Sade Village

Just a short drive from the beaches of Kuta, Sade Village offers a glimpse into the island’s indigenous Sasak culture that still shapes daily life in much of Lombok. This isn’t a stage set — it’s a real, living village where people have been carrying on centuries-old traditions for generations.

The houses are built from bamboo, thatch, and clay, with polished floors made using a mix of cow dung and mud (yes, really — it helps repel mosquitoes and keeps the floor cool). You’ll spot rice barns with pointed roofs, barefoot kids weaving through narrow lanes, and women working on hand-operated looms, spinning intricate ikat patterns with incredible skill. If you're lucky, someone might invite you into their home for a closer look or show you how the traditional wedding ceremony works, complete with local music and dress.

Sade can be touristy — especially on busy days — but the welcome is genuine and the experience, when approached respectfully, is a meaningful one. Most visits are guided by a local who’ll explain the history, customs and architecture of the village. There's no set entrance fee, but a donation is appreciated, and you'll likely be encouraged to browse the woven sarongs and shawls sold by the villagers. The textiles here are handmade and usually a better buy than those in the markets.

It’s an easy trip from Kuta, so if you’re staying in the south, it’s well worth carving out a couple of hours to stop by. Pair it with a beach visit or a stop at a local warung for a full afternoon.