Facts About Baduy Banten Tribe That People Rarely Know

Pangandaran Travel – Baduy Banten tribe is a native Indonesian tribe who lives at the foot of the Kendeng mountains, precisely in Kanekes Village, Leuwidamar District, Lebak Regency, Banten. The consistency of the local community who still maintains the culture and customs of their ancestral heritage well attracts a lot of attention from outsiders. Physically, the stature of the Baduy people is similar to that of the Sundanese in general. In their daily life, they use Sundanese with the Banten dialect. Then, what distinguishes them from outsiders? Here are 5 facts about the Baduy Banten tribe that people rarely know.

1. Divided into Outer Baduy and Inner Baduy

The Baduy tribe is divided into two, namely the inner Baduy who live in the forest and the outer Baduy who live around the location where the inner Baduy lives. The most striking difference between the two can be seen from the way they dress. The outside Baduy generally wear black clothes while the inside Baduy wear all white clothes.

2. Still Sticking To The Customs And Traditions Of Our Ancestors

Besides still maintaining local wisdom, the Baduy are known to uphold the traditions of their ancestors. That is why, the daily lifestyle of this tribe, especially the inner Baduy, is very different from that of the outside community.
Unlike the Outer Baduy, the Inner Baduy don’t know much about foreign culture, such as money, schools, and technology. Therefore, it is understandable that they cannot write and read.

3. Inner Baduy has three villages

The Baduy Inner tribe has three different villages, namely Cibeo, Cikeusik, and Cikertawarna villages. Cibeo Village is the most open place for tourists to stay. However, local rules are still applied and must be obeyed by visitors, such as not being allowed to take photos.

Visitors must use natural toiletries without chemicals. The Baduy tribe also used to bathe at several points of the river, including latrines, scrubbing their bodies with stones, and brushing their teeth with coconut fibers.

4. The shape of the house does not determine the wealth of the Baduy

The wealth of the Baduy is not visible from the shape of the house they live in, because their houses are similar to each other. What makes a person considered richer than other residents is the amount of brass pottery stored in the house. The status of the family is higher if they have a lot of pottery in their home.

5. Always Walk When Traveling

When traveling, the Baduy of Banten are not allowed to use vehicles such as bicycles, motorbikes, let alone cars. This condition makes the Baduy seem alienated from the outside community. They always walk everywhere, including when selling crops or handicrafts to the city.