Airai Bai

Located in the state of Airai, the Airai Bai is the oldest surviving traditional men's meeting house in Palau, with a history spanning over 170 years. This architectural masterpiece was constructed entirely from wood using complex joinery and lashing techniques, without the use of a single metal nail. The Bai is most famous for its steeply pitched thatched roof and its bustling, hand-painted gables. Every carving and painting on the structure is deeply symbolic, depicting local folklore, historical battles, and moral lessons essential to Palauan heritage. Historically, the Bai served as the political and social heart of the village, where chiefs gathered for council and ceremonies were held. Today, it remains one of Palau's most cherished cultural icons, representing the endurance of indigenous traditions and social systems. A visit to Airai Bai provides an intimate look at the artistic precision and communal spirit that defined Palauan life long before the colonial era.

Nearby cities

Airai

Airai is the second most populous settlement in Palau.

Koror Business District

This district forms the economic heart of Palau.

Koror

Koror is the most populous city in Palau and served as the national capital until 2006.

Meyuns

Meyuns is a significant village located on Ngerekebesang Island.

Kloulklubed

Kloulklubed is the main village on Peleliu Island.

Ulimang

Ulimang is the administrative center of Ngaraard State on Babeldaob.

Mengellang

Mengellang is the main village of Ngarchelong State at the northern tip of Babeldaob.

Ngerulmud Administrative Center

As the seat of government, Ngerulmud is the center for public spending and national administration.

Ngerulmud

Ngerulmud has been the capital of Palau since 2006.

Ngchesar

Ngchesar is a quiet settlement on the east coast of Babeldaob.

Melekeok

Melekeok is a village on the east coast of Babeldaob.

Aimeliik

Aimeliik is a settlement in southwestern Babeldaob.

Ngiwal

Ngiwal is a village in eastern Babeldaob.

Ngardmau

Ngardmau is a settlement on the west coast of Babeldaob.

Kayangel

Kayangel is the northernmost inhabited settlement in Palau, located on a coral atoll.

History & landmarks

Bai ra Airai

This traditional meeting house, over 130 years old, is the oldest of its kind in Palau and a major cultural monument.

Palau National Stadium

The Palau National Stadium in Koror is the main venue for sporting events and national celebrations in the country.

Palau Capitol Building

The Capitol Building in Ngerulmud is the official seat of the government of Palau.

Ngerulmud Monoliths

Near the current seat of government are ancient stone structures that indicate the historical importance of this location.

Nature

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Ngermid Bay

A sheltered bay featuring high coral diversity, notably resilient to higher water temperatures.

Babeldaob Mangroves

The mangrove forests of Babeldaob fringe large portions of the main island's coastline.

Ngerekebesang Hill

Ngerekebesang Hill is the highest elevation on Ngerekebesang Island.

Malakal Peak

This hill on Malakal Island overlooks the most important harbor in Palau.

More places

Airai Stone Path

The Airai Stone Path is a historic connecting road made of large stone slabs.

Japanese Communications Center

This ruin of a massive reinforced concrete building in Airai served as a communications hub for the Japanese military during WWII.

Airai Solar Farm

This solar farm represents Palau's commitment to renewable energy.

Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge

This bridge connects the islands of Koror and Babeldaob and is a vital transport artery.

Koror-Babeldaob Bridge

The KB Bridge is the nation's most vital transport artery.

Etpison Museum

The Etpison Museum documents Palauan cultural heritage through artifacts and historic photos.

Ngatpang Aquaculture Center

This center specializes in the sustainable farming of seafood.

Aimeliik Terraces

These monumental earth terraces were shaped into the hills of Babeldaob by prehistoric societies.