Pasola Festival Sumba
- 4 Days 3 Nights
- Cultural
Easy
The Pasola Festival in Sumba is one of the most fascinating and unique festivals in the world! Every year Sumba people celebrate the start of the harvest season through this traditional event. It is a fascinating mix of ancient mythology, horsemanship, and intense competition. In addition to its beautiful landscape and beaches, the well-preserved culture and traditions of Sumba are also getting noticed by people around the world.
Pasola Festival 2024 Schedule
This annual festival is held around February and March. The first round is in the Western region of Sumba, and the second in the Eastern region. Around Kodi, the festival is in the villages of Wainyapu and Lamboya, whilst the Pasola in the East takes place around the Wanukaka region. The good news is the 2004 Pasola’s schedule for several villages has been released.
In February, it starts on the 3rd, at Homba Kalayo. Then on February 5, at Bondo Kawango. The next day on Feb 6, at two villages: Rara Winyo and Lamboya.
In March it starts at Maliti Bondo Ate village on the 3rd. Then continue at Waiha village on the 4th, and at Wainyapu on the 5th of March.
Pasola History and Mythology
The word Pasola means ‘spear-throwing’ in the Sumbanese language, and this festival has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. According to local mythology, the Pasola Festival originated from a story of two powerful spirits who battled each other in the sky. Their conflict resulted in a rain of spears thrown to the earth, which became the inspiration for the festival. Over the years, Pasola has evolved into an exciting event that showcases the horsemanship skills of local tribesmen as they duel each other with wooden spears
For the local people of Sumba, Pasola is more than a mere attraction. It is a feast day as they can meet their relatives who live outside the village. They came in from other parts of Sumba Island, in droves to celebrate this festival.
So, grab your next flight to Sumba and experience a once-in-a-lifetime moment to watch the Pasola Festival. Contact us for more details.
Arrived at Tambolaka Airport. Meet our guide and we’ll drive to the Kodi area to visit Ratenggaro Village and Weekuri Lagoon.
Drive to the Pasola site in Lamboya-West Sumba (or another Pasola site where it fits your date).
Visit Lapopu waterfall, Praijing Village, and sunset at Marosi Beach.
Drive to Tambolaka Airport to catch a flight back home or to your next destination.
