which are the 274 plant species, 171 bird species including 10 endemic species, 9 mammal species, 15 reptile species and 6 amphibian species. Some natural tourist attractions in Manupeu National Park area include the Matayangau Waterfall, the Lapopu Waterfall, Mondulambi Beach, Savanna and Bakul Cave.

Manupeu Tanah Daru National Park Flora

Manupeu Tanah Daru National Park has high-value biodiversity, which are around 118 types of plants including the Suren (Toona Sureni), Taduk (Sterculia Foetida), Kesambi (Schleichera Oleosa), Pulai (Alstonia Scholaris), Asam (Tamarindus Indica), Candlenut (Aleurites Moluccana), Jambu Hutan (Syzygium Sp.), Pine Mountain (Casuarina Sp.) and Lantana (Lantana Camara).

Credit: TripSumba

Manupeu Tanah Daru National Park Fauna

There are more than 87 species of birds in this national park area, including seven species endemic of Sumba Island, which are the Cempaka Cockatoo (Cacatua Sulphurea Citrinocristata), Sumba Julang (Rhyticeros Everetti), Punai Sumba (Treron Teysmannii), Sumba Flycatcher (Ficedula Harterti), Kepodang – Sumba (Coracina Dohertyi) and Sumba honey (Nectarinia Buettikoferi).

The Julang Sumba and the Cempaka Cockatoo are the rarest and endangered birds, especially on the island of Sumba.

This national park has also around 57 types of butterflies including seven endemic to Sumba Island, which are the Papilio Neumoegenii, Ideopsis Oberthurii, Delias Fasciata, Junonia Adulatrix, Athyma Karita, Sumalia Chilo, and Elimnia Amoena.

Best visiting season to Manupeu Tanah Daru National Park are March to June and October to December each year.

Credit: RimbaKita

Interesting Locations to Visit while in Manupeu Tanah Daru National Park

Birdwatching Spot. This birdwatching spot is a site which is always visited by the Julang Sumba (Rhyticeros everetti) in September. During this period, several of them were always seen crossing from East to West and vice versa. In September 2012, the process of competition and fights between 4 (four) males to get females was observed.

Other than birds, visitors can also see the activities of the long-tailed monkey colony (Macaca fascicularis), and if you are lucky, you can see the Rusa Timor (Cervus timorensis). Apart from observing the Julang Sumba and the activities of various other bird species, visitors can also see the growth of saplings of tree species that play an important role in bird life cycle, such as the nest trees and forage trees planted in the restoration area.

Accessibility to this location is very easy because it is only 200 meters from the main road of Konda Maloba. In September, the road conditions are good and dry so it is easy to pass. There are several additional facilities there such as: quite safe and complete restoration work huts (rooms, mattresses, bathrooms, kitchens), safety fences, security posts as well as the nursery dams.

Matayangu and Lapopu Waterfalls. These two waterfalls are located in Waimanu Village and Katikutana Village.

Lapopu Waterfall, Credit: GPSWisataIndonesia

Some of the cultural attractions on Sumba Island include the Waikabubak area where there are many ancient carved graves. The ancient graves are a symbol of social status and public health (Kadung Tana, Watu Karagata and Bulu Peka Mila). Pasola War Festival, is a very interesting and tense ritual attraction, because several people were seen riding horses decorated with colors, attacking each other to knock down one another with wooden spears. The attractions are held in February at Lamboya and Kodi Villages and ini March at Gaura and Wanukaka villages.

To reach Manupeu Tanah Daru National Park visitors can use the following routes:

· Kupang-Waingapu by plane for approx (1 hour)

· Waingapu-Lewa-Waikabubak by four-wheeled vehicles for about (2 hours)

· Waikabubak – Langgaliru Village, Katiku Loku Village and Watumbelar Village.

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Pasola is a traditional war game between two groups of equestrian ‘troops’ who throw javelins (wooden spears) at each other in a savanna. Etymologically, Pasola comes from the word ‘sola’ or ‘hola’ which means a wooden spear or javelin so it can be said that Pasola is an agility game using a javelin.

Credit: Itinari

According to local stories, this unique tradition was born from the love story of a beautiful widow, the Rabu Kaba. Before accepting widow status, Rabu Kaba was the legal wife of Umbu Dula, the leader of the Waiwuang community. Umbu Dula had two other brothers which are Ngongo Tau Masusu and Yagi Waikareri. Once the three brothers asked for leave to the people of Waiwuang to explore the sea.

