Keindahan Alam dan Kearifan Kampung Naga Tasikmalaya

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the experience of exploring Kampung Naga in Tasikmalaya, Indonesia. This traditional village offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural wisdom, showcasing a lifestyle in harmony with nature.

Step 1: Reaching Kampung Naga

• Location and Distance

  • Kampung Naga is located approximately 30 kilometers from Tasikmalaya city.
  • It is situated in a valley beneath the road connecting Garut and Tasikmalaya.

• Accessing the Village

  • To enter the village, you need to walk about 500 meters from the entrance.
  • Prepare for a steep descent, as you will navigate 444 steps down to reach the village.

Step 2: Understanding the Name

• Origin of the Name
  • The name "Naga" does not refer to a dragon but comes from the Sundanese word "Nagawir," meaning "in the gorge."

Step 3: Observing the Natural Environment

• Sounds and Scenery
  • Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the sounds of chirping birds and the rushing Ciwulan River, especially after rainfall.
  • Experience the tranquility of the wind rustling through the leaves.

Step 4: Exploring Village Structure

• Outer Area

  • The outer area features various buildings, including:
    • Saung (traditional huts)
    • Jamban (sanitation facilities)
  • These facilities are built with respect to nature and community needs.

• Inner Area

  • The inner area consists of residential homes, separated from the outer area by a wooden fence woven in a crisscross pattern.

Step 5: Traditional Practices

• Saung Lisung

  • Visit the Saung Lisung, a wooden structure on a pond where women traditionally pound rice.

• Sanitation Practices

  • The villagers believe sanitation facilities should be outside the home, reflecting their connection to nature.

Step 6: Cultural Hub of the Village

• Central Gathering Spot

  • The central area acts as a communal space or "alun-alun" where villagers gather.

• Bale Patemon

  • Enter Bale Patemon, the meeting hall that showcases:
    • Traditional musical instruments
    • Cultural displays
  • This is also a space for community meetings and events.

Step 7: Interacting with Residents

• Community Life

  • Engage with the local children and learn about their daily lives.

• Electricity and Lifestyle

  • Kampung Naga does not have electricity. The villagers prefer to maintain their traditional lifestyle without the burden of modern electricity.

Step 8: Visiting Local Craftsmen

• Meet Abah
  • Visit Abah, an elderly craftsman specializing in sharp tools.
  • Despite being over 80 years old, he skillfully creates knives, machetes, and saws.

Conclusion

Visiting Kampung Naga offers a profound insight into a lifestyle that values sustainability and community. Key takeaways include the importance of living in harmony with nature, traditional practices in crafts and sanitation, and the resilience of a community that thrives without modern conveniences. If you plan to visit, prepare for a scenic trek and a warm welcome from the villagers.