Where is West Papua? Papua was previously known as Irian Jaya before Indonesia’s independence. West Papua is a province in Indonesia located at the western tip of Papua Island. The regions of West Papua district cover Bomberai, Domberai Peninsula, Wondiwoi, and Raja Ampat Islands. The capital city of this province is Manokwari. While the biggest city in West Papua is Sorong. This province is divided into some districts and cities.
When people ask where is West Papua, most people will answer Raja Ampat. It is because Raja Ampat is the most popular destination in West Papua. But there are many other pretty tourist destinations to visit during your holiday. If you want to travel to West Papua, here are the amazing tourist attractions you must not miss to visit.
Teluk Cenderawasih National Park
Located in Teluk Cenderawasih, which is about 5 hours away from West Papua’s capital city, Manokwari, Teluk Cenderawasih National Park is known for its group of islands. This group of islands consists of Yoop Island, Rumberpon Island, Roon Island, Nusrowi Island, and Mioswaar Island. Teluk Cenderawasih is the largest marine national park in Indonesia with almost 90% of it being ocean. Here, you will be able to enjoy tropical forests, mangrove, and beautiful coral reefs.
It can be said that Teluk Cenderawasih National Park is a paradise for divers. It is because this marine national park has incredible varieties of marine biota. Here, you can meet rare turtles, dolphins, sharks, and even blue whales. There is also a pretty alternative to Teluk Cenderawasih, which is Teluk Triton that is located in Kaimana District.
Bakaro Beach
Located in Sunsweni, West Manokwari, Bakaro beach is as beautiful as beaches in Raja Ampat. Thanks to its white sands and crystal-clear blue water, Bakaro beach becomes a special tourist destination in West Papua. It is a perfect place to witness a sunset, creating a romantic atmosphere. This beach also becomes a favourite place for fishing. Then, you can bring the fish to be cooked and enjoyed in the nearest local restaurants.
If you are not an expert in fishing, you can still enjoy culinary tourism in those local restaurants. Other beaches in West Papua that you can visit are Amban beach, Maruni beach, and Pasir Putih beach.
Meja Mountain
For your information, meja means table. It is because this mountain indeed looks like a table from afar. Meja mountain is located in the middle of Manokwari instead of far away from the town, just like most mountains. As a tourist destination for hiking and picnics, Meja Mountain is actually a protected forest area. So that flora and fauna is well-kept there. Here, you can find rare birds and plants along your way in this mountain.
Mansinam Island
Mansinam Island is one of the important islands for locals of West Papua. Located in Teluk Doreh, 6 Km away from Manokwari, this tourist destination in West Papua is believed to be the beginning of the West Papuan people’s civilization. Mansinam Island has gorgeous beaches as well as historical relics that tell a story about the formation of Christianity there. Here, you can see the monument of Jesus statue, just like the one in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Besides Mansinam Island, there is also an interesting island in West Papua that you can visit, which is Amutu Besar Island located in Teluk Bintuni.
Framu Lake
Framu Lake is popular for its crystal-clear blue water. Located in Ayamaru, Framu Lake is surrounded by lush trees, making the atmosphere here totally cool and clean. Visit this lake if you just want to get relaxed, enjoying the panorama without doing much. Besides Framu Lake, another pretty lake you can visit in West Papua is Kamakawalor Lake located in Lobo.
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