Ngerulmud is the capital of the Pacific island nation of Palau, located on the island of Babeldaob. It has a population of around 500 people. It was established as the capital in 2006, replacing Koror City. The government buildings, including the President’s office and the legislature, are located in Ngerulmud. The city also has a small airport and a port. The economy of Ngerulmud is based on tourism and government services.
Ngerulmud is located in the western part of Babeldaob, the largest island in Palau. The city is surrounded by lush tropical forests and is close to several natural attractions, including waterfalls, caves, and beaches. The Ngardok Nature Reserve, a protected area home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, is located just a short distance from Ngerulmud.
Tourism is a major industry in Palau and Ngerulmud serves as the main gateway for visitors to the island nation. The city has a small number of hotels and resorts, as well as restaurants and shops. Visitors can also find tour operators offering excursions to Palau’s many natural and cultural attractions.
The official languages of Ngerulmud and Palau are Palauan and English. The local culture is a blend of traditional Palauan customs and modern influences. Many traditional festivals and ceremonies are still celebrated in Ngerulmud and throughout Palau.
Overall Ngerulmud, being the capital and the political center of the nation is a small city but rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.
The history of Ngerulmud can be traced back to the ancient civilization of Palau, which existed long before the arrival of European explorers. The island of Babeldaob, where Ngerulmud is located, was home to many ancient stone monoliths known as “Badrulchau” or “stone money” which were used as a form of currency by the ancient Palauans.
In the late 19th century, Palau was annexed by Spain and later by Germany. During this time, the island was used primarily as a coaling station for ships passing through the Pacific.
After the First World War, Palau was placed under the administration of the Japanese Empire. The Japanese developed the island’s infrastructure, including roads, schools, and government buildings.
During the Second World War, Palau was the site of several major battles between the US and Japan. After the war, Palau became a US Trust Territory.
In the early 1980s, Palau became an independent nation. Koror City, located on the island of Koror, was the capital of Palau until 2006, when the government decided to relocate the capital to Ngerulmud. The move was intended to promote the development of Babeldaob, which had been largely overlooked in the past.
Today, Ngerulmud serves as the political and administrative center of Palau, while Koror remains the economic center. The city has grown slowly but steadily over the years and continues to be a significant cultural and historical center in the Pacific island nation.
10 Things to Do in in ngerulmud
- Visit the Palau National Capitol building, which serves as the seat of government and home to the President’s office and the legislature.
- Explore the Ngardok Nature Reserve, a protected area home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species.
- Take a tour of the ancient stone monoliths known as the “Badrulchau” or “stone money” which are unique to Palau and can only be found on Babeldaob island.
- Visit the Palau National Museum which has a collection of artifacts and information about the history, culture, and tradition of Palau.
- Take a snorkeling or diving trip to explore Palau’s stunning coral reefs and marine life. The city is a great starting point for excursions to the famous Jellyfish Lake and Blue Corner.
- Visit the Palau International Coral Reef Center, which is dedicated to the research and conservation of coral reefs and marine life.
- Take a scenic drive or hike through the lush tropical forests that surround the city and explore the many waterfalls and caves.
- Visit the Palauan Traditional House at the cultural village, where you can learn about the traditional way of life and customs of the Palauan people.
- Take a boat tour to the nearby Rock Islands, which are a group of small uninhabited islands known for their limestone formations, crystal-clear waters and excellent snorkeling and diving.
- Visit the Palau Pacific Resort which is a 5-star luxury resort that offers a variety of activities, such as tennis, golf, spa, and gym as well as restaurants and bars.
How to go Ngerulmud
The best way to travel to Ngerulmud is by flying to Palau International Airport, which is located on the island of Babeldaob, just a short distance from the city. The airport is served by several airlines, including United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Asiana Airlines, which offer flights from major cities in Asia, such as Tokyo, Seoul, and Manila. There are also flights to Palau from Guam, Saipan, and other islands in the Pacific.
Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to get to Ngerulmud, which is located around 15 minutes drive from the airport. Alternatively, you can take a bus or shuttle service that connects the airport to the city.
You can also reach Ngerulmud by boat from other islands in Palau or from nearby countries such as Philippines.
Please note that the city is small and you can easily explore it by foot.
Overall, Ngerulmud is well connected to other major cities in the region and is easily accessible by air and sea.
Accommodation in Ngerulmud
Ngerulmud has a limited number of accommodation options compared to other tourist destinations, but there are still a variety of options available for visitors to choose from.
- Hotels: There are a few small hotels and resorts in Ngerulmud that offer comfortable accommodations, such as the Palau Pacific Resort, the Ngerulmud Hotel, and the Ngarchelong State Guest House.
- Guesthouses: There are also a number of guesthouses in Ngerulmud that offer budget-friendly accommodations, such as the Ngerulmud Guesthouse and the Ngarchelong Guesthouse.
- Vacation rentals: There are also vacation rental options such as apartments, villas, and cottages available for rent in Ngerulmud. Some of the vacation rental options are managed by local property management companies.
- Camping: There are also some camping sites that you can use for your stay in Ngerulmud.
