Cultural & Historical Tourism

Cultural Tourism

Rumah Adat Belitong (Belitung Traditional House)

Rumah Adat Belitong is the traditional stilt house of the Belitung people. Its architecture is influenced by Malay culture with local adaptations, built mainly from wood and roofed with either palm leaves or zinc sheets.

One of its distinctive features is the tall supporting pillars, which serve multiple purposes: protecting the house from floods and wild animals, while also allowing better air circulation to keep the house cool. Inside, the house typically consists of several sections, including a veranda, central living area, bedrooms, and a kitchen.

More than just a dwelling, the Rumah Adat Belitong reflects the cultural values of the Belitung community—togetherness, simplicity, and harmony with nature.

Today, it is often showcased as a cultural tourism site, a venue for traditional art performances, and an educational space to introduce local heritage to younger generations and visitors.

Key Features of Rumah Adat Belitong:

• Traditional stilt house made of wood.
• Roofed with palm leaves or zinc.
• High supporting pillars for protection and ventilation.
• Simple layout that reflects the community’s way of life.

Tradisi Nganggung
(Ngunggung Tradition)

The Nganggung Tradition is a unique cultural practice of the Belitung people that symbolizes togetherness and brotherhood. In this tradition, every family brings food in a large round container called a dulang, which is then gathered in one place and shared among the community.

Nganggung is usually held during religious holidays, cultural ceremonies, or important village events. It is not only a moment to share meals, but also an occasion to strengthen social bonds, foster cooperation, and preserve Belitung’s cultural identity.

For the local community, Nganggung goes beyond just dining together—it represents unity, harmony, and the spirit of mutual support.

Key Features of the Nganggung Tradition:

• Held during religious or cultural celebrations.
• Families bring food in a traditional container called dulang.
• Shared meals enjoyed collectively in the spirit of togetherness.
• A symbol of unity, brotherhood, and communal harmony.

Seni Tradisional Belitung (Traditional Arts of Belitung)

Belitung is not only famous for its natural beauty but also for its traditional arts, which are rich in cultural meaning and represent the identity of the local community. These arts are often performed during traditional ceremonies, festivals, or to welcome guests, serving as a way to preserve ancestral heritage.

Some of the well-known traditional arts of Belitung include:

• Traditional Dances of Belitung – Simple yet meaningful dance movements, often performed during traditional rituals and community celebrations.
• Dambus Music – A unique stringed instrument shaped like a bird, traditionally played with other instruments to accompany dances and songs.
• Beripat Beregong – A traditional martial performance showcasing skill and agility, usually accompanied by the beating of gongs as part of local festivities.
• Oral Traditions (Pantun & Syair) – Storytelling and poetic recitations passed down through generations, used in cultural ceremonies as well as daily life.

These traditional arts serve not only as entertainment but also as a means to strengthen community bonds, convey moral values, and preserve Belitung’s cultural identity in the face of modernization.

Kuliner Belitung
(Belitung Culinary Delights)

Beyond its natural beauty, Belitung is also renowned for its unique and flavorful traditional cuisine. Strongly influenced by Malay and coastal culture, Belitung’s dishes are known for their savory, fresh, and spice-rich taste.

Some of the most popular culinary specialties include:

• Mie Belitung – Yellow noodles served in a thick, sweet-savory broth with shrimp, potatoes, tofu, and cucumber slices.
• Gangan – A signature yellow-spiced fish soup made with freshly caught seafood.
• Berego – Steamed rice flour rolls, typically enjoyed with fish curry or coconut milk sauce.
• Laske – A Belitung-style noodle dish resembling spaghetti, cooked in a rich spiced gravy.
• Kemplang – Crispy fish crackers, a beloved local snack and side dish.
• Traditional Cakes – Such as Jungkong, Rintak, and Bingke, known for their sweet taste and soft texture.

Belitung’s culinary heritage is not only a treat for the palate but also a reflection of its cultural identity, passed down through generations.

Jejak Laskar Pelangi

Jejak Laskar Pelangi is a cultural and educational tourist destination inspired by the famous novel and film Laskar Pelangi by Andrea Hirata. It showcases the inspiring story of children in Belitung striving for education, reflecting the island’s local culture and spirit.

