Culture
Bawömataluo Village
The hilltop village of South Nias famous for its traditional houses and the stone jumping, hombo batu.
The village on the hill of the sun
Bawömataluo means "hill of the sun". Its two long rows of traditional wooden houses (omo hada) face each other across a stone-paved square, with the large chief's house, the omo sebua, at its heart. Carved stones and megaliths stand in front of the houses: reminders of the feasts and ceremonies that once marked a family's status.
The village is best known for hombo batu (also called fahombo), the stone jumping: young men run and leap over a stone tower about two metres high. It was once a test of courage and readiness for battle; today it is performed for ceremonies and visitors.
Visiting respectfully
Greet people with "Ya'ahowu"
Dress modestly and ask before photographing people or entering a house
A small donation or buying a carving supports the village
Performances are arranged in advance: ask us to organise one for your group
How to get there
Part of our day trip to the south: the village lies on a hill a short drive from Teluk Dalam and Lagundri Bay. Climb the long stone staircase to the village square. Please dress modestly and ask before taking photos of people.