About Sukarara
Sukarara is a renowned traditional weaving village in Central Lombok, famous for its exquisite Sasak textiles, particularly the intricate Songket fabric. The village is a living museum where the age-old tradition of hand-weaving is meticulously preserved and passed down through generations.
Here, you can witness the entire weaving process, from preparing the cotton threads and dyeing them with natural colors to the complex technique of creating patterns on the loom. Sasak women, often seen weaving in front of their traditional houses, are the custodians of this rich cultural heritage.
Sukarara is not just a place to buy souvenirs; it's an immersive cultural experience where you can learn about the significance of each motif and the dedication required to produce these beautiful textiles. Visitors are often invited to try their hand at weaving, offering a deeper appreciation for the craft.
Weaving Process
- 1 Thread Preparation - Cotton threads are spun and prepared for dyeing.
- 2 Dyeing - Threads are dyed using natural pigments from plants and minerals.
- 3 Pattern Creation (Ikat) - Threads are tied and dyed to create intricate patterns before weaving.
- 4 Weaving - Using traditional backstrap looms, women meticulously weave the threads into fabric.
- 5 Finishing - Fabrics are sometimes adorned with gold or silver threads for Songket.
Experience & Activities
Weaving Demonstrations
Observe skilled Sasak women demonstrating the traditional weaving process, from preparing threads to creating intricate patterns on the loom.
Try Weaving
Participate in a short weaving session and experience the challenge and artistry of creating a small piece of Sasak fabric yourself.
Souvenir Shopping
Purchase authentic Sasak textiles, including Songket, Ikat, and other woven products, directly from the artisans.
Cultural Immersion
Gain insights into the traditional Sasak way of life and the cultural significance of weaving in their community.
Visitor Information
Hours & Best Time to Visit
- Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Best visited in the morning (9-11 AM) for active weaving demonstrations.
- Allow 1-2 hours for your visit.
Location & Transportation
- Located in Central Lombok, near Praya.
- Approx. 20-30 minutes drive from Lombok International Airport (LOP).
- Easily accessible by car or scooter.
- Often combined with visits to Sade Village and other cultural sites.
Quick Facts
Location
Central Lombok, near Praya
Type
Cultural Village / Handicrafts
Best For
Cultural experiences, traditional crafts, shopping
Recommended Duration
1-2 hours
Entrance Fee
Small donation appreciated (Rp 10,000-20,000)
Weaving Workshop Fee
Varies, inquire on site
Tour Packages
Sukarara is a popular stop on cultural tours of Lombok. Consider our recommended packages:
View Packages