Sumba, one of the poorest islands in Indonesia, is home to villagers that still make bloody sacrifices each to keep the spirits happy and bring a good harvest.
Photo © iStock/christophe_cerisier
Location
Sumba, Indonesia
Dates
During February and March; the timing is determined by the arrival of a type of sea worm called
Description
A riotous tournament between two teams of spear-wielding, ikat-clad horsemen, the Pasola has to be one of Asia’s most extravagant, and bloodiest, harvest festivals. Taking the form of a ritual battle, it represents not so much a quarrel between opposing forces as a need for human blood to be
Before the Pasola can begin, priests in full ceremonial dress must first wade into the ocean to examine the
Level of Participation
1 – this is a blood sport - so sit back and let others do the hurting.
Essentials
Pasola takes place in four areas: Kodi and Lamboya (February) and Wanokaka and Gaura (March). Call hotels in Waingapu or Waikabubak to find out the approximate dates before
Other Local Attractions
Sumba has one of Indonesia’s richest tribal traditions, from its wonderful ikat to timeless traditional villages only now opening up to tourism.
More Info: Tourism Indonesia
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