Palikir

Palikir has been the capital of the Federated States of Micronesia since 1989, situated on the lush island of Pohnpei. Specifically developed to serve as the nation's administrative heart, it took over the role from nearby Kolonia. The city is home to the National Congress and the presidential offices, with buildings designed to withstand the region's high humidity and heavy tropical rainfall. Surrounded by dense rainforest and jagged volcanic peaks, Palikir feels more like a serene administrative park than a bustling metropolitan area. It lacks the typical urban sprawl of major world capitals, prioritizing open spaces and integration with the natural landscape. The city's location in the northwest of Pohnpei makes it a central point for governance while remaining close to significant cultural sites like the ancient ruins of Nan Madol. As a symbol of Micronesian sovereignty, Palikir represents the political unity of the four states, Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae, within the vast Pacific Ocean.

Nearby cities

Weno

Weno is the most populous city in the country and the economic hub of Chuuk State.

Weno Business Center

Weno is the most densely populated commercial center in FSM.

Tofol

Tofol is the administrative center of Kosrae State.

Tofol Economic Hub

Tofol is the administrative and economic center of Kosrae State.

Colonia Commercial Center

This is the economic heart of Yap, where traditional and modern trade meet.

Colonia

Colonia is the administrative center of Yap State, located on the eastern coast.

Kolonia

Kolonia is the largest settlement on Pohnpei and was formerly the national capital.

Kolonia Business District

Kolonia is the primary commercial center of Pohnpei.

Nett

Nett is a populous municipality on Pohnpei island, directly bordering the town of Kolonia and housing vital infrastructure.

Sokehs

Sokehs is a municipality on Pohnpei island, known for the prominent Sokehs Rock, a volcanic plug overlooking the harbor.

Abaiang

An idyllic coral atoll in Kiribati, known for its pristine lagoons and deep roots in traditional Polynesian culture.

Kitti

Kitti is a municipality in the south of Pohnpei, known for its spectacular waterfalls and pristine nature.

Madolenihmw

Madolenihmw is a municipality on Pohnpei island, containing the world-famous ruined city of Nan Madol within its borders.

History & landmarks

Chuuk Lagoon

A spectacular underwater museum featuring a sunken Japanese fleet from World War II.

FSM National Capitol

The national capitol in Palikir is the seat of the federal government of the Federated States of Micronesia.

Paliikir Historical Base

Paliikir, now the capital of the Federated States of Micronesia, was a significant Japanese airfield and base during World War II.

Pohnpei State Capitol

The government center of Pohnpei State is located in Palikir and houses the local legislature.

Japanese Radio Station

The ruins of the Japanese Radio Station in Kolonia date back to the pre-WWII era.

Nature

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Nanpil River Basin

The Nanpil River Basin on Pohnpei is a vital freshwater ecosystem.

Dolohmwar

Dolohmwar is a high peak in the Senyavin Islands on Pohnpei.

Mount Nanlaud

Mount Nanlaud is the highest point on the island of Pohnpei and the entire Federated States of Micronesia, reaching 782 meters.

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Mount Ngihnen

Mount Ngihnen is the second highest peak in Pohnpei and the entire country.

Mount Nahna Laud

Mount Nahna Laud is the centerpiece of Pohnpei's pristine rainforest.

Ant Atoll

Ant Atoll is a significant marine biosphere reserve located near Pohnpei.

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Pakin Atoll

Pakin Atoll offers some of the most spectacular coral formations in Micronesia.

Oroluk Atoll

Oroluk Atoll is a remote wildlife sanctuary known for its sea turtle population.

More places

Lelu

Lelu is a historical town on Kosrae island, renowned for its massive megalithic ruins dating back to the 14th century.

National Fisheries Corporation

The NFC manages the nation's commercial fishing interests.

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Liduduhniap Waterfalls

Liduduhniap Waterfalls are two picturesque twin waterfalls on Pohnpei.

Pohnpei Mangroves

The mangrove forests of Pohnpei form a dense coastal protection belt.

Sokehs Rock

Sokehs Rock is a prominent landmark on Pohnpei and the site of the 1910 Sokehs Rebellion.

German Bell Tower

This bell tower is the sole surviving structure of an early 20th-century German mission in Pohnpei.

Spanish Wall

The Spanish Wall in Kolonia is a relic of Spanish colonial rule from the late 19th century.

Coconut Processing Plant

This plant is operated by the Pohnpei Coconut Development Authority.