However, it turned out that they went to the southern area of East Sumba Beach to collect rice. After all this time, it turned out that the three brothers had not come home. Residents also looked for their traces but could not find it. Finally, the residents agreed to hold a mourning ceremony and considered them dead.

In short, the beautiful widow of the late Umbu Dula’s wife then had a love affair with Teda Gaiparona, a handsome young man from Kodi Village. However, because the customary regulations stated that their love is illegal, this couple then runaway. The beautiful widow was brought by Teda Gaiparona to Kodi Village. Not long after the incident, the three brothers Ngongo Tau Masusu, Yagi Waikareri and Umbu Dula returned to Waiwuang Village and found news that Rabu Kaba had been taken away by Teda Gaiparona.

Disputes are inevitable. The three brothers and all the residents of Waiwuang asked Teda Gaiparona to take responsibility for taking away Rabu Kaba. Finally an agreement was reached, that Teda Gaiparona had to replace the dowry received by Rabu Kaba from the Umbu Dulla family. After that, a traditional marriage can be carried out.

After the wedding, Teda Gaiparona advised the residents to carry out Pasola Festival. In this way, it is hoped that the revenge of the two villages can be released by playing war games and competing fair in agility game of throwing javelins from the horse.

The implementation of the Pasola Tradition itself is actually part of the Marapu Ritual (the local religion of the Sumba people). In Marapu belief, the most important element is maintaining harmony between humans and their ancestors. This is because the spirits of the ancestors will bring them fertility and prosperity. This unique traditions of Sumba community is usually held as the culmination of the Nyale Traditional Party, which is a traditional ceremony to ask for the blessing of the gods and ancestral spirits so that the year’s harvest will be successful.

The Timing of Pasola War Festival

Credit: TripSumba

The Pasola tradition in East Nusa Tenggara relies heavily on the calculation of the traditional elders (Rato) who interpret various natural signs, including the moon’s circulation. The calculation of the Rato is said to have never been missed. It can be seen from the emergence of nyale (sea worms) when the Pasola is carried out. The existence of the “nyale” is a sign of the start of the Pasola game. According to Gregorian calendar, Pasola is held between February and March in several places around West Sumba Regency, East Nusa Tenggara.

The Nyale, Credit: Mongabay

In this challenging and dangerous game, visitors can see firsthand two groups of ‘Sumbanese Knights’ facing each other, then galloping their horses agile while occasionally shooting their javelins towards the opponent. Not only skilled at horse riding and throwing javelins, the Pasola participants were also very adept at avoiding sticks thrown by their opponents. The hooves of horses thundering across the field, the sound of horses braying and the ferocious screams of the riders become the natural music accompanying the game. Not to mention the screams of female spectators cheering their “heroes” on the battlefield.

In this game, the participants have prepared a special wooden stick with a length of 1.5 meters with a diameter of 1.5 cm. Even though the stick is left blunt, accident is often happen and hurting the participants and even cause casualties. The blood that flows in the Pasola arena is considered beneficial for soil fertility and for the harvest to be successful.

Meanwhile, if there is a victim, then the victim is considered to have received punishment from the gods for doing an offense. Participants who are hit by a javelin — if possible — can respond in this arena. However, if the game is over, while the participants are still curious to reply to the opponent’s strike, then he must be patient to wait for Pasola event in the following year. This is because in Pasola tradition, it is not justified to hold grudges and take revenge outside the Pasola arena.

The implementation of the Pasola Tradition is not only just a bodily (profane) game, but also represents the obedience of Marapu followers in carrying out the customs of their ancestors. Because the Pasola itself is sacred, before the implementation of Pasola event, the traditional elders performed meditation and lakutapa (fasting) to ask for good blessings from the gods and the ancestors.

Apart from having a sacred value, functionally the Pasola Tradition can also be seen as a unifying element for the Sumba society. As the story about the origin of Pasola, which is to get rid of the grudge between Waiwuang and Kodi villages, Pasola has until now become a place of friendship and brotherhood among residents. Residents between the two camps who “fought” in Pasola were invited to laugh and have fun together while watching the agility of the horsemen.

The Pasola game was held in four villages in West Sumba Regency. The four villages include Kodi Village, Lamboya Village, Wanokaka Village and the Gaura Village. The implementation of Pasola War Festival in those four villages is carried out in rotation, between February and March each year.

