Ngerulmud, Palau: Travel Guide to the Pacific's Underwater Paradise

Ngerulmud is the capital of Palau, an island nation of more than 300 islands in the western Pacific, located in the hills of Babeldaob, the country's largest island. Inaugurated in 2006, it is one of the world's smallest capitals, little more than a striking government complex surrounded by forest, while most visitors stay in nearby Koror, the country's largest town. Palau is famous for its emerald Rock Islands, world-class diving and a pioneering commitment to protecting the ocean.

🗺️ More tours

More tours in Palau

Search hotels in Palau →Order an eSIM for your trip

Top 5 Must-Visit Attractions in Ngerulmud and Palau

1. Palau National Capitol

The Palau National Capitol in Ngerulmud is an unexpected sight in the jungle of Babeldaob: a gleaming white neoclassical complex, inspired by the US Capitol in Washington, D.C., with a central dome and columns. It houses the President's office, the Olbiil Era Kelulau (National Congress) and the Supreme Court. Palau became independent in 1994 under a Compact of Free Association with the United States, after periods of Spanish, German, Japanese and US administration. Nearby, traditional bai (meeting houses), decorated with carved and painted story boards, reflect Palauan culture.

Booking tip: tours of Babeldaob, including the Capitol, can be booked through local operators in Koror or on GetYourGuide.

2. Rock Islands Southern Lagoon

The Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012, is Palau's most iconic landscape: hundreds of mushroom-shaped limestone islands covered in lush green forest, rising from a turquoise lagoon. Kayaking, snorkelling and boat trips reveal hidden beaches, sea caves and coral gardens. Highlights include the Milky Way, a lagoon with white limestone mud said to be good for the skin, and Long Beach, a sandbar visible at low tide.

Booking tip: Rock Islands boat trips and kayaking tours can be booked on GetYourGuide or through Koror operators. A Rock Islands permit is required.

3. Jellyfish Lake

On Eil Malk Island, Jellyfish Lake is one of the world's most unusual snorkelling experiences. Isolated from the ocean for thousands of years, the lake is home to millions of golden jellyfish whose sting is so mild that it's harmless to humans. The jellyfish population declined dramatically during the 2016 drought but has since recovered, and the lake has reopened to visitors.

Booking tip: scuba diving is forbidden in the lake; only snorkelling is permitted. Check whether the lake is open before booking.

4. Diving: Blue Corner and German Channel

Palau is regularly ranked among the best diving destinations in the world. At Blue Corner, divers hook onto the reef to watch sharks, barracuda, turtles and huge schools of fish in strong currents. German Channel is famous for manta rays, while Ulong Channel offers dramatic drift dives. Palau created one of the world's first shark sanctuaries in 2009, and its National Marine Sanctuary protects around 80 per cent of its waters.

Booking tip: book with a licensed dive operator in Koror; advanced dives require experience.

5. Babeldaob: Ngardmau Waterfall and Badrulchau Stone Monoliths

Babeldaob, the second-largest island in Micronesia after Guam, offers green hills, rivers and villages. Ngardmau Waterfall, the tallest in Palau, is reached by a jungle trail. In the north, the Badrulchau Stone Monoliths are dozens of ancient basalt stones, some carved with faces, whose origins remain a mystery. Further south, Peleliu Island was the scene of one of the bloodiest battles of World War II in 1944.

Booking tip: hire a car or join a guided Babeldaob tour.

Practical Travel Tips for Ngerulmud and Palau

Before You Go

  • Palau Pledge: on arrival, visitors sign the Palau Pledge, stamped in their passport, promising to protect the environment.
  • Environmental fee: a Pristine Paradise Environmental Fee of USD 100 is usually included in your airline ticket.
  • Reef-safe sunscreen: sunscreens containing certain harmful chemicals are banned.

Getting Around

  • By air: Roman Tmetuchl International Airport, on Babeldaob, is served by flights from Guam, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea and the Philippines.
  • Car rental: the best way to explore Babeldaob; the Compact Road circles the island.
  • Taxis: available in Koror.
  • Boats: needed to reach the Rock Islands and other islands.
  • Money: the currency is the US dollar.
  • Languages: Palauan and English.

Local Culinary Specialties

  • Fresh fish and sashimi: reflecting Japanese influence.
  • Taro: a staple food, often served with coconut.
  • Ulkoy: fish cakes.
  • Coconut crab: a traditional delicacy, subject to restrictions.
  • Tropical fruits: mangoes, papayas and bananas.

Best Time to Visit

  • November–April: the drier season, with calmer seas, ideal for diving.
  • May–October: wetter, with a risk of typhoons.

Conclusion: Plan Your Trip to Ngerulmud and Palau

Ngerulmud and Palau combine a unique capital, the emerald Rock Islands, Jellyfish Lake and world-class diving. Whether you're kayaking through the Rock Islands or diving at Blue Corner, Palau is a true underwater paradise.

Plan ahead: book your tours on GetYourGuide or with local operators, and get ready to discover Palau.