Lesson Learned: Developing a Replica of the Kaaba in Central Lombok as an Educational Religious Tourism Destination - A Public Sector Role Approach

Authors

• M. Setyo Nugroho, Universitas Islam Negeri Mataram, IndonesiaFollow
• Muhammad Muhajir Aminy, Universitas Islam Negeri Mataram, IndonesiaFollow

Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9947-2854

Abstract

This study examines the role of village administration in developing the Kaaba replica as a religious education site in Central Lombok. It introduces a unique tourism product that provides travellers with an experience reminiscent of the Hajj in Mecca. The research employs a qualitative approach with exploratory analysis, and data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. Observations focused on the replica’s condition, supporting attractions, facilities, infrastructure, tour packages, and tourist activities. Interviews were conducted with village officials, replica management, and community members. Documentation included photographs, audio, video, records, scientific publications, and books related to the replica. The findings indicate that the development of the Kaaba replica as an educational tourism site aims to enhance tourists’ spiritual values. Key components supporting this development include facilities, infrastructure, and tourism services. The site features replicas of the Kaaba, the Arafat Monument, and the monuments of Mina, Musdalifah, Safa, and Marwah. The village administration contributes to this development in three ways: as a motivator by supporting the replica managers and raising community awareness; as a facilitator by developing facilities and infrastructure, such as paved roads; and as a catalyst by fostering communication among managers, the private sector, and the community, which facilitates dialogue. The government’s role is also strengthened through the issuance of tourism regulations.

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International License.

Recommended Citation

Nugroho, M. Setyo and Aminy, Muhammad Muhajir (2026) "Lesson Learned: Developing a Replica of the Kaaba in Central Lombok as an Educational Religious Tourism Destination - A Public Sector Role Approach," International Journal of Religious Tourism and Pilgrimage: Vol. 14: Iss. 3, Article 3.
Available at: https://arrow.tudublin.ie/ijrtp/vol14/iss3/3