Meanwhile, access to the Pasola area is quite easy. From Waingapu City, tourists can take the public transportation such as buses or rent travel services to get to the Pasola location in West Sumba Regency. Watching the Pasola Festival is one of best things to do while vacationing in Sumba.

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Located in the Manupeu Tanah Daru National Park, precisely in Lapopu Village, Wanokaka District, West Sumba Regency, the Sumba Lapopu Waterfall is a multilevel waterfall (steps) type that falls from a cliff with a height of about 90 meters. There are no accommodations yet in Lapopu Waterfall area, but the closest lodging is in the capital city of West Sumba, Waikabubak area or Southwest Sumba in Tambolaka area.

Credit: GPSWisataIndonesia

Road access to Lapopu can be started from Waikabubak or Tambolaka using rented vehicle because there is no public transportation yet to reach this waterfall. Located approximately 30 km from Waikabubak, the location is still very natural with access to roads that have not been paved up to several meters into this waterfall area. Even there are almost no signs or road directions to this area, therefore it is advisable to invite local Sumba residents who understand the route to this waterfall.

Arriving at the entrance to the waterfall, visitors can register to the national park staffs by paying an entrance ticket around IDR5000. Although not quite adequate, there are facilities such as toilets and space to change clothes at the national park guard post office. To get to the waterfall, visitors have to walk about 500 meters along the banks of the Lapopu River, with rocky terrain that tends to decline. In the middle of the trekking trip, visitors will also pass a simple wooden bridge that looks a little fragile and can only be passed by a maximum of two people at once when crossing it.

Credit: AlfaLaniBudayaSumba

Shortly after that, visitors can already see how beautiful the Lapopu Waterfall is with its very clear bluish green water. Visitors can also feel the fresh flow of the waterfall by swimming in the natural pool under the waterfall. Apart from being a favorite tourist spot, it turns out that Lapopu Waterfall is also used as a source of water for the local community. Even though it looks big and heavy, the bathing depth below is only 2 meters, so it’s safe to swim.

Sumba Lapopu Waterfall is a mandatory destination for visitors who want to travel overland to explore the exoticism of Sumba Island from west to east. This waterfall has already become favorite destination for foreign and domestic tourists who vacationing in Sumba Island. In fact, guests from Nihiwatu the best hotel in the world, always visit the waterfall to swim and enjoy the natural atmosphere and fresh air there. The best time to visit Lapopu is during the dry season in Indonesia, which is around May to October, where the water flow is not too big.

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Ratenggaro Traditional Village is located in Umbu Ngedo Village, Kodi Bangedo District, Southwest Sumba Regency. From Tambolaka City, you have to drive approximately 1.5 hours to 2 hours depending on the speed you travel. There are no public transportation to go to this village because the location is quite remote. So there are only 2 possibilities to get there, join travel or rent a car/motorcycle. It’s not really recommended to rent a motorbike because the location is quite far from the city. Paved roads are quite smooth, only few roads are not good near the village location.

Credit: Pinterest

The history of Ratenggaro is very long, which began in the megalithic era thousands of years ago. From various references, the history of this place can be traced from its name. “Rate” means the grave and “Garo” are the initial inhabitants who occupied this place. During the war among tribes, this village was captured from the Garo tribe and the victims who lost the war were buried in the tomb. The grave stone itself has square shape like a table. Because the many graves inside the village area make Ratenggaro seem hideous. In total there are around 304 stone tombs located here. The size and sculpture of each stone making this place even more spooky.

Interestingly, the Ratenggaro Traditional Village has other unique things in its traditional house called Uma Kelada. The Uma Kelada has the characteristics of towering towers reaching 15 to 20 meters. The roof is made from rice straw and the height of each house is based on the resident social status. The building is shaped like a stilt house consists of four levels with different functions.

Credit: ThisIsLuxuryTravel

The lowest level is used as a pet area. The second level is the main area for the owner. And above it is a place to store crops. Then on top of the cooking place is a box that is used as a place to store sacred objects. While the top level is a place to put buffalo horn as a symbol of glory. At first glance the houses are similar to the houses of Torajan people and Flores which there is a pig jaw and buffalo horn hanging as a symbol that the owner of the house had carried out traditional ceremonies.

