Babeldaob

Babeldaob is the largest island in the Republic of Palau and contains the national government seat at Ngerulmud. The island is larger and more topographically varied than the nearby urban island of Koror, with rivers, forest and traditional cultural sites.

The interior is known for stretches of rainforest, freshwater streams and waterfalls, prehistoric stone monoliths and traditional village sites, which attract visitors seeking inland nature and cultural features rather than resort beaches. Roads and local trails link small settlements and natural attractions around the island.

Babeldaob has been inhabited for millennia and contains numerous archaeological and cultural sites associated with Palau’s traditional societies. In 2006 the national government administrative functions moved from Koror to the newly established capital area of Ngerulmud on Babeldaob.

Geographically Babeldaob lies immediately north and east of Koror in the Palau island chain, forming the main continental mass of the country and dominating the archipelago’s land area.

• Size and role: It is the largest island in Palau and contains the national capital area, with a largely rural interior and scattered village settlements.
• What to expect: Visitors come for inland hikes, cultural sites such as stone monoliths and traditional village areas, and freshwater features rather than for beach tourism.

What to See #

• Ngerulmud: Seat of the national government at Ngerulmud, established after the move of the capital from Koror in 2006, located within Melekeok State.
• Ngardmau Waterfall: A forested interior with rivers, traditional stone monoliths and trails, and waterfalls including the island's best-known cascade which is a local natural highlight.