RRI.CO.ID, Central Lombok - The annual Bau Nyale festival drew a massive influx of visitors to the shores of Seger Beach in Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, over the weekend of February 7–8, 2026, turning the Mandalika Special Economic Zone into a bustling center of cultural activity. 

Thousands of local and international tourists joined local residents in the hunt for nyale (sea worms), traditional symbols believed to be the reincarnation of Princess Mandalika. By arriving as early as Saturday night and staying through Sunday's dawn with their harvesting gear, such as nets, buckets, and flashlights, the participants demonstrated the enduring appeal of this unique event, which successfully blends spiritual beliefs with the region’s growing status as a premier global travel destination.

"The nyale that came out today are few," said Koko, a resident from Cakranegara, Mataram City, on Sunday, February 8, 2026, as quoted by Antara. 

He noted that catching the worms is not as easy as it appears on social media, where they seem plentiful and simple to scoop up. Koko explained that the reality on the ground is quite difficult, requiring immense patience and sharp eyes due to the darkness. 

"I searched for nyale for three hours and got very little. I thought I could get a whole bucket," he said.

During the opening of the Bau Nyale peak night, West Nusa Tenggara Governor Lalu M. Iqbal remarked that the rain falling on the event was a hopeful sign for the region's prosperity. "Tonight it is raining; hopefully, it becomes a blessing for everyone," he said.

The Governor emphasized that Bau Nyale is a vital cultural tradition that must be preserved because it teaches local wisdom regarding sacrifice for the community. "Nyale teaches us all about sacrifice," he said.

Lombok Tengah Regent Lalu Pathul Bahri affirmed the local administration's commitment to developing and preserving the Bau Nyale culture to boost community economic growth. "All Bau Nyale side events are held to strengthen cultural development in support of tourism promotion," he said.

The Regent expressed confidence that cultural development can stimulate the local economy and support the tourism industry in Central Lombok. "This culture can be a supporter of tourism development in Central Lombok," he noted.

The timing of the event followed the sangkap warige, a traditional deliberation by local figures, where the peak of Bau Nyale was agreed to fall on February 7–8, 2026. This consensus ensures that the sacred tradition remains aligned with ancestral calendars and natural cycles. ***