Ratenggaro is also a traditional village that still holds firmly the preservation of the customs and traditions of their ancestors. This can be seen from the local community belief which are still adheres the Marapu tradition, just like the villages in Southwest Sumba Regency in general. Marapu belief is the root of the social, political and cultural system of Sumba.

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Weekuri Lagoon size is not too large, about almost the size of a soccer field. The water is very clear, so the bottom of the lake appears from the surface, while the sand at the bottom of the lake has white color similar to sand on Sumba beaches. This is because the location of the lake is near the sea, only separated by coral cliffs. The water is salty, because sea water enters through the crevices of the cliffs and is then accommodated by a basin that is lined with rocks.

Sea water enters through the gap of the cliff and mixes with fresh water from the spring. So don’t be surprised if you feel different temperatures when you throw yourself at this magnificent lake. The combination of warm and cold water will be felt in some parts of the lake.

Credit: BisnisWisata

The Lake Weekuri is a favorite tourist attraction in Southwest Sumba because people are rarely meets a salt water lake and also the natural atmosphere around the lake is very beautiful. The lagoon is also not too deep. It is suitable for swimming. The atmosphere is still very calm and also still far from crowded. The view from the lake is also amazing. It is suitable to be an alternative destination for your vacation in Sumba.

The water which is as clear as glass, making anyone who visits this lake want to jump right in and swim there. Once you have satisfied enjoying the freshness of the water, try also going up to the cliffs that surround the lake. You will surely be amazed. From the top of the cliff, you can see the vast ocean and green meadows. Lake Weekuri also looks more blue from the top. Don’t forget to capture all of its natural beauty with your camera.

Located 60 km from Tambaloka, Southwest Sumba, it takes approximately two hours to reach the Weekuri Lagoon. Visiting Weekuri is perfect for those of you who have a high adventurous spirit tours. It is because after using air transportation from the capital of the Province of East Nusa Tenggara, Kupang, you still have to continue your journey by renting a car from Tambaloka. The road leading to Lake Weekuri is already partially paved, but the rest are still rough.

Credit: IDNTimes

You will also pass through a forest area where there are shrubs anywhere and you have to pass narrow road. After arriving at the guard post portal, visitors must continue the journey by walking about 25 meters to the location of Lake Weekuri. By the way, facilities around the lagoon are still very minimal. There are no food stalls or hotels here. Before visiting this place you should bring your own food and drinks. If you want to stay overnight, you can get lodging in Tambolaka City.

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Sumba Nihiwatu Beach which is ranked 17th for the most beautiful beaches in the world, is also known for the best place to enjoy sunset in Sumba. The sunset view is very charming and even better with clear sea water and sandy beach. Nihiwatu Beach even managed to beat the beauty of the famous panorama in Hawaii, Hanalei Bay.

This beach does have a quiet and comfortable atmosphere so it is suitable for those who want to be alone and enjoy the atmosphere of the beach. This is because the location of Nihiwatu Beach is far from the hustle of the city and has not been touched by industries in Indonesia. Nihiwatu Beach is currently managed by an international resort called the Resort Nihiwatu.

Credit: TropicSurf

The beach which is located 30 km from the City of Waikabubak, West Sumba Regency is also a destination for world-class surfers. The magnificent waves at Nihiwatu Beach attract the adrenaline. The waves in this place are also one of the fastest and the best in Indonesia. Even surfers dub this beach as the God’s Left.

Because this beach is one of favorite places to surf, in order to maintain the security and safety of surfers there is a rule that must be obeyed. The surfers cannot surf together at the same time. The limit of surfers that can do surfing is only 10 people. If there are already 10 surfers on the beach then the other ones must wait their turn.

While waiting, there are several activities tourists can do such as fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, boat rides to Konda Maloba Beach bay area, bird watching, mountain biking to trekking to the waterfall.

However not all the tourists can enjoy the beauty and awesomeness of the waves at Nihiwatu Beach, even for locals. This is because the Nihiwatu Beach is included in the territory of an international resort, the Resort Nihiwatu. So tourists who want to enjoy the beauty of Nihiwatu Beach, of course they have to book a room first at the Nihiwatu Sumba Hotel, which is quite expensive even for one night.