Visitors can explore replicas of Muhammadiyah schools, traditional houses, and interactive installations that narrate the journeys of the novel’s characters. The site also features photo galleries, merchandise, and educational workshops highlighting Belitung’s history, culture, and literacy initiatives.

This destination appeals not only to fans of the book and movie but also to travelers interested in learning about local culture and the educational spirit of Belitung’s community.

Highlights of Jejak Laskar Pelangi:

• Inspired by Andrea Hirata’s novel and film Laskar Pelangi.
• Features replicas of schools, traditional houses, and interactive installations.
• Serves as a cultural and educational center for literacy in Belitung.
• Ideal for families, students, and literature enthusiasts.

Historical Tourism

Mercusuar Pulau Lengkuas (Pulau Lengkuas Lighthouse)

Pulau Lengkuas Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse built by the Dutch in 1882. Located on Lengkuas Island, it stands approximately 62 meters tall and features 18 floors of stairs that visitors can climb to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding sea.

The lighthouse is still operational today, serving as a navigational aid for ships in Belitung waters. From the top, visitors can see nearby small islands, Belitung’s iconic granite formations, and the vast expanse of blue ocean, making it one of the best photography spots on the island.

Beyond its historical and functional significance, Pulau Lengkuas Lighthouse is also a hub for tourist activities such as snorkeling, diving, and island hopping, allowing visitors to experience both natural beauty and maritime history.

Highlights of Pulau Lengkuas Lighthouse:

• Built in 1882 by the Dutch.
• Approximately 62 meters tall with 18 floors of stairs.
• Still active as a navigational aid.
• Offers panoramic views of the sea, small islands, and granite formations.
• A center for snorkeling, diving, and island hopping activities.

Museum Kata Andrea Hirata (Andrea Hirata Word Museum)

Andrea Hirata Word Museum is Indonesia’s first literacy museum, founded by the renowned author Andrea Hirata, writer of the famous novel Laskar Pelangi. Located in Tanjung Pandan, Belitung, the museum showcases collections of inspirational words, quotes, and stories that encourage learning, creativity, and personal growth.

Visitors can explore interactive galleries, creative art installations, and reading spaces, offering an educational and entertaining experience. The museum also hosts literacy workshops, seminars, and cultural events, making it a hub for learning while enjoying local art and stories.

The Word Museum appeals not only to fans of Andrea Hirata’s works but also to travelers who want to understand the values of education, culture, and creative inspiration in Belitung’s community.

Highlights of Andrea Hirata Word Museum:

• Indonesia’s first literacy museum.
• Collections of inspirational words, quotes, and local stories.
• Interactive galleries, reading spaces, and creative art installations.
• Center for literacy workshops, seminars, and cultural events.
• An educational and cultural tourism destination.

Situs Pertambangan Timah Belitung (Belitung Tin Mining Sites)

Belitung Tin Mining Sites are an important part of Indonesia’s industrial heritage. Belitung has long been known as one of the country’s largest tin producers, and these sites bear witness to the evolution of tin mining from the colonial era to modern times.

At some locations, visitors can see old mining pits, traditional tools, and the techniques once used by miners. These sites are not only of interest to history and industrial enthusiasts but also to travelers who want to understand the role of tin mining in Belitung’s economic and cultural development.

Several mining sites have been transformed into educational and tourist destinations, featuring historical interpretations, photographs, and stories about the lives of miners in the past.

Highlights of Belitung Tin Mining Sites:

• Part of Indonesia’s industrial and historical heritage.
• Showcases old mining pits, tools, and traditional mining methods.
• Serves as an educational and historical tourist destination.
• Offers insights into the role of tin mining in local economy and culture.

Bangunan Kolonial Belitung (Colonial Buildings of Belitung)

Colonial Buildings of Belitung are remnants of the Dutch colonial era, scattered across various areas, especially in Tanjung Pandan. These structures showcase classic European architecture blended with local touches, visible in the design of facades, windows, and unique structural elements.

Beyond their historical value, many colonial buildings are now used as government offices, museums, or cultural tourism sites. They offer visitors insight into Belitung’s history, the lifestyle of its people during the colonial period, and the evolution of architectural styles over time.

Highlights of Colonial Buildings in Belitung:

• Dutch-era architectural heritage in Tanjung Pandan and surrounding areas.
• Combines classic European style with local design elements.
• Serves as a witness to colonial history and culture.
• Many are now tourist attractions, museums, or government offices.