Popular Destinations in Papua New Guinea
Port Moresby
Capital of Papua New Guinea, Port Moresby is the political center of the
country. Formerly an air base for Imperial Japan during World War II, the
modern city has emerged as a center of trade. The cosmopolitan city is
lined with several landmarks such as Saint Mary's Catholic Cathedral,
Mosque Hohola, and Port Moresby (Bomana) War Cemetery. With its vibrant
mosaic, the Parliament House is a major attraction in Port Moresby. History
and art enthusiast must visit the Papua New Guinea National Museum and Art
Gallery. The museum’s extensive collection comprises echibits on
archeology, warfare, anthropology, and art. For sweeping views over the
Port Moresby Harbour, visitors must head to Paga Hill.
Mount Hagen
Nestled in the Wahgi Valley, Mount Hagen is the capital of the Western
Highlands Province. The city is a major cultural hub of the region and the
third largest city in Papua New Guinea. Traditional culture and beliefs are
deeply rooted in the local population. Mount Hagen is connected to the
coastal cities of Madang and Lae via the Highlands Highway, which is the
primary arterial route in the region. Named after the eroded volcano Mount
Hagen, the city acts as a gateway to the Baiyer River Bird Sanctuary. The
sanctuary houses the largest collection of wildlife and birds in Papua New
Guniea. Mount Hagen hosts the Mount Hagen Cultural Show, which is among the
biggest tourist attractions in the country. Numerous provincial and
national tribal dance groups take part in this cultural show to celebrate
their cultural heritage.
Rabaul
Rabaul is a township in the province of East New Britain on New Britain
Island. The city is located 60 kms eastward from the mainland island of New
Guinea. Former provincial capital, Rabaul was a major settlement until it
was ravaged by a volcanic eruption in 1994. Roughly 80% of the city’s
buildings collapsed, and Kokopo was made the capital. Visitors can head
over to the Vulcanology Observatory and New Guniea Club ad Rabaul Museum to
learn more about the region and volcanic activity. Several tour operators
offer guided tours and cruises to Rabaul. Major landmarks in Rabaul are
Admiral Yamamoto's Bunker, Japanese Peace Memorial, and the Shipwreck near
Simpson Harbor.