Credit: Kompasiana

The resort building consists of villas facing the sea. Some of the bungalows consist of three large bedrooms built on a hill and equipped with a private swimming pool directly overlooking to the Indian Ocean. Similarly, the restaurant is deliberately built facing the beach with an open building model. The architecture and ornamentation of the buildings are combination of traditional and modern designs. Besides being able to enjoy the beauty of the sea view from the distance, the resort’s guests will also be introduced to Sumba culture.

Nihiwatu Sumba Beach can be reached by one hour flight from Ngurah Rai Airport in Denpasar, Bali, aiming to Tambolaka Airport. From Tambolaka Airport tourists can rent a car to take them to Nihiwatu Beach. Your long journey will be paid off with the beauty of Nihiwatu and the ferocious waves that are tempting to be conquered.

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One tradition that Sumba People still profess is the Marapu Religion. This religion has a belief in worshiping the ancestors. The people who live in traditional or inland villages usually still adhere to this religion. Other than Marapu’s beliefs, here are other unique traditions of Sumba community.

1. Belis

Credit: Boombastis

Belis is a reward tradition for marriage in Sumba community. Men who want to propose Sumba women are required to provide a number of livestock as their present, ranging from buffalo, cow, pig to Sandalwood or Pasola Horse.

The number of animals required for marriage is determined by the bride’s family, so the bridegroom’s family must fulfill it.

The more esteemed the bridegroom’s family, the more animals must be given. For example, a man wants to marry a woman from a noble family, at least he must bring 40 Pasola Horses along with dozens of other livestock.

2. Pasola

Credit: Steemit

Every year, Sumba holds the Pasola Horse Ceremony as a tradition. Horses that have been bred since ancient times there also become a social status for the people of Sumba.

The main attraction in the Pasola tradition is the scene of attacking each other between villages. Youth ride on horses while throwing javelins or wielding machetes or so-called katapo. But take it easy, no one is seriously injured in these terrible attractions.

The Pasola is still held in some of traditional villages that are strong in Marapu beliefs, such as in Kodi (Southwest Sumba) and Wanokaka, Lamboya and Gaura (West Sumba). It is carried out alternately there from February to March each year.

The regional government supported by the Ministry of Tourism then packed the unique tradition of Sumba into the so called Pasola Festival.

3. Grave Stone

Credit: Duniart

In traditional villages and remote areas of Sumba residents, a cube-shaped stone building which is used as a family tomb is still visible today.

The body is not placed supine, but curled like a baby inside the fetus. Before being “stored” in a stone tomb, the body had also been dressed in traditional Sumba clothing.

4. Katopo

Credit: Bukalapak

Those who have watched the ‘Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts’ movie must have been initially surprised to see Sumba residents looking relaxed carrying long machetes.

Sumba is not identical with violence. The long machetes is called “Katopo”. It is an accessory which is usually commonly carried by residents. Katopo measurement is about 50 to 70 centimeters. The sharp object is inserted in a cloth wrapped around the waist.

For men, Katopo is also a symbol of virility. Both men and women in Sumba use Katopo for their working aids, both in the fields and on farms.

5. Kede

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Kede is a death ceremony in Sumba tradition. The family and relatives of the deceased person will deliver livestock to the deceased’s residence. Unlike Sumba marriage, in kede there is no limit to the number of livestock that must be given.

After the livestock is accepted, the grieving family immediately slaughters the animal, then cooked and served to mourners. This procession is almost the same as Tana Toraja tradition but minus the buffalo fighting procession.

6. Nose Kiss Tradition

Credit: Kompasiana

A unique tradition that can be found when visiting Sumba Island is the tradition of kissing the nose or “pudduk” (in East Sumba language). This tradition has been passed down for generations by ancestors of the Sumba people.

The tradition of kissing the nose for Sumba people is a symbol of family and friendship closeness. If there are parties who are in conflict and want to make peace, then a nose kiss will be done which is a symbol of peace.

Although the tradition of kissing the nose has become a custom and habit for the Sumba people, but this tradition cannot be done in any place and time. This tradition can be carried out only in certain occasions, such as during the process of implementing marital traditions, weddings, birthdays, religious holidays, traditional parties, grief and peace events.

7. “Pahilir” Tradition

Credit: DriftTravelMagazine

Another unique tradition of the Sumba people that is not well known by many people is the “Pahillir Tradition” or in Indonesian can be interpreted as “the tradition of avoiding”.

