Reba Traditional Ceremony of East Nusa Tenggara Province

Beautiful beaches make East Nusa Tenggara Province is well-known among travelers and passionate nature lovers. Is that all? Of course, it is not. For instance, it has Ikat Fabric and interesting culture like Reba Ceremony. For tourists, the best place to watch this unique tradition is in Patiala Dete Village, West Laboya Sub-District actually. That means tourists need to get to West Sumba Regency when spending holidays in East Nusa Tenggara Province. For the information, this tradition belongs to Bajawa People who come from Flores Island. These days, it also becomes another attraction that tourists can enjoy when visiting NTT.

The Nuance
In terms of nuance, Reba Ceremony is both fun and festive. It represents the cultural value of the local people and becomes a medium to strengthen their bond. The participants may wear traditional clothes, featuring various unique ornaments like a tassel, weapons, etc. As for the venue, it is at an open field and led by one person (usually the eldest villager). What about tourists? Well, they are allowed to watch the ceremony from afar but they are not allowed to disturb the procession or cause loud noise while watching.

Exploring Reba Traditional Ceremony
Since tourists don’t have much information regarding Reba Ceremony, they should consider hiring a local guide when heading to East Nusa Tenggara Province. At least, the service may help them learn some history and trivia related to the event. For example, it is about the meaning of it. According to the locals, Reba can be either the ancient local religion or a form of gratitude towards the good due to abundant crops (in agriculture terms). Some villagers also describe Reba as the New Year event which is similar to that of Chinese’s Imlek though.

Regardless of the variety of description of Reba Ceremony, both locals and tourists consider it as a local festival and an opportunity to retain traditional culture for generations. The best thing is that more people become more concerned about it and they want to promote Reba to other tourists. During the event, the local families may gather in front of their house to discuss numerous issues and solve those problems together. Later, they conduct eating together and clean the environment mutually.

It is true tourists are allowed to join the ceremony, but they must not cause havoc when watching. Taking pictures is allowed, but they should turn off the flash feature of the camera. Also, littering is definitely prohibited!

Nearby Attractions

• Komodo National Park
• Kelimutu National Park
• Pink Beach
• Loh Liang
• Lasiana Beach
• Kelimutu Lake
• Wae Rebo Village
• Batu Cermin Cave
• Tarung Village
• Sirung Mountain

How to Get There
Well, the main destination is none other than Tambolaka City in West Sumba Regency. Those who come from Jakarta City can take advantage of an airplane service at Soekarno – Hatta International Airport and head to Tambolaka Airport right away. Have no worries. The flight only takes about 4 hours and 55 minutes. Once arriving at Tambolaka, their last destination is Patiala Dete Village where the ceremony is often performed.

Where to Stay

• Cendana Hotel
• Pelita Hati Hotel
• Carvita Hotel
• Greenia Hotel
• Jolly Hotel
• Cahaya Bapa Hotel