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Badrulchau Stone Monoliths
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The Badrulchau Stone Monoliths represent Palau's most significant archaeological site, located on the windswept hills of Ngarchelong at the northern tip of Babeldaob. This enigmatic complex consists of 37 massive basalt pillars arranged in two parallel rows, with origins traced back to approximately 150 AD. Local legends suggest these stones were the foundation pillars for a monumental 'Bai' (meeting house) constructed by gods, capable of holding thousands of people. Several of the monoliths feature roughly carved human faces, adding an eerie and mysterious quality to the ancient site. The heaviest stones weigh more than four tons, indicating a sophisticated level of social organization and engineering to transport them from distant quarries. Standing among these weathered sentinels, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, making Badrulchau a place where ancient history and natural beauty converge in a powerful and atmospheric setting that remains one of Micronesia's great unsolved mysteries.
- Location: Palau
- Top sights: Ngerchelong stone monoliths · Bischerad · Old Japanese Lighthouse
- Nearby: Ulimang (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 216 | 197 | 183 | 177 | 279 | 331 | 375 | 303 | 284 | 236 | 239 | 246 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Badrulchau Stone Monoliths are an archaeological site with 37 standing basalt stones, freely visitable. The grounds are open and accessible without an entry fee.
Typical hours
The site is accessible at any time as it is outdoors. Best visited in the morning or late afternoon to see the shadows of the monoliths.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the site. The monoliths offer dramatic photo subjects especially when the sun is low.
Time needed
Viewing the main area of the monoliths takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Those wanting to explore the surrounding hills and jungle should allow more time.
Combine with
Combine the monoliths with a visit to the nearby Ngarchelong Cultural Center. Ngarchelong Beach is also worth a detour.
Getting there
The site is on a hill in Ngarchelong, northern Babeldaob, reachable by car via an unpaved road. A 4WD vehicle is recommended.
Insider tip
Bring sturdy footwear as the path to the site can be uneven. Respect the historic site and do not climb on the monoliths.
Geography
Facts
- Earliest artifacts at the site date back to circa 161 AD
- The heaviest monoliths weigh over 5 tons each
- The site features two parallel rows of stone pillars
- Several stones are carved with stylized human faces
- Original purpose was likely a massive Bai (meeting house)
- Located in Ngarchelong State on the island of Babeldaob
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Badrulchau Stone Monoliths (5)
Tet el Bad (Stone coffin/Sarcophagus)
Stone coffin or sarcophagus, possibly from pre-colonial times.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What are the Badrulchau stones?
Ancient basalt monoliths whose exact origin and purpose remain a mystery today.
Are they easy to find?
They are well-signposted in the north of Babeldaob and easy to reach.
How much time should one allocate?
About an hour is sufficient to explore the site at leisure.
Is the site wheelchair accessible?
The terrain is mostly flat, but there are no special paths for wheelchairs.
Is a guide necessary?
Not strictly necessary, but a guide can provide much background knowledge on the legends.
Badrulchau Stone Monoliths: where is it located?
Badrulchau Stone Monoliths is located in Palau.
Badrulchau Stone Monoliths: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ngerchelong stone monoliths, Bischerad, Old Japanese Lighthouse.
Badrulchau Stone Monoliths: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Badrulchau Stone Monoliths: why is it worth visiting?
The Badrulchau Stone Monoliths represent Palau's most significant archaeological site, located on the windswept hills of Ngarchelong at the northern tip of Babeldaob.
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More places
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Amidst the Badrulchau site are basalt stones into which enigmatic human faces have been carved.
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