Explore the Hidden Treasures of West Sumbawa: From Buffalo Racing to Pristine Beaches

Published on November 24, 2025

West Sumbawa, in NTB, Indonesia, encourages the practice of the cultural activity “barapan kebo,” or “buffalo racing,” to promote the area’s cultural tourism. Tourism West Sumbawa has pledged to practice the cultural activity as it is a major cultural event which pays tribute to the agricultural heritage of the island.

Buffalo racing is a 100-year-old tradition in West Sumbawa, where teams of buffaloes pull a cart and race within a set course. The event is celebrated and loved within the community and by tourists. The sponsors of the event hope to promote tourism and preserve the cultural heritage of West Sumbawa, but the event is mostly to provide a unique cultural experience for the tourists.

The Importance of Buffalo Racing in West Sumbawa

Barapan kebo has been synonymous with Sumbawa culture for decades. Buffaloes–the primary animals of farming in Sumbawa–were used in a farming ritual for a celebration of the harvest season. Buffaloes used for farming were incorporated into the tradition. A spectacle of speed and skill was created for entertainment as the tradition evolved into a competitive event. Buffalo racing season usually coincides with a few of the cultural festivals or harvest celebrations in Sumbawa and West Sumbawa.

The racing event is more than just a sport–it is a celebration of community. Different villages and backgrounds come together for the celebration of the event. Spectators come to witness the excitement of the parade of teams as the community supports thier village. The event is also a showcase of the local race and animal training as farmers and jockeys partner with thier trained animals.

Increased Interest from Tourists

Barapan kebo, or Buffalo Racing, has gained recognition and interest from both domestic and international tourists over the years. Buffalo Racing has gained a spot in the calendar of events in West Sumbawa. Tourists are attracted to the thrill of the race and the chance to witness this extraordinary cultural event. The event aids in the promotion of the region’s agricultural practices and traditional sporting activities in a manner that is immensely valuable, and offers a truly unique experience that differentiates from conventional tourism activities.

Barapan kebo is considered a cultural tourism event alongside Sumbawa’s beaches, national parks, and cultural sites. West Sumbawa is attempting to diversify its tourism offerings. The promotion of the Buffalo Racing event and the other tourist attractions is expected to draw eco-tourism, cultural tourism, and adventure tourism visitors.

Incorporating Tradition into Modern Tourism

The provincial government is developing new opportunities in the tourism industry by promoting cross-selling opportunities with Buffalo racing tourism. In addition to the races, tourists can enjoy Sumbawa dances, traditional music, and handicraft exhibits. Visitors can tour the culturally rich and scenic West Sumbawa and the region’s natural attractions, including the beaches, waterfalls, and mountain landscapes.

The authorities have been improving regional tourism infrastructure, including access to key points for the buffalo races and other attractions. These efforts include transport improvements, the development of new lodging, and the construction of amenities and services to ensure an enjoyable visit for tourists.

Sustainable Tourism Practices

Barapan Kebo is one of the tourism attractions in West Sumbawa which the government is trying to promote while making sure the environment is protected, along with the people’s way of life. Since Sumbawa has embraced tourism, the government is trying to make eco-tourism, including the preservation of the area’s land and indigenous culture, part of the tourism strategy.

In addition, the buffalo races also promote the region’s agricultural practices and the area’s sustainable farming. The audience is encouraged to buy products of the local artisans, as well as the local foods, which helps the economy of West Sumbawa.

Visiting West Sumbawa for Barapan Kebo

The best time for outdoor events at West Sumbawa and for experiencing Barapan Kebo, is the annual dry season held in the months of August to October. Barapan Kebo coincides with the harvesting season and is marked with Buffalo racing, traditional ceremonies with dancers, musicians and food vendors. seeking a quiter experience Sumbawa is home to eco tourism, mountain and beach trekking, and snorkeling, which beach eco tourism and mountain trekking, may eco tourism, , snorkeling, and trekking.

Water sports and nature activites are a major draw to the area with Sumbawa National Park, wildlife watching for it’s rich biodiversity and several snorkling, swimming, and surfing at the popular beaches of Sekongkang and Batu Dewa.

Conclusion

The promotion of buffalo racing in Sumbawa is a part of the explanding tourism in the region. Unique cultural attractions, coupled with the natural setting of the area, and adventure tourism Sumbawa West is now a major and differnt tourism area. With the promotion of sustainable tourism, and local customs, the area is now poised to and is of of Indoneisa’s to emerging travel destinations.