Palau National Capitol (Ngerulmud)
Ngerulmud
A neoclassical national capitol complex on a hill in Melekeok State on Babeldaob. Modeled on the U.S. Capitol, it is the seat of Palau's government.
In 2006, Palau moved its capital from Koror to Ngerulmud in Melekeok State on the east coast of Babeldaob. The National Capitol sits on a hill, its white dome and colonnades modeled on the U.S. Capitol. It consists of three buildings for the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, and it stands in strong contrast to the surrounding rainforest. Visitors can take photos from the outdoor plaza, and the main hall is sometimes open for visits on weekdays. It is about 1 hour by car from Koror, and it is often scheduled with Ngardok Lake, Badrulchau, and Ngardmau Waterfall on a one-day circle-island tour.
Opening hours
exterior open all day; some halls open on weekdays
Nearby sights
- Lake Ngardok
- Ngardmau Waterfall
- Airai Bai
- Japan–Palau Friendship Bridge (K-B Bridge)
- Badrulchau Stone Monoliths
- Etpison Museum
- Jake Seaplane Wreck
- Belau National Museum