Manggarai Regency is located at the western tip of Flores Island, in East Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia. Astronomically, this region lies between 08°14’27.32″ to 08°54’57.17″ South Latitude and 120°13’41.34″ to 120°32’47.22″ East Longitude.
The boundaries of Manggarai Regency are as follows:
North: Flores Sea
East: Manggarai Timur Regency
South: Sawu Sea
West: Manggarai Barat Regency
Topography
Topographically, Manggarai Regency is a highland area dominated by rolling terrain. Approximately 38.36% of the region consists of steep slopes with an incline of ≥40% (mountainous), while 55.41% of the area has a slope gradient between 15%-40%. The remaining 6.23% consists of lowland areas with a slope gradient between 8%-15%.
Hydrology
The hydrological conditions in Manggarai Regency include water sources from groundwater, surface water, and rainfall. Groundwater is generally obtained from springs in mountainous areas, where the vegetation is still densely forested. Several major rivers flow throughout the year, including the Wae Pesi, Wae Neuring, and Wae Renca rivers, which flow northward to the Flores Sea, and the Wae Naong and Wae Reno rivers, which flow southward to the Sawu Sea.
Geographical and Cultural Uniqueness of Manggarai Regency, Flores
Wae Rebo, a World Heritage Village
Wae Rebo Village, located in the highlands of Flores Island, is surrounded by lush green mountains and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012. The village is inhabited by descendants of the Minang people from West Sumatra and is home to seven traditional cone-shaped Manggarai houses.
Caci Dance
One of the most famous dances from Manggarai is the Caci dance, which plays a significant role in the local culture. This dance is still performed at wedding celebrations and serves as a tourist attraction.
Agriculture and Industry
Manggarai Regency is renowned for its agriculture, including crops like coffee, cloves, vanilla, cocoa, and more. Additionally, the region hosts several industrial zones, including the Northern Manggarai Industrial Area, the Northern Manggarai Palm Oil Processing Area, the Northern Manggarai MSME Area, and the Northern Manggarai Agricultural Area.
Strategic Mountains
The presence of several rivers in the region originates from springs in mountains such as Mount Golo Lusang and Mount Poco Ranaka, which are vital sources of groundwater and surface water in Manggarai Regency.
Sources:
Wikipedia Bahasa Indonesia: Manggarai Regency
Kementerian Agama NTT: Overview of Manggarai Regency
Manggarai Regency Government: Getting to Know Manggarai
Liputan6.com: 6 Interesting Facts About Manggarai Regency
