There are many West Papua tribes with various cultural heritage. One of the most notable Papuan traditions is the Baliem Valley Festival. Held annually in early August, this joint celebration between three tribes is a spectacular and exciting event that displays the unique cultures of Papua. Here is everything you need to know about the festival and the three tribes that participate in it.
About Baliem Valley
Located in the heart of Papua, the Baliem Valley is surrounded by lush, steep mountains. The valley is divided by the Baliem River, which flows from Mount Trikora to the Arafura Sea. This valley is home to three indigenous tribes. The Dani tribe lives in the central area of the valley, in the middle of the Yali tribe who reside in the western part, and the Lani tribe in the south.
The Tribes of Baliem Valley
Despite its remote location, Baliem Valley is one of the most densely populated regions in West Papua Indonesia. This is because there are three large tribes that reside in the valley. Although there are similarities between them, the Dani people, the Lani people, and the Yali people each have their distinctive cultural traditions.
The Dani Tribe
The first of the West Papua tribes in Baliem Valley, the Dani people are well-known as great farmers and hunters. They hunt with weapons made of stones, animal bones, bamboo, and wood, such as spears, axes, and knives. Because of their lifestyle, many of them are skilled at weapon craftsmanship. While inter-tribal wars are unheard of nowadays, they are traditionally warriors as well.
The Lani Tribe
The Lani people are the second tribe you can meet during your West Papua travel to the Baliem Valley. While they also have a warring tradition, their livelihood mainly comes from farming. Sweet potatoes are their main food crop. The Lani women work in the fields, while the men hunt.
The Yali Tribe
Last but not least, there are the Yali people. They reside in the part of the valley that is the most difficult to reach due to the terrain. Although these people have the shortest stature compared to the other tribes, they are feared fighters. They also eat a diet consisting mainly of sweet potatoes, pandan fruits, and sago.
Baliem Valley Festival
Organized by the West Papua district of Jayawijaya, Baliem Valley Cultural Festival is held every year at the beginning of August. This is a joyous occasion in which all the diverse tribes of the Baliem Valley come together for a celebration. Though the festival also showcases traditional dance and music, the main focus is a mock war between the participating tribes.
The inter-tribal war simulation is held for two days featuring about 26 groups consisting of 30-50 fighters. This battle scene is accompanied by traditional Papuan Pikon music. Pikon is a wind instrument made of tree bark that produces a soothing sound. Because there aren’t many people skilled in this musical instrument, the Pikon performance is very special.
Other than the mock battles, the Baliem Festival also has a variety of interesting arts and cultural performances. This includes Papuan folk music and dances, pig racing, traditional games such as archery and spear throwing, and many more. Tourists can immerse themselves fully in the culture by participating in the games and even wearing koteka.
All in all, the Baliem Valley Cultural Festival is a wonderful opportunity to experience an event central to preserving and celebrating diversity. If you love to explore new cultures and want to experience the local lifestyle, do participate in this celebration by these three remarkable West Papua tribes.
