PASOLA FESTIVAL TOURS
The Pasola Festival is only found on Sumba Island, and it features horsemen from opposing groups fighting with spears. This festival is held yearly in February and March in the regencies of South West Sumba (Kodi) and West Sumba (Lamboya, Wanokaka, and Gaura. The schedule of Pasola is determined by the priest, or Rato, in Sumba, and it is held on a good day to thank the ancestors for their lives and to ask for fertility for the land. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the fascinating Pasola Festival and immerse yourself in the unique culture of Sumba. Booking one of our tours, you will experience this ancient traditional thanksgiving ceremony for yourself. Contact us now to book your spot and create unforgettable memories at Pasola Festival in Sumba island!
Festival Pasola Kodi (4D/3N)
This festival is held yearly in February and MarchExperience the Thrilling Spectacle of Pasola Kodi - Where Tradition Meets Adventure. It is a unique cultural event that combines both ritual and sport!
Festival Pasola Lamboya (4D/3N)
This festival is held yearly in February and MarchExperience the thrilling ancient tradition of Pasola in Lamboya Festival - where daring horsemen engage in a battle of spears, accompanied by colorful festivities and cultural celebrations.
Festival Pasola Wanokaka (4D/3N)
This festival is held yearly in February and MarchDon't miss the opportunity to experience the Thrill of Pasola Festival in this 4 days tour: Where Warriors Ride and Javelins Fly in Wanokaka. Enjoy Thrilling displays of bravery and tradition at the Pasola Festival in Wanokaka.
Pasola Festival Tours
Pasola is an ancient traditional thanksgiving ceremony held in Western Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara. The ceremony involves more than 50 men on horses, divided into two teams from upper and lower villages. The Instante, a traditional clergyman head, prays for both teams before starting the game by throwing a spear. The riders then race their horses and repeatedly throw wooden spears at each other, symbolizing a blood sacrifice. The Pasola festival is held only once a year in February or March, depending on the Rato’s decision. It takes place in Lamboya and Kodi and coincides with the Nyale festival. The horses used in the ceremony are ridden by skilled and specially selected men wearing traditional costumes. The people of Sumba believe that Pasola helps balance their physical and spiritual needs and has a close connection to their agricultural practices. Bloodshed is believed to symbolize prosperity, and those who die during the ceremony are considered to have lost touch with their customs. Despite the risks involved, Pasola is embraced by the community and celebrated in a hospitable and sportive manner.
