Predominantly Catholic and heavily influenced by the Portuguese, there are many examples of a strong European cultural heritage, like the easter procession held in Larantuka, and the Royal regalia of the former king in Maumere. Formerly known as the Sandal Wood Island, Sumba is now famous for its horses and a superb style of ikat cloth. Spirits, both ancestral and natural, are worshipped. West sumba is famous its enormous megalithic tombs and traditional thatched and peaked huts raised on stilts. Many traditional ceremonies, all paying homage to the spirit, take place from July to October, including the building of 'adat or traditional houses.
Burial ceremonies require the sacrifice of hundreds of pigs, water buffaloes, horses, and dogs.
Timor is the Principal island in the province in terms of population and its is here that the provincial capital of Kupang is located. Timor is rich in culture, beautiful scenery, and magnificent wildlife. The isolated communities have developed a variety of architectural styles. Unlike other parts of East Nusa Tenngara, the roads in Timor are generally good and public transportation is relatively well developed. Kupang is the gateway to Nusa Tenggara with regular, direct flights to and from Darwin in Australia as well as with rest of the archipelago.