Ngerulmud, Palau Travel Guide

Discover Ngerulmud, Palau's capital city, a serene escape surrounded by lush landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and close proximity to stunning natural attractions.

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Nestled in the lush landscapes of Palau, Ngerulmud is the capital city that offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. As the seat of government, it stands apart from the bustling island of Koror, offering a quieter, more serene experience for travelers. The city's architecture reflects Palau's rich cultural heritage, with government buildings designed to mirror traditional bai meeting houses. Visiting Ngerulmud is like stepping into a different world where the pace of life slows down, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the surrounding nature. The city is surrounded by verdant forests and is close to some of the country's most stunning natural attractions, including the Rock Islands and Jellyfish Lake. The pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters make it a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Despite its small size, Ngerulmud offers several points of interest for tourists. The Palau National Congress and the Presidential Office are must-visit landmarks. The city is also a gateway to exploring the rest of Babeldaob Island, where you can find ancient stone monoliths, hidden waterfalls, and traditional villages that offer a glimpse into Palauan culture and history.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ngerulmud.

Visit the Palau National Congress and the Presidential Office for a taste of the country's political and cultural heritage.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven, especially when exploring the forested areas and ancient ruins.
Plan your visit between November and April to enjoy the best weather conditions and avoid the rainy season.
Bring snorkelling gear to explore the nearby Rock Islands and Jellyfish Lake, renowned for their underwater beauty.
Hire a local guide to gain deeper insights into the cultural and historical significance of the various landmarks and natural sites.

Explore Ngerulmud: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Ngerulmud

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Milky Way

Experience the mesmerizing beauty of Milky Way in Koror, Palau, where stunning landscapes and vibrant marine life await adventurers and nature lovers.

4.8

Belau National Museum

Discover the captivating history and vibrant culture of Palau at Belau National Museum, a must-visit attraction in Koror.

4.3

Jellyfish Lake

Discover the enchanting Jellyfish Lake in Koror, Palau, where you can swim with millions of harmless jellyfish in a breathtaking tropical paradise.

4.7

Island Paradise Resort Club

Discover the Island Paradise Resort Club in Koror, Palau, where stunning waterfront views and tropical adventures await every traveler seeking relaxation and exploration.

4.7

Best landmarks in Ngerulmud

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Belau National Museum

Explore Palau's vibrant heritage and culture at the Belau National Museum, the ultimate destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

4.3

Ngardmau Waterfalls

Experience the natural beauty of Ngardmau Waterfalls in Ngiwal, Palau, where lush landscapes and stunning cascades await every traveler.

4.6

Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge

Discover the breathtaking Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge, a symbol of unity and a must-visit tourist attraction in Palau offering stunning views.

4.6

Dolphins Pacific

Explore the enchanting world of marine life at Dolphins Pacific, where unforgettable experiences with dolphins await in the heart of Koror, Palau.

4.3

Best restaurants in Ngerulmud

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Drop Off Bar and Grill

Discover culinary delights at Drop Off Bar and Grill in Koror - where local flavors meet stunning views for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.5

The Taj

Experience authentic Indian flavors at The Taj in Koror, Palau – where every dish tells a story.

4.4

Elilai Seaside Dining

Experience exquisite fine dining at Elilai Seaside Dining in Koror with breathtaking ocean views and exceptional local cuisine.

4.6

Tori Tori

Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Tori Tori in Koror, Palau – where tradition meets fresh local ingredients.

4.0

Best bars in Ngerulmud

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Drop Off Bar and Grill

Experience the vibrant flavors of Palau at Drop Off Bar and Grill, a seaside gem in Koror offering delicious local cuisine and stunning ocean views.

4.5

The Canoe House

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Canoe House in Palau, where delicious food meets lively entertainment for an unforgettable night out.

4.5

Okemii Deli & Internet Cafe

Discover the vibrant flavors of Palau at Okemii Deli & Internet Cafe, where local cuisine meets a cozy internet cafe atmosphere in the heart of Koror.

4.7

Red Rooster Cafe

Experience the vibrant flavors of Palau at Red Rooster Cafe, a culinary treasure in the heart of Koror with a diverse menu for every taste.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Ngerulmud

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Palau Royal Resort

Discover the ultimate tropical getaway at Palau Royal Resort, where luxury meets the breathtaking beauty of Palau's pristine landscapes.

