Main Jaran Performance in Sumbawa Regency, West Nusa Tenggara Province

The richness in natural attractions and culture makes Sumbawa Regency famous among tourists. As for the reference, the region offers a unique performance or event called Main Jaran. In terms of name, “Main” means play while “Jaran” means horse. It is similar to a regular horse race, actually. The only difference is the absence of betting and sophisticated facilities. That means both the participants and audience conduct it in a traditional and modest way. Despite the fact, everyone looks happy and satisfied with this Indonesia culture.

The Nuance
As mentioned before, Main Jaran is done traditionally. Another difference is that the locals use only Sumba horses for racing. The riders even wear regular clothes while riding the horse! They wear a helmet and goggles too, though. As for the arena, it is an open field and features wooden fences. The audience watches the race from outside the fences, and they are allowed to take photos while watching. What about the nuance? It offers both interesting and soothing ambiance! Thanks to the beautiful mountainous panoramas on the background.

Watching Main Jaran Performance
In a nutshell, Main Jaran looks similar to that of regular horse races. However, the purpose of the event is to entertain and unify the audience. That means tourists should not expect betting while watching the race, later. As an alternative, they can simply take photos while watching it. Not to mention they have the chance to learn more about the attribute and procession. They can get thorough information regarding the race from a village or local guide later, so don’t worry.

Main Jaran’s prime allure is not only the race, but it also has other attractions. For instance, tourists can learn the names and functions of the attributes. For instance, there is Jombe. This beautiful colorful thread beautifies horses’ face and neck! No wonder, these horses look more attractive than those of regular race. Other interesting items are Tali Kancing, Kili, and Lapek. Tourists can learn more about these items from the locals, later. Moreover, they have the chance to take selfies with both the jokey and horses!

The next important thing to know is related to class. The committee may categorize those horses depending on the experience and size, after all. The purpose is to avoid handicaps, so all participants can compete fairly. So, what is next? Later, after the race, tourists are allowed to talk to the jokey and approach the horses! It gives them an opportunity to learn more about Main Jaran and some techniques from those jokey, in fact.

Nearby Attractions

• Istana Dalam Loka
• Splash Waterpark
• Wisata alam Semongkat
• Batu Bulan Dam

How to Get There
From Jakarta City (Soekarno – Hatta International Airport), a flight to Sumbawa Besar City takes approximately 4 hours or more depending on the weather. Their destination is none other than Sultan Muhammad Kaharuddin III Airport. After arriving at Sumbawa regency, they must find a local guide first who can show the exact date and location where Main Jaran is performed. Have no worries. It may take some time, but it would worth the effort.

Where to Stay

• Dewi Hotel
• Samawa Rea Hotel
• Balong Hotel