Tana Toraja
South Sulawesi
South Sulawesi
For many years, the burial rites in Tana Toraja have marveled tourists and anthropologists from around the world. Torajans are among the few tribes who put the event of death on a pedestal, preserving the deceased at home for weeks, months, even years until the family could afford throwing a grand feast. In fact, some people save money their whole life just for their funeral. Once held, the celebration would last for days and—depending on the social status of the departed—would display mass buffalo and pig slaughtering. The body is then finally buried either in a small cave, inside a hollow tree, or left hanging from a cliff.
Besides this unique culture, be prepared for a breathtaking scenery of Southern Sulawesi and its majestic cliffs during the 10-hour drive from Makassar international airport. If you are an enthusiast of the ‘vertical world’, we can arrange a rock-climbing session on the way back to Makassar.
Besides this unique culture, be prepared for a breathtaking scenery of Southern Sulawesi and its majestic cliffs during the 10-hour drive from Makassar international airport. If you are an enthusiast of the ‘vertical world’, we can arrange a rock-climbing session on the way back to Makassar.
Waruga Ancient Tombs
North Sulawesi
North Sulawesi
Discover the ancient civilization legacy of Waruga, a collection of 144 stone tombs gathered from the local people’s backyards in 1917. Inside the sarcophagi, the remains are placed in a squatting position and facing the north—the direction of whom indigenous Minahasa people believe to be their ancestors, the Mongolians.One big Waruga can hold up to 7 bodies, usually a whole family. You will notice that on the newer tombs, the epitaphs describe the profession of the people stored inside, such as nurse, leaders, and shaman. The stone graves, which date back some 400 to 1,200 years ago, keep not only the locals, but also people of Portuguese and Dutch origins. This is perhaps the reason why Queen Juliana and Queen Beatrix of Holland visited the Waruga in 1971 and 1995, respectively. This tour is best combined with Whitewater Rafting due to area proximity.
Other Cultural Events
North Sulawesi
For a full description of the regular cultural events showcased in Manado, please go to Manado Calendar of Events.