4.6

Palau Pacific Resort

Discover the luxury and natural beauty of Palau Pacific Resort, a tropical haven for relaxation and adventure in paradise.

4.6

Drop Off Bar and Grill

Experience the flavors of Palau at Drop Off Bar and Grill, a lively restaurant offering a blend of local and international cuisine in Koror.

4.5

Palau Aquarium

Explore the vibrant marine life of Palau at the Palau Aquarium, a must-visit attraction in Koror showcasing the ocean's beauty and biodiversity.

4.4

Best shops in Ngerulmud

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Surangel and Sons Co. - Koror

Explore Surangel and Sons Co. in Koror – a shopping haven combining local culture with unique finds in the heart of Palau.

4.3

Rur Gift Shop & Cafe

Explore the vibrant culture of Palau at Rur Gift Shop & Cafe, your go-to destination for unique souvenirs and local delicacies.

4.5

Ben Franklin Department Store

Explore the Ben Franklin Department Store in Medalaii, Koror for a unique shopping experience filled with local goods and vibrant culture.

3.9

EXILE

Discover vibrant fashion at EXILE in Koror, Palau – a unique clothing store blending international styles with local flair.

5.0

Explore Ngerulmud on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Ngerulmud, mapped for you.

Ngerulmud Essentials

Ngerulmud, the capital of Palau, is located on the island of Babeldaob. The nearest international airport is Roman Tmetuchl International Airport in Koror, approximately 25 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Ngerulmud. The journey typically takes around 30 minutes by road. There are no direct public transportation options from the airport to Ngerulmud, so arranging private transportation is recommended.
Getting around Ngerulmud can be challenging due to limited public transportation options. Most visitors rely on rental cars or taxis to explore the area. Car rental services are available at the airport and in Koror. Taxis are also available, but it's advisable to negotiate the fare before starting your journey. While Ngerulmud is not particularly pedestrian-friendly, some attractions may be accessible on foot if you enjoy walking.
The official currency in Palau is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for small purchases and in less touristy areas. ATMs are available in Koror, but there are fewer options in Ngerulmud, so it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to the capital.
Ngerulmud is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Petty theft can occur, so secure your valuables.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Ngerulmud. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Additionally, make sure to have the contact information of your country's embassy or consulate in Palau.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting government buildings or cultural sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Palauans are generally Christian, so be respectful when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be courteous and respectful to drivers and other passengers. Don't expect regular public transport schedules. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly hello or a handshake. Palauan culture values politeness and respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and seafood. Don't refuse food offered by locals, as it may be considered impolite.
To experience Ngerulmud like a local, visit the nearby traditional villages and interact with the residents. Participate in local festivals and cultural events if your visit coincides with one. Exploring the natural beauty of Babeldaob island, including its waterfalls and hiking trails, offers a glimpse into the local way of life. Also, consider trying local delicacies such as taro and coconut-based dishes.

When is the best time to visit Ngerulmud?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Ngerulmud

