Parliament House

The seat of Papua New Guinea's government, architecturally distinctive with its design inspired by traditional meeting houses. The building and surrounding precinct represent the nation's political center and modern institutional identity.

Things to do

• Guided Parliament House Tour — Take an official tour of the chamber and legislative halls to see where Papua New Guinea's laws are debated and passed.
• Admire Traditional Architecture Design — Study the building's distinctive design inspired by the kunai houses of Papua New Guinea's highlands, with its soaring roof and open-air courtyards.
• Explore the Parliamentary Precinct Grounds — Walk through the landscaped gardens and plaza surrounding Parliament House to appreciate the modern civic space and take photographs.
• Visit the National Museum Nearby — Head to the adjacent National Museum and Art Gallery to understand Papua New Guinea's history, culture, and artistic heritage in context with the nation's governance.
• Attend a Public Session — Check parliamentary sitting schedules and observe debates from the public gallery to witness democratic processes in action.

Food to try

• Sago with Fish — A staple dish combining sago starch with freshly caught local fish, often prepared with coconut milk and served at local eateries near Parliament House.
• Kaukau (Sweet Potato) — Boiled or roasted sweet potato, a traditional highland staple commonly served at Parliament House cafeteria and surrounding restaurants.
• Betel Nut (Buai) — A mild stimulant chewed socially throughout Papua New Guinea, wrapped in betel leaf and slaked lime, available at markets and street vendors near the precinct.
• Coconut Crab — A delicacy featuring the large terrestrial crab prepared grilled or in coconut-based sauces at fine dining establishments in central Port Moresby.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Parliamentary Decorum — Dress formally and maintain quiet, respectful behavior during parliamentary sessions, as this is the nation's highest deliberative body.
• Understand Local Protocols — Learn that Papua New Guinea has over 800 languages and diverse tribal customs; staff at Parliament House appreciate visitors who show respect for this multicultural heritage.
• Plan Visits During Sitting Days — Parliament typically sits on Tuesdays through Thursdays; check the parliamentary calendar in advance to ensure sessions are in session when you visit.

Nearby

• Papua New Guinea National Museum (Central) — 1 km
• Freedom Square (Central) — 1 km
• National Museum and Art Gallery — 1 km
• Koki Market — 1 km