If you head east from the island of Bali, you’ll come across a stretch of islands that’s packed with diversity—in both nature and culture. Welcome to the Nusa Tenggara Islands, also known as the Lesser Sunda Islands on older world maps. This island chain stretches from Bali in the west all the way to Timor in the east, and it's home to stories, communities, and traditions as vibrant as the islands themselves.
📍 Where Are the Nusa Tenggara Islands?
The Nusa Tenggara Islands are located just east of Java and Bali, forming a long arc that reaches to Timor Island. You might have heard of some of the more popular ones like Lombok, Flores, or Komodo, but not everyone knows they’re all part of one big region. Interestingly, even parts of the Maluku Province—such as the Tanimbar Islands and Southwest Islands—are considered part of Nusa Tenggara from a geological point of view.
🗺️ Borders, Countries, and Administrative Divisions
These days, most of the Nusa Tenggara Islands belong to Indonesia. But the eastern portion of Timor Island and a few nearby smaller islands make up the independent nation of Timor-Leste (East Timor). So yeah, this region isn’t just a group of islands—it’s a fascinating meeting point between two countries.
Historically, things were more centralized. After Indonesia gained independence in 1945, the whole region was grouped into one administrative province called Sunda Kecil, with its capital in Singaraja (north Bali). The name was changed to Nusa Tenggara Province in 1954, and eventually it was split into the three provinces we know today:
- Bali
- West Nusa Tenggara (NTB)
- East Nusa Tenggara (NTT)
In 1975, Indonesia integrated the eastern part of Timor Island, which became the East Timor Province. After a long and complex process, it became the independent nation of Timor-Leste in 2002.
A Region of Endless Discovery
Every island in Nusa Tenggara has something special to offer. From the spiritual and cultural heritage of Bali, the mighty volcanoes of Lombok, the pink beaches and dragons of Komodo Island, to the untouched charm of Flores—the natural beauty here is nothing short of stunning.
But it’s not just about landscapes. The cultural diversity is just as rich. Hundreds of languages, ethnic traditions, local dances, handicrafts, and ceremonies are part of everyday life in these islands.
Why It Matters
Getting to know the Nusa Tenggara Islands gives you a deeper understanding of Indonesia itself. This isn’t just a collection of tourist spots—it’s a region full of life, resilience, and transformation. Whether you’re curious about history, nature, or culture, Nusa Tenggara is a place that’s worth exploring on a deeper level.