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Ngerulmud. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloAlii
  [ah-lee]
- GoodbyeKlairechar
  [kly-re-chahr]
- YesOngalek
  [ong-ah-lek]
- NoChad
  [chad]
- Please/You're welcomeKede mla mocha ongalek
  [keh-deh mlah moh-chah ong-ah-lek]
- Thank youKom kmal mesaul
  [kohm k'mahl meh-sow-ool]
- Excuse me/SorryChedam
  [cheh-dam]
- How are you?Ng diak?
  [ng dee-ahk]
- Fine. And you?Ng di meral se el kmo ngak?
  [ng dee mehr-ahl seh el k'moh ngahk]
- Do you speak English?Ng di meral se el kmo ngalek?
  [ng dee mehr-ahl seh el k'moh ong-ah-lek]
- I don't understandNg diak el kmo meruul
  [ng dee-ahk el k'moh meh-rool]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNg meral di mocha ke meduch er a rengalek
  [ng mehr-ahl dee moh-chah keh meh-dooch er ah reng-ah-lek]
- I don't eat meatNg diak el meral di chutem
  [ng dee-ahk el mehr-ahl dee choo-tem]
- Cheers!Kaliid
  [kah-leeed]
- I would like to pay, pleaseNg meral di mocha medak el kmo ngar er a keris
  [ng mehr-ahl dee moh-chah meh-dahk el k'moh ngahr er ah keh-rees]
- Help!Chad ra rengalek
  [chad rah reng-ah-lek]
- Go away!Chad ra beluu
  [chad rah beh-loo]
- Call the Police!Chad ra rengalek er a beches el chad
  [chad rah reng-ah-lek er ah beh-ches el chad]
- Call a doctor!Chad ra rengalek er a meduch er a doktor
  [chad rah reng-ah-lek er ah meh-dooch er ah dohk-tohr]
- I'm lostNg diak el kmo meruul
  [ng dee-ahk el k'moh meh-rool]
- I'm illNg diak el kmo ngar er a meral
  [ng dee-ahk el k'moh ngahr er ah mehr-ahl]
- I'd like to buy...Ng meral di mocha beluu...
  [ng mehr-ahl dee moh-chah beh-loo]
- I'm just lookingNg di mocha beluu
  [ng dee moh-chah beh-loo]
- How much is it?Ke mlo diak?
  [keh m'loh dee-ahk]
- That's too expensiveA mekngit a diak
  [ah meh-kngit ah dee-ahk]
- Can you lower the price?Ng diak el mlo medengei a rechad er tiang
  [ng dee-ahk el m'loh meh-deng-gay ah reh-chad er tee-ahng]
- What time is it?Ke diak el kmo?
  [keh dee-ahk el k'moh]
- It's one o'clockAk di milil el mla mo melim a klukuk
  [ahk dee mee-leel el mlah moh meh-leem ah kloo-kook]
- Half past (10)Eng di mla klokobeluu (10)
  [ehng dee mlah kloh-koh-beh-loo (10)]
- MorningMeral di mloker ra rengalek
  [mehr-ahl dee m'loh-kehr rah reng-ah-lek]
- AfternoonMeral di mloker ra remelech
  [mehr-ahl dee m'loh-kehr rah rem-eh-lech]
- EveningMeral di mloker ra rengalek
  [mehr-ahl dee m'loh-kehr rah reng-ah-lek]
- YesterdayKmang
  [kmahng]
- TodayKmal mesulang
  [k'mahl meh-soo-lahng]
- TomorrowKmal meral
  [k'mahl mehr-ahl]
- 1Rengal
  [reng-ahl]
- 2Dua
  [doo-ah]
- 3Telu
  [teh-loo]
- 4Erpat
  [ehr-paht]
- 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
- 6Enem
  [eh-nem]
- 7Pitu
  [pee-too]
- 8Valu
  [vah-loo]
- 9Siva
  [see-vah]
- 10Selau
  [seh-lah-oo]
- Where's a/the...?Ungil ra...
  [oong-eel rah]
- What's the address?Ke diak el kmo ra telungalek?
  [keh dee-ahk el k'moh rah teh-loong-ah-lek]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Ng diak el mlo mengedei er a chad er a beches?
  [ng dee-ahk el m'loh mehng-ged-ay er ah chad er ah beh-ches]
- When's the next (bus)?Ke diak el kmo ra belau er a cheruul?
  [keh dee-ahk el k'moh rah beh-lah-ooh er ah cheh-rool]
- A ticket (to ....)Kede chad ra beluu (er ....)
  [keh-deh chad rah beh-loo (er)]

History of Ngerulmud

Ngerulmud, the capital city of Palau, was officially designated as the seat of government in 2006. This decision was made to create a centralized location for the administrative functions of the country, moving away from the former capital, Koror.
The construction of the Capitol Complex in Ngerulmud began in 2000 and was completed by 2006. The complex includes the Palau National Congress (Olbiil Era Kelulau), the President's Office, and the Palau Supreme Court. The architecture of the complex reflects a blend of traditional Palauan design and modern functionality.
Ngerulmud was officially inaugurated as the capital of Palau on October 7, 2006. This event marked a significant milestone in Palau's history, symbolizing the country's progress and development since gaining independence from the United States under the Compact of Free Association in 1994.
Ngerulmud is located in the state of Melekeok, which is rich in cultural and historical significance. The area is known for its traditional Palauan architecture, including the bai, or men's meeting houses, which are intricately decorated with carvings and paintings that depict Palauan legends and history.
Ngerulmud is strategically situated on the largest island of Palau, Babeldaob. This location provides easier access to various parts of the country and supports the development of infrastructure, including roads and transportation networks, that connect the capital to other states and islands.
The establishment of Ngerulmud as the capital has spurred economic development in the region. New government buildings, improved infrastructure, and increased investment have contributed to the growth of local businesses and services, enhancing the quality of life for residents.