The majority of the accommodations in Ngerulmud are not the luxurious or high-end types but offer comfortable and budget-friendly options for travelers. To ensure your stay is pleasant, it is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Ngerulmud climate
Ngerulmud has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The city is located in the western Pacific Ocean, and its weather is influenced by the surrounding ocean, which helps to keep temperatures relatively steady.
The weather in Ngerulmud is generally warm and sunny, with an average temperature of around 29°C (84°F). The highest temperatures are typically reached in the months of June to August, while the lowest temperatures are reached in the months of December to February.
Rainfall is heaviest from July to October, which is the rainy season in Ngerulmud. The city receives an average of around 2,500 mm of rain per year.
The city can be affected by typhoons, specially during the rainy season, so it’s always good to check the weather forecast before planning your trip.
Overall, Ngerulmud has a warm tropical climate with relatively high humidity and frequent rainfall. The best time to visit is during the dry season, between December and April, when the weather is generally sunny and mild.
Ngerulmud activity
Ngerulmud offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, both in the city and in the surrounding area. Some popular activities include:
- Exploring the natural beauty of Palau: Ngerulmud is surrounded by lush tropical forests and is close to several natural attractions, including waterfalls, caves, and beaches. Visitors can also take a snorkeling or diving trip to explore Palau’s stunning coral reefs and marine life.
- Visiting cultural and historical sites: The city is home to the Palau National Capitol building, the Palau National Museum, and the Palauan Traditional House, which offer a glimpse into the history, culture, and tradition of Palau.
- Fishing and boating: Palau is known for its excellent fishing, and visitors can charter boats to go out to sea and fish for a variety of species, including tuna, marlin, and barracuda.
- Hiking and trekking: Visitors can take guided hikes through the lush tropical forests that surround the city and explore the many waterfalls and caves.
- Golfing: There is a 18-hole golf course available for visitors to enjoy at the Palau Pacific Resort.
- Spa and wellness: There are also several spa and wellness centers in Ngerulmud, offering a variety of treatments such as massages, facials, and body scrubs.
- Festivals and events: Throughout the year, Ngerulmud and Palau host a variety of festivals and events, such as the Palau International Coral Reef Center Festival, the Palau Music Festival and the Belau Fair.
- Shopping: Visitors can shop for local souvenirs, including traditional Palauan crafts, such as woven baskets and carvings made from wood or stone.
Overall, Ngerulmud offers a mix of natural, cultural, and recreational activities that cater to a wide range of interests, making it a great destination for visitors of all ages.
Pros of visiting Ngerulmud:
- Natural beauty: Ngerulmud is located in a beautiful tropical setting, surrounded by lush forests and close to many natural attractions, such as waterfalls, caves, and beaches.
- Rich culture and history: The city offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the history, culture, and tradition of Palau through its museums, cultural centers, and historical sites.
- Outdoor activities: Ngerulmud is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with many opportunities for hiking, fishing, snorkeling, diving, and other activities.
- Good weather: The city has a warm tropical climate with relatively high humidity and frequent rainfall, which makes it a great destination for visitors looking to escape cold weather.
- Affordable: Accommodation and most activities are budget-friendly, making it a great destination for budget-conscious travelers.
Cons of visiting Ngerulmud:
- Limited infrastructure: As Ngerulmud is a relatively small city, the infrastructure is limited, with fewer options for dining, shopping, and entertainment compared to larger cities.
- Limited accommodation options: The city has a limited number of accommodation options, so it’s important to book in advance, especially during peak season.
- Rainy season: Ngerulmud’s rainy season can be heavy and can affect outdoor activities and travel plans.
- Remote location: Ngerulmud is located on a remote Pacific island, which can make it difficult and expensive to reach, especially for travelers coming from far away.
- Limited public transportation: The city has a limited public transportation system, so visitors who want to explore the surrounding areas will need to rent a car or hire a taxi.
Things to know or restrictions in Ngerulmud
- Visa requirements: Visitors to Ngerulmud and Palau are required to have a valid passport and a visa. Citizens of some countries, such as the US, Canada, and Australia, are eligible for a 30-day visa on arrival, while citizens of other countries may be required to apply for a visa in advance. It’s always good to check the visa requirements for your country before you travel.
- Currency: The official currency of Ngerulmud and Palau is the US dollar. Most businesses, including hotels and restaurants, accept credit cards, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand, especially for small purchases.
- Language: The official languages of Ngerulmud and Palau are Palauan and English. English is widely spoken, but it may be helpful to learn a few basic Palauan phrases.
- Tipping: Tipping is not expected in Palau, but it is appreciated in the service industry.
- Cultural sensitivity: Visitors should be aware of and respectful of the local culture and customs. It is important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites and to remove shoes when entering homes or places of worship.
- Environmental protection: Palau is a unique place with a delicate ecosystem, visitors are encouraged to take care of the environment and follow the rules and regulations to protect the natural resources.
- Health and safety: Ngerulmud is generally a safe destination, but visitors should take the usual precautions to protect themselves from crime and accidents. It is also important to check for any health risks and take necessary precautions before traveling.
- Customs and regulations: Visitors should be aware of and comply with the local laws and regulations, including those related to drugs, firearms, and other prohibited items.
Overall, Ngerulmud and Palau is a welcoming and friendly destination, but visitors should be prepared to respect the local culture and environment while they are there.