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Why
Sulawesi
(formerly Celebes)
is special
 Sulawesi is the home of the Torajans who have one of the more interesting cultural heritages in the world.
The major
tourist draws of Tana Toraja (Torajan Land) are the remarkable burial rites,
striking architectural style and picturesque rugged-hill landscape.
Torajan burial rites
on Sulawesi
The Torajans intern their dead in chambers cut into high cliffs (see photo). They erect exposed balconies directly in front of
those chambers for displaying tau-taus (wooden effigies of the deceased). These lifelike statues gaze upon passers-by.
Weeks if not months after the burial, the
Tarajans conduct a post burial ceremony in their village. Its purpose is to honor the departed and appease his
spirit. The event can last for days and encompass hundreds of guests plus many animal sacrifices.
Tourists can
watch the event, if their request to be
invited is accepted (which often is). The tacit stipulations are that the visitor view discreetly and bring a
gift worth several dollars to help defray the cost of the occasion.
Three of the best Tana Torajan villages for
observing the tau-taus and ceremonies are Lemo, Londo and Sengalla.
Torajan
architectural style
The region's traditional houses (see below photo)
have curved roof lines and walls skillfully carved by local artisans.
The rice storage barns are photo opportunities, too. Visit the villages of Kete Kesu, Marante, Nagalls and
Palawa for fine examples of these structures.
When to visit Tana Toraja
Because most burial ceremonies are held after the harvest season, the best time to visit Tana Toraja is from
June to October. The prime season is July and August (hotel prices rise significantly and availability plummets).
Getting to
Tana Toraja from Bali
Organized three-day, two-night tours are readily available in Bali.
Independent travelers can reach Tana Toraja by
duplicating the typical tour route. First, fly from Bali to the airport near Ujung Pandang, then take an 8 to
9 hour car or mini-bus ride to Rantepao. That modest-sized town is centrally located for exploring the Tana
Torajan villages. It has hotels ranging from sub-economy to first class.
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