Things To Do In Darwin

Location: Northern Territory on Timor Sea

Languages: English, Greek, Italian, Indonesian, Vietnamese, Cantonese

Best Time to Visit: April to September

Time Zone: ACST (UTC+9:30)

Driving Side: Right Side

Main Attractions: Kakadu National Park, Litchfield National Park, Katherine Gorge, Darwin Botanic Gardens, Cullen Bay Marina, Darwin Wharf Precinct, East Point Reserve, Fannie Bay Gaol Museum, Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory

 

A fast growing tropical oasis located on the edge of the Arafura Sea on Australia’s northern coastline, Darwin is the capital city of the Northern Territory. Though it is the smallest and most northerly Australian capital cities, Darwin has the most youthful population and the right kind of atmosphere to attract enough visitors from across the world. Often mistaken for its small size, Darwin is a marvelous tourist attraction crammed with international restaurants, trendy cafes, shopping malls, marinas and beach-side casinos—enough to keep its visitors occupied. While the days attract you towards the lush esplanade and magnificent views of the harbor, the nights keep you alive and on the toes in the numerous pubs and nightclubs that dominate Darwin’s nightlife. Comprising of a dry and wet season, Darwin brings forward attractions for every season to leave holidays mesmerized and lost. Check out the various places to see and things to do in the lines herein.

 

 

Interestingly larger than Sydney Harbor, Darwin Harbor is the largest source of drinking water to the city. Loose out yourself in the scenic mangroves, pristine tidal waves and lone white shoreline that surrounds the harbor. For recreational activities, you have adventurous scuba diving, fishing barramundi, jewfish, golden snapper and threadfin. Admire the cultural heritage and have a relaxing day out!

 

Spread across 42 hectares, the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens is a major tourist attraction. Founded by the first Government gardener Maurice Holtz in 1886, the gardens are a perfect showcase of north Australian flora and other tropical habitats. Stroll around the open woodlands, monsoon forests, coastal fore-dunes or mangroves. And if you thought that this was enough, the stretches of orchids, aroids, bromeliads, and other foliage plants would definitely leave you spellbound! Do not forget to take your camcorder along with you to capture all the intrinsic enticing beauty of the place.

 

An hour and half-drive from Darwin lands you at one of the most spectacular destinations of the city. Spread across 1,500 square kilometer, the park is home to numerous natural habitats, such as lush monsoon forests, termite mounds, unusual rock formations, waterfalls and cascades. If you happen to visit the park during monsoons, prefer to stay away from the waterfalls. However, if you are lucky enough to travel otherwise, do not hesitate to take a cool dip in the refreshing waters. If you wish to stay overnight, inspect the other interesting attractions, like the Butterfly and Bird Farm and the Coomalie Cultural Center.

 

About 300 kilometers from Darwin lay the tropical township of Katherine filled with hidden gems. Situated on the banks of the Katherine River, the town is home to the world-famous Katherine Gorge. Perfect for adventurous anglers, the gorge is a perfect locale for fishing, bushwalking, canoeing, birdwatching, camping and four-wheel driving. Explore the city through Pine Creek, Mataranka, Victoria River region, Daly River region and Gulf region that offer some spectacular and stunning landscapes and panoramic views.

 

The city of Darwin is itself an exploration. The Chinese Temple located on the Woods Street reveals a long history of destruction through cyclones and bombing raids. A little ahead, you will reach the Esplanade that is filled with natural qualities and heritage sites. Do not miss out the Old Ruins of the Town Hall and Brown’s Mart. The Darwin Wharf Precinct allows you to stroll through the historic walking trails. Watch out the World War II Tunnels and the steam pump house. For some lighter and enjoyable moments, take a helicopter flight and gorge onto some exotic dishes at the Wharf arcade.