North Toraja

North Toraja is an administrative region in South Sulawesi with mountainous terrain that rises steeply from coastal lowlands to high peaks. The landscape features deep valleys, rolling hills, and scattered traditional villages connected by winding roads through the highlands.

The region was established in 2008 when it separated from the original Toraja Regency, creating a new administrative district centered in Rantepao. This division reflected changing governance needs and regional development patterns in South Sulawesi.

The Toraja people practice distinctive burial customs with graves built into trees and cliff faces throughout the mountainous terrain. These traditions shape the spiritual and social fabric of life across the region.

Visitors arrive via the international airport in Makassar, followed by a long mountain drive with winding roads through the highlands. The journey offers changing scenery and smaller towns serve as stops along the route to the main settlements.

Traditional Tongkonan houses dot the villages with distinctive upturned roofs decorated with buffalo horns and intricate carvings. These structures serve as both family homes and symbols of social standing within the community.

Location: South Sulawesi

Capital city: Rantepao

Elevation above the sea: 1,150 m

Shares border with: North Luwu, Luwu, Palopo, Tana Toraja, Mamuju

Website: http://tanatorajakab.go.id

GPS coordinates: -3.00000,120.00000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:04