Flores is one of the most beautiful places in Indonesia. If you only know Indonesia for Bali then you need to explore more. Flores is considered more unique compared to other regions in Indonesia. Its distinctive cultures are the highlight of the place. There are unique festivals and bizarre rituals you can witness when visiting Flores. This place is also full of natural beauty started from stunning beaches to beautiful caves. To learn more about the culture in Flores, one of the best ways is to visit the traditional villages. There are many of them in Flores you can visit during your holiday.
Interesting traditional villages in Flores to explore
Traditional villages in Flores hold ancient culture and belief which makes them unique in lifestyle and other aspects of life. Every village also has different trademarks in cuisine, art, music, craft, etc. it never gets boring to explore traditional villages especially those located in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. Here are recommended traditional villages you should visit during your vacation in Flores:
- Todo traditional village in Manggarai is where you can find ancient home of the royal clan. A king names Mashur and his clan decided to stay at this village centuries ago. The village itself is situated high up in the mountains so you need to hike to reach the location. It is surrounded by stunning view you can enjoy all the time. There are ritual stone, and also ceremonial house used by villagers to worship their ancestors. Circular houses about 25 meter in diameter are decorated with wood carvings.
- Tutubhada is the oldest village you can visit. The houses in this village are unique. The roofs has unique shape. However, you won’t find any wall. Supporting poles consist of wood carvings and ornaments. There is always ceremony held when one of the villager build a house. The ceremony involves buffalo slaughter as sacrifice. There is also traditional boxing event you can enjoy only in this village.
- Wae Rebo village is where you can stargaze and witness the Penti festival. Located in the West Flores, this village known for its cone-shaped housing. The village is situated on an idyllic mountain so the view surrounding is beautiful. To reach the village, you need to hike for five hours. However, it is worth it once you arrive. You can stay in one of the villager’s houses. At night, you can stargaze to witness the stunning Milky Way from the hilltop. There is also the Penti festival, an annual festival about ancient culture held every November. This festival is Wae Rebo people’s New Year’s Eve.
- Watublapi village is one of ikat weaving villages in Flores. This village use the old traditional method in making ikats. The villagers use natural resources such as plants grown for the dyes and local cotton for handspun yarn. Aside from buying organic handmade souvenir in the form of ikats, you can also learn how to make it form the villagers. This is one of the best way to support local community.