This tradition does not allow “daughter-in-law and father-in-law or son-in-law and mother-in-law” to communicate or doing direct contact, even goods belonging to each other nor should it be touched.

For Sumba people, this is “taboo” and is not appropriate, so when they meet, they must eschew or in East Sumba known as “pahilir”.

8. Betel Nut Chewing

Credit: Postcourier

For Sumba People, the tradition of chewing betel nut or “happa” (East Sumba language) is a symbol of kinship in everyday relationships even in various events such as marriage and death.

This tradition is carried out by chewing betel nuts and lime which will cause reddish teeth and mouths. Do not be surprised when you visit local houses, you will be served betel nut as a symbol of respect and intimacy.

The betel nut tradition is also a symbol of communication with the spirits of deceased ancestors and is often served in several important events, such as marriage and death ceremony.

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Sumba is famous for its endless beaches to be explored. For this time we will discuss about the uniqueness of Sumba beaches, especially the beauty of the sunset panorama you should not miss.

For you who love sunset photography, get ready! Here are 5 best beaches to enjoy sunset in Sumba.

1. Walakiri Beach

Credit: ReferensiWisata

Walakiri is one of the beaches on Sumba Island which is already popular for its beautiful sunset. The beach, which is located in Watumbaka Village, Pandawai District, East Sumba Regency, offers an unusual sunset view with a background that you may rarely find elsewhere.

When you arrive at the beach you will be greeted by an orange sky. One thing that makes the sunset view at Walakiri Beach very unique is the background of the dwarf mangrove tress in some part of the coastal areas. Guaranteed, the sunset here will hypnotize everyone who sees it.

2. Mbawana Beach

Credit: Direview

Besides Walakiri, Sumba Island also has Mbawana Beach, which its sunset beauty is difficult to match. This beach is located in Panenggo Ede Village, Kodi Bangedo District, Southwest Sumba Regency. To get to this location, you only need to travel for 1.5 hours from Tambolaka Airport.

Mbawana Beach is unique because of the high cliffs that surround the beach. In one corner of the beach, you will find a rock with a semicircular hole formed naturally.

3. Watu Maladong Beach

Credit: IDNTimes

Watu Maladong is another best beach to enjoy sunset in Sumba. It also offers beautiful sunsets. On this beach, you will find a row of large and tall clusters of rocks. This beach is located in Kahale Village, Kodi Bangedo District, Southwest Sumba Regency.

You can see beautiful sunset against the background of high rocks, as well as from the rock gaps formed naturally. For those of you who like photography, don’t hesitate to take pictures of the sunset view because Watu Maladong Beach is ready to make your feed more instagramable.

4. Pero Beach

Credit: Padmagz

Pero Beach is a coastal area located in Pero Kodi Village, Kodi District, Southwest Sumba Regency. This beach is located about 40 km from the capital city of Southwest Sumba in Tambolaka with travel time of approximately 30 minutes by car.

The Pero Beach existence is not as famous as Tarimbang Beach, Puru Kambera Beach, or Walakiri Beach in East Sumba, but Pero Beach has two unique things that characterize this beach which are the waves and sunset.

Pero Beach waves are known to be quite large and elongated so it is suitable for surfing locations. Another beauty that Pero Beach has is the sunset. This beach is a favorite location for tourists and locals to enjoy the sunset in Sumba. In the afternoon, this beach starts crowded with visitors who want to enjoy the sunset.

5. Nihiwatu Beach

Credit: MLDSpot

Nihiwatu is one of the best beaches in Indonesia and even has the fastest waves in the world. It attracts the adrenaline of the world’s surfers. Even surfers dub this beach as the God’s Left.

Nihiwatu Beach is also known for its very charming sunset sensation. It is so perfect with clear sea and clean sand beach. Nihiwatu Beach even managed to beat the beauty of the famous panorama in Hawaii, Hanalei Bay. Its location which is away from the crowds is perfect for you who want to be alone and enjoy the atmosphere of the beach.

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Sumba Island is a territorial part of the East Nusa Tenggara Province. To go to Sumba Island, you don’t have to worry about the access, because this island can be reached directly by air transportation through Ngurah Rai Airport in Bali or Kupang Eltari Airport.

If you are already on Sumba, it means that you are already in a piece of heaven. This is not overstate because Sumba offers stunning natural views and unique culture. Want to know what you can do on this exotic island? Here are the list of 10 things to do in Sumba for your perfect getaway.

