Chelechol ra Orrak

Chelechol ra Orrak is a paramount archaeological site located on a limestone island near Koror in Palau. This sea-level cave has gained international recognition for providing some of the earliest evidence of human habitation in Micronesia, serving as a burial ground approximately 3,000 years ago. During excavations, archaeologists discovered the remains of over 25 individuals, making it one of the oldest cemetery sites in the Pacific. Along with human remains, the site yielded early stone tools, shell beads, and pottery fragments, offering invaluable insights into the social structures and daily lives of Palau's first settlers. The cave is situated within the UNESCO-listed Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, an area characterized by its unique 'mushroom' islands and turquoise waters. Access to the site usually requires a boat trip and specialized permission to ensure the protection of the fragile archaeological layers. For visitors, Chelechol ra Orrak represents a profound link to the deep past, highlighting Palau's central role in the narrative of human migration across the vast Pacific Ocean and the adaptation of ancient peoples to tropical island environments.

Nearby cities

Koror

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

Koror Business District

This district forms the economic heart of Palau.

Airai

Airai is the second most populous settlement in Palau.

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.

Angaur

Angaur is the main settlement on the island of the same name in southern Palau.

History & landmarks

Palau National Stadium

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

Bai ra Airai

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

Rock Islands (Chelbacheb)

The Rock Islands are an archipelago of limestone formations in the ocean.

Nature

Malakal Peak

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

Ngerekebesang Hill

Ngerekebesang Hill is the highest elevation on Ngerekebesang Island.

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Ngermid Bay

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

Jellyfish Lake

An isolated marine lake on Eil Malk island.

More places

Malakal Port

Malakal Port is the primary international maritime gateway for Palau.

Palau International Coral Reef Center

This center is dedicated to the research and protection of Palau's underwater world.

Belau National Museum

The Belau National Museum is the oldest museum in Micronesia.

Roman Catholic Church of Koror

The Catholic church in the center of Koror is an important religious gathering place for the local population.

Etpison Museum

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

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Ngeruktabel Island

Ngeruktabel is the second largest island in the Koror group of Palau.

Ngeruktabel Stone Fort

On the uninhabited island of Ngeruktabel are remains of stone defensive works built before European contact.

Koror-Babeldaob Bridge

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