Tarung Village

Tarung Village, located at the heart of Waikabubak’s old traditional market, is renowned for its rich historical and cultural heritage. Despite being surrounded by shops and modern buildings in downtown, the village maintains a serene atmosphere where traditional culture is diligently preserved amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. The village is characterized by over 40 traditional houses known as “Menara,” constructed with bamboo walls and alang roofs that stretch towards the sky, reflecting local beliefs rooted in Marapu, their ancestral faith. At the center of Tarung Village stands a clan house occupied by the Rato, the village head and traditional priest, where artifacts from Sumba’s ancestral history are carefully preserved. Typical of Sumba’s traditional architecture, each house is structured into three levels: the ground floor for livestock such as buffalo, pigs, and horses; the second floor for living quarters; and the third floor for food storage, particularly paddy. While Tarung Village is esteemed for its sacred traditions, visitors are warmly welcomed by friendly villagers eager to share their customs and interact with guests. Scattered among the houses are tombs of villagers’ relatives and families, contributing to the village’s deep-rooted sense of community and history. Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to purchase local handicrafts such as Ikat Sumba textiles and jewelry directly from villagers, further enriching their cultural experience and supporting the community’s livelihoods.