1. Ritual

Credit: Travelingyuk

Sumba is an island with many traditional rituals. During the year there are several seasons where each ritual is held. Customs rituals that will impress you.

For those of you who have time or are planning vacation in early February and March, there is a ritual carried out involving Sumba knights in action with their horses on a vast expanse of fields that are crowded by local people.

But if you don’t have time for a vacation to Sumba around that months, you don’t need to worry because in October a Wula Poddu ceremony is also held, a kind of ritual for celebrating holidays. But the difference is there is a sacred procession that must be conducted before the peak of the Ritual.

Besides, there is also a traditional funeral ritual in Sumba which are no less exciting to be participated while vacationing in Sumba.

2. Experience in The Village

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The island of Sumba is also a clear evidence of the existence of diversity in Indonesia. Actually, in this small island there are many languages, cultures and customs. Of course the experience of seeing the living habits of rural communities in Sumba is equally interesting. You can visit several traditional villages in Sumba such as Tarung and Praijing, if you are in Waikabubak.

Since there are many cultures in Sumba, if you want to get to know other cultures that still exist in West Sumba, you can visit the traditional villages of Waigali and Praigoli, located in Wanokaka District. In other districts such as Southwest Sumba you can also visit the traditional villages of Rottenggaro, Wainyapu and Tosi.

Each traditional village has its uniqueness and charm that will surely give you a new experience. In East Sumba Regency there is also the Rende Indigenous Village which also has a characteristic.

When entering a traditional village there, do not hesitate to taste typical Sumba snacks, betel and areca nut that are eaten together with whiting and also try to mingle with people around the village and ask for photos with them in traditional Sumba clothing. All residents in the traditional village of Sumba are friendly, so you must feel like your own family.

3. Traditional House

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When you are in Sumba, don’t forget to see its local traditional house. The traditional house of Sumba is so unique. For those who like traditional art architecture (vernacular), Sumba can be one of the destinations for your research.

All existing traditional houses are built traditionally and not only that, all those inside the Traditional House have their respective meanings culturally.

4. Megalithikum

Credit: MisiUmatRedemptoris

When it comes to ancient relics, Sumba also has it. In Sumba there are so many megalithic relics. They are interesting for sure and exotic too. If you like historical relics from the past, explore some of them in Sumba.

Usually the existence of Megalithic heritage is in the Customary Village. Graves with unique structures and shapes are ready to entertain you.

5. Surfing

Credit: SumbaSurfCamp

Next things to do in Sumba is Surfing. For those of you that have surfing hobby, you will definitely be very happy if you see the beaches in Sumba. Like other islands in Nusa Tenggara region, Sumba is also an island that has many beaches with various sensations.

Some of them which are popular as surfing location are Marosi Beach and Karwei Beach. Both of them situated in West Sumba Regency and the condition of the beach is not too crowded.

6. Beach Panorama

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Next things to do in Sumba is to enjoy beach panorama. If you want a slightly calmer beach atmosphere maybe Walakiri Beach and Purukambera in East Sumba can be your destination. Besides that, in certain seasons there is also a beautiful Konda Maloba Beach in Central Sumba.

These beaches offer a beautiful seaside experience with beautiful white sand, adorned with beautiful and exotic cliffs as well as beautiful underwater scenery. You can do snorkel, relax and also sunbathe comfortably.

7. Landscape

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Well, Sumba will also satisfy everyone who love photography or those of you who like natural atmosphere and scenery. Sumba is very exotic with a variety of different patterns and sensations. In West Sumba Regency you can enjoy the expanse of paddy fields between mountains.

Meanwhile in East Sumba you can spoil your eyes with views of Savanna. You will not find many scenes like this in Indonesia. Sumba landscape is so beautiful. Strong cliffs on the beach with unique patterns and structures will make you feel an extraordinary experience.

8. Waterfall

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Sumba has another charms besides the beach, culture and landscape. Sumba offers waterfalls scenery. In West Sumba there is Lapopu Waterfall, in Central Sumba there is Matayangu Waterfall and Soru Waterfall, while in East Sumba there is Tanggedu Waterfall, Waikanabu Waterfall and Maidang Waterfall.

Each of these waterfalls has their own characteristics and beauty starting from the pattern, access and location. The best time to enjoy them when there is a transition between the rainy season and the dry season.

