Bomana War Cemetery and Museum

Bomana

A solemn site commemorating World War II casualties with a cemetery and museum documenting the Pacific War's significant role in Papua New Guinea. It's an important historical landmark and moving tribute to fallen soldiers.

Things to do

• Pay respects at the cemetery — Walk through the immaculately maintained grounds where over 3,700 Commonwealth servicemen are buried, with white headstones arranged in orderly rows beneath tropical palms.
• Explore the museum exhibits — View photographs, personal effects, letters, and military artifacts that document the experiences of soldiers during the Papua New Guinea campaign of World War II.
• Attend the memorial service — Participate in remembrance ceremonies held on ANZAC Day (April 25) or other significant dates, when wreaths are laid and the stories of fallen soldiers are honored.
• Read individual soldier stories — Study the registry and plaques to learn about specific servicemen, their units, origins, and the circumstances of their service and loss during the war.
• Observe the chapel — Visit the quiet stone chapel at the cemetery's heart, designed as a contemplative space for reflection and prayer honoring the fallen.
• Visit the memorial garden — Stroll through landscaped gardens featuring native plants and sculptural elements that provide peaceful reflection areas throughout the cemetery grounds.

Food to try

• Sago with coconut milk — A traditional Papua New Guinean starch dish made from sago palm, cooked with rich coconut milk and often served with local vegetables.
• Taro root preparations — Boiled or baked taro, a starchy staple vegetable of the region, frequently served as an accompaniment to main dishes.
• Fresh tropical fruits — Local papayas, bananas, coconuts, and passion fruit available from vendors near the cemetery, offering refreshing and authentic PNG flavors.
• Fish and seafood — Fresh catches from nearby waters prepared grilled or in coconut-based curries, reflecting the Pacific coastline's abundant marine resources.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress respectfully — Wear modest, conservative clothing as a mark of respect when visiting the cemetery and museum, particularly covering shoulders and knees.
• Observe silence in the cemetery — Maintain quiet and reverential behavior throughout the grounds, speaking softly and refraining from loud conversation out of respect for the fallen.
• Ask permission before photographing — While photography is generally permitted, always be sensitive about photographing individual graves and show respect to any family members present.
• Understand the historical significance — Papua New Guinea's role in World War II was crucial to the Pacific Theater; locals take pride in this history and appreciate visitors who acknowledge its importance.

Nearby

• Port Moresby Golf Club Area — 4 km
• Loloata Island (National Capital District) — 6 km
• Varirata National Park (National Capital District) — 8 km
• Parliament House — 8 km