Manggarai Regency facts for kids

Manggarai Regency is a special area in the East Nusa Tenggara Province of Indonesia. It is located on the western part of Flores Island. This regency is like a county or district, and it has its own local government.

Manggarai Regency is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including mountains, forests, and coastal areas. Many people live here, and they have a rich culture and history. The capital city of Manggarai Regency is Ruteng.

Geography and Climate

Manggarai Regency is mostly made up of hills and mountains. The highest peak is Mount Ranaka. The regency also has some flat areas, especially near the coast. Its location on Flores Island means it is surrounded by the ocean, with many small islands nearby.

Weather in Manggarai

The climate in Manggarai Regency is tropical. This means it is warm all year round. There are two main seasons: the wet season and the dry season. The wet season usually brings a lot of rain, while the dry season is sunnier. This climate is perfect for growing many types of plants.

People and Culture

The people living in Manggarai Regency are mainly from the Manggarai ethnic group. They have their own unique language, called Manggarai, and many interesting traditions. Family and community are very important to them.

Traditional Houses

One famous part of Manggarai culture is their traditional houses. These houses are often round or cone-shaped, especially in villages like Wae Rebo. They are built using natural materials and have a special meaning for the community.

Music and Dance

Music and dance are also a big part of Manggarai culture. They have traditional dances that tell stories or celebrate important events. These dances often involve special costumes and musical instruments.

Economy and Livelihood

Most people in Manggarai Regency work in farming. The fertile land and tropical climate help them grow many different crops.

Main Crops

The main crops grown here include rice, corn, and coffee. Coffee from Manggarai is especially famous and is exported to other places. Farmers also grow spices like cloves and vanilla.

Tourism in Manggarai

Tourism is becoming more important for the economy. Many visitors come to see the beautiful landscapes, traditional villages, and unique culture. Places like Wae Rebo village and Spiderweb Rice Fields are popular attractions.

History of Manggarai

The history of Manggarai Regency goes back a long time. Before Indonesia became independent, the area was ruled by local kingdoms. Later, it became part of the Dutch colonial administration.

Becoming a Regency

Manggarai Regency was officially established as a regency in 1958. This was after Indonesia gained its independence. Since then, it has continued to develop and grow as a part of the East Nusa Tenggara Province.