The location of the waterfalls in Sumba is quite challenging, but it is fun because you can see natural scenery along the way. You will feel the sensation of real adventure.

9. Handicraft

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Another things to do in Sumba is to see the handicraft works. Starting from the craft of weaving, machete and Sumba typical accessories. You can have all of them when visiting traditional villages or traditional markets. About the price, do not worry because you will certainly feel worth the items you get. With the quality offered, the price is relatively cheap.

10. Traditional Market Shopping Tour

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Another things to do in Sumba is shopping. If you vacationing in Sumba, don’t forget to stop by the traditional market there to buy souvenirs. You can find everything about Sumba here. The price offered also varies according to the quality and type of goods.

The post 10 Things To Do in Sumba appeared first on Authentic Indonesia.

Indonesia’s Nihiwatu Hotel takes title of number one hotel in the world in Travel + Leisure’s annual World Best Hotel list for the second year in a row, 2016 & 2017.

Indonesians should be proud because Nihiwatu has defeated a series of prestigious hotels throughout the world, including hotels from America, New Zealand, Australia, Ecuador and Chile as well. How has the magazine decided the winner for best hotel in the world?

Nihiwatu Hotel was chosen through an annual survey conducted by Travel + Leisure magazine for its loyal readers.

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Every year, Travel + Leisure magazine conducts a survey to give a number of awards in the field of tourism. Well, previously Nihiwatu Hotel emerged as the winner of the 2016 World’s Best Travel Awards category. Winners in each category are determined from the survey results of loyal readers of Travel + Leisure magazine. Hotel Nihiwatu emerged as the winner after defeating the Spectator hotel in South Carolina, United States and the Huka Lodge Hotel in Taupo, New Zealand.

Why Nihiwatu Hotel can be the winner and what facilities offered there?

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Nihiwatu Hotel offers many types of lodging with different facilities. At least, there are 10 types of lodging offered there, ranging from tree-shaped villas, villas on the hilltop, villas with private pools, villas that face directly to Nihi Beach and much more. Nihiwatu Hotel also offers a variety of tour packages such as exploring waterfalls, exploring the island, seeing the lives of local residents, fishing and surfing.

What features that Nihiwatu Hotel have that distinguish it from other top hotels in the world?

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Beside standing in a strategic location and offering high-class facilities, one of the features of the Nihiwatu Hotel is the social responsibility program created by the hotel management. Some amount of hotel’s profits are always donated to the Sumba Foundation (Sumba Foundation) for the prosperity of the community around the hotel. The hotel also always invites guests to know more about the lives of residents in the vicinity. Another interesting thing is 90 percent of the hotel employees are local residents.

Hotel visitors can feel the sensation of surfing with best waves while at the same time sunbathing on exotic beaches.

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One of the most popular holiday activities for visitors to Nihiwatu Hotel is surfing the lip of the Indian Ocean. Hotel visitors can also relax on exotic private beach and away from the crowd. If you get bored with beach tours, visitors can also trekking for a while and soaking under the Matayango and Lapopu Waterfalls. The hotel is also willing to take guests who want to mingle with the locals in the villages around the hotel and in the traditional markets of Waikabubak.

If want to stay at Nihi Sumba Hotel, how much is the budget?

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In accordance with the facilities and privileges offered, the room is fairly expensive. Prices per night start at 650 US dollars for one-bed villa. While a five-room villa costs around 12,000 US dollars. If entering high season like June-October and December-January, the price can be doubled.

Finally, Nihiwatu can be reached from anywhere as long as depart from Denpasar, Bali.

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The journey to Nihiwatu Hotel in Sumba is not difficult. You just have to take a flight twice from Jakarta or from other big cities. The important thing is, you have to transit in Denpasar, Bali. From Denpasar, you fly again in about 1.5 hours to West Sumba. From Tambolaka airport, West Sumbawa, you still have to go by road about 1.5 hours. The long journey is guaranteed not to be bored because you will see many beautiful scenery along the way.

After seeing a little review above, it’s no wonder that Nihiwatu Hotel was chosen as the best hotel in the world. In essence, the concept of their service is indeed extraordinary. They not only offer comfortable rooms and beautiful views, but also friendly service to guests. They also do not merely think about business interests, but also foster the spirit of community development in Sumba region and surrounding areas.

The post Get to Know Nihiwatu Sumba Hotel appeared first on Authentic Indonesia.