Tarung and Waitabar villages

Waikabubak is the second largest city on the island of Sumba, after Waingapu. Some call it Waikabukak city but keep in mind that this “city” is inhabited by about 25,000 inhabitants, so don’t expect shopping centers or fancy food corners. In fact, when it comes to food you’d better abandon any expectations, especially if you’re a vegetarian. But who cares, after all, it’s not the culinary delicacies that allured you to Waikabubak. The town has three main attractions: Prai Klembung, Tarung and Waitabar villages. And they are really something! All three located within the town, on the hill tops, predominating over the ordinary modern houses. We are surprised no episode of “Game of Thrones” or “Lord of the Rings” was ever filmed here, as honestly, they make a ready-to-use breathtaking scenography.

Holy Month (Wulla Poddu)

During our visit in Tarung and Waitabar villages, we accidentally stepped into the Wulla Poddu (the Holy Month) celebration and were allowed to stay and watch the ceremonies, for which we are grateful.

Stone graves in Waikabubak

On your way to Tarung and Waitabar villages, you’ll pass the huge stone graves with clever animal motives (e.g. the front of a grave is a bull’s head with horns, the back is… well.. it’s back). They are fascinating, take some time to study them and notice the details.

To learn more about the places in Sumba we liked the most, go to What to see in Sumba, Indonesia.

And if you want to know how to see all these places in less than a week, see our detailed itinerary here: How to plan a trip to Sumba, Indonesia.