Sumbanese ikat textiles are a unique and beautiful art form found on the island of Sumba, created using natural dyes and ancient weaving techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation. Ikat weaving is a valuable part of the island’s cultural heritage and a testament to the skill and artistry of the Sumbanese people. At NIHI, we give talented artisans a platform to earn a living to support their families.
If you are interested in learning this ancient art, they would be more than honored to teach you. Please inquire first with the Front Office so that we can make arrangements for you to join them.
The process of making these beautiful textiles is long and labor-intensive. Completing a single piece of cloth can take months or even years.
Textiles are traditionally used for ceremonial purposes, such as weddings and funerals, but they are also worn as everyday clothing and are often used as gifts or to decorate homes. Special ikat pieces can be found throughout NIHI®.
Women from nearby villages visit NIHI® throughout the week to settle in at the Pasar Sumba near the Menara and down by the NIHI Boutique on the beach, and weave traditional Sumbanese ikats, as well as bracelets, placemats, baskets, boxes, and containers made of pandanus or palm leaves.
Our weekly complimentary activities specially designed for the children.
Hunt for shells, create ocean-inspired art, and learn about sea turtles in a day full of marine discoveries. Your day begins at 10 AM at the Chocolate Factory, where you’ll be introduced to the theme of the day. From there, you’ll stroll to the Yoga Pavilion and along the beach to the Boathouse, where you’ll enjoy a captivating story about the oceans and marine life. During this scenic walk, collect shells to create your own arts and crafts.
In the afternoon, join us a t 3 PM for the Turtle Lovers Activity, where you can learn more about these fascinating creatures and their conservation.
Join us at 10 AM at the Chocolate Factory for an engaging day focused on the rich culture of Sumba. We’ll kick off with storytelling about Sumbanese horses and their cultural significance, followed by a visit to the Sandalwood Stables, where children can interact with ponies and learn about their care and diet. Next, we’ll explore biodiversity during an Insect Exploration session, where kids will use bug-catching nets to observe local insects like praying mantises, learning the importance of gentle handling before releasing them back into nature.
In the afternoon, at 3 PM, we’ll wrap up with a creative Garden Craft session, encouraging creativity and fun!
Join us for a vibrant cultural experience starting at 10:00 AM at the Chocolate Factory, where children will dress in traditional Sumbanese attire and learn about its significance, as well as local customs and basic Sumbanese greetings. The festivities will include a lively parade around NIHI, allowing the children to showcase their costumes while we capture memorable photos. They will then participate in a Sumbanese Dance Lesson, guided by a skilled instructor who will teach them basic dance steps and introduce them to traditional music.
We’ll conclude the day at 3 PM with a fun Coconut Smoothie Making session, giving children a chance to enjoy a refreshing treat.
From storytelling and clay sculpting to playful mud fun, this day is all about connecting with the earth through creativity. The Chocolate Factory will be the meeting point at 10 AM. Here children will learn about working with clay and the story of the Sumba Man before they create their own Sumba Man figures and other clay crafts, guided by demonstrations of basic techniques.
In the afternoon, at 4 PM, we’ll have fun with mud play at the Boathouse. It’s a wonderful opportunity for creativity and cultural exploration!
Join us for an adv enturous day starting at 10 AM at the Chocolate Factory. We’ll discuss jungle safety and the importance of respecting nature while providing binoculars and magnifying glasses for our exploration. Afterward, we’ll embark on a jungle walk to search for birds, animals, and fascinating plants, enhancing our understanding of local flora and fauna.
Next, we’ll visit the food forest to learn about edible plants and harvest fresh ingredients for a delicious salad that we will prepare together.
Finally, at 3 PM, we’ll gather at Ombak to create and design our own pizzas, adding a fun culinary twist to our day.
Join us for an e xciting day filled with adventure and fun! We will kick off at 10 AM at the Chocolate Factory, where we will gather for a Treasure Hunt Briefing. Children will then explore the resort, following the clues given during the briefing to uncover hidden treasures. This engaging activity encourages teamwork and problem-solving skills. We’ll then reconvene at the Chocolate Factory for the Treasure Reveal & Party. Here, we will celebrate the winners—those who found the most treasures—and award them with certificates and prizes. Enjoy fresh juices, cookies, and cupcakes as we celebrate together!
The day will end a t 3 PM, with a delightful Chocolate Making session, where everyone can get hands-on and create their own sweet treats.
Join us for a creative and fun-filled day starting at 10 AM at the Chocolate Factory, where we will kick off with a Palms Crafts Workshop. We’ll showcase examples of beautiful crafts made from palm leaves to inspire the children so they can make their own origami figures, along with fish, balls, and hats to foster their creativity and skill.
In the afternoon, at 3 PM, we will gather at Ombak for a delightful Cupcake Decoration activity, where everyone can unleash their creativity while decorating cupcakes.
Feel free to contact us if you need any further information
