Welcome to
"Alor and Lembata Islands"...
"Even today, Alor and Lembata, do not seam to
belong to the 20th century."
Dr. Kal Muller
Alor Island - Moko Drums:
Ponder on the existence of the Moko drums, which are not found in large numbers anywhere else in Indonesia and can be traced back to the Dongson period in Vietnam around 350 BC and you start to realize that Alor is truly a land lost in time. Visit and enjoy Alor in its unspoiled state while you still can.
Alor traditional culture has been influenced over the ages by the Indian, Chinese and Javanese traders as well as by the Islamic and Christian religions.
This can be seen in the silk thread woven into the original weavings and the mix of Mosques and Christian churches dotted throughout the Island.
Lembata Island - Whaling and more:
Lembata island is known throughout the world as the home of traditional whaling but what is not known is that the people of this Island are especially rich in cultural tradition.
The beautiful rich Ikat weavings are entirely made from home grown cotton, spun and dyed by the weaver. These cloths are still important as they are exchanged during marriage for Ivory tusks between the two families.
Lembata Island - Lamalera Village:
The village of Lamalera located on the southern tip of Lembata island is the home of a traditional whale hunting community.
Here, Sperm Whales have been hunted for centuries using all hand made equipment, their spears, rope and boats are all made in the village.
The boats are without motors and the harpooner must jump from the boat to implant his harpoon in to the whale to ensure success. All parts of the whale are either consumed or traded with other Islanders for corn or other food.
While whale hunting is not generally condoned by modern societies, when you consider the ancestral links, the primitive equipment used and the importance to the people of Lamalera it is understandable that this traditional hunting has been sanctioned by the United Nations.
Hotels, Restaurants and more...
We have compiled a list of hotels, restaurants and other useful tourist information for Alor and Lembata Islands.
This page is by no way complete and we are always updating it, so please excuse any omissions or irregularities. Please let us know of any information that you feel should be represented here.