07/04/2026
Wae Lomba is the gateway to a lush tropical forest—home to thousands of plant species and wildlife. It is also the starting point of a journey into the past, where one can experience the authentic lifestyle of the older generation of Manggarai, a way of life that still survives today.
I was there with a couple of adventurers from Singapore—urban dwellers escaping the city, seeking not just pleasure, but a deeper experience and a new perspective on life.
The trek begins at around 500 meters above sea level and climbs to 1,200 meters to reach the ancestral village of Wae Rebo. A narrow path of stone, clay, and limestone guides us upward, with seven resting points along the way.
Along the trail, the scent of dried and decaying tree trunks fills the air—a reminder that we are walking through a vast, ancient forest. At one of the stops, Nampe Bakok, we pause to take in a breathtaking view: thick clouds blanket the valleys below. The distant roar of waterfalls blends with the sounds of birds, monkeys, and other unseen creatures hidden deep within the jungle.
Upon arriving at the village gate, known as Pa’ang, a wide, open view reveals the old village—nine conical houses standing gracefully in a circular formation. It feels as though time has stood still.
We continue into the main house for a traditional welcome ceremony. Inside the dark, windowless interior, the clan leader leads a sacred ritual, chanting in an ancient language. His words are offered to the spirits of the ancestors and the guardians of the village—seeking their blessing, protection, and permission for us to enter and experience the heritage they have passed down through generations.
