The Bomana War Cemetery is the largest war cemetery in Papua New Guinea and one of the most solemn and moving memorial sites in the Pacific. Located just outside Port Moresby, it serves as the final resting place for thousands of Allied soldiers who lost their lives during the Second World War, particularly in the brutal campaigns fought across the Owen Stanley Range and along the Kokoda Trail.
For many visitors — especially from Australia and New Zealand — a visit to Bomana War Cemetery Papua New Guinea is both personal and powerful. The rows of white headstones, immaculate grounds, and stories etched into the memorial walls provide a space for reflection and remembrance. As a key destination in WWII heritage tourism, the Port Moresby Bomana War Cemetery is a place where history, sacrifice, and human connection are deeply felt.
History of Bomana War Cemetery
The Bomana War Cemetery was established after the Second World War by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) to honour Allied soldiers who died in Papua New Guinea during the Pacific campaigns. Many of those buried here lost their lives in the Kokoda Campaign, one of the most challenging and strategically significant battles fought between Australian and Japanese forces in the region.
Today, the cemetery contains 3,824 war graves, including 699 unidentified soldiers whose names are commemorated on memorial walls within the site. Each headstone, regardless of rank or nationality, reflects the CWGC’s commitment to equality in remembrance.
The cemetery not only provides a dignified resting place for the fallen but also stands as a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and the enduring bond between Papua New Guinea, Australia, and other Allied nations.
Visiting Bomana War Cemetery
The Port Moresby Bomana War Cemetery is located approximately 19 kilometres northeast of the city centre, making it a less than 30 minute drive from the capitals cbd. The site is easily accessible by car or as part of a guided tour, and is often included in historical itineraries alongside the Kokoda Track Memorial at Owers’ Corner.
The cemetery is open daily to the public and free to enter, with well-maintained paths and gardens that invite quiet reflection. Visitors will find over 3,000 uniform white headstones, carefully arranged on green lawns, along with memorial plaques honouring the missing. The peaceful setting, framed by hills and tropical trees, contrasts deeply with the stories of hardship and sacrifice it represents.
Visitor etiquette:
While there’s no formal dress code, respectful attire and behaviour are expected. Visitors are encouraged to speak quietly, avoid stepping on graves, and treat the space with care and reverence. Photography is allowed, but should be done thoughtfully, particularly when other visitors are present.
A visit to the Bomana War Cemetery near Port Moresby offers a chance not only to pay respects, but to gain a deeper understanding of the lives lost and the historical ties that continue to connect Papua New Guinea with countries around the world.
Why Visit Bomana War Cemetery
A Place of Reflection and Remembrance
The peaceful setting, carefully maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, invites quiet reflection. The sheer scale of the cemetery offers a powerful, human reminder of the lives lost in the Pacific War.
Connected to the Kokoda Trail
Many of the soldiers buried here died during the Kokoda Campaign, making the cemetery especially meaningful for those walking or learning about the trail. It provides important historical context before or after visiting the Kokoda Track.
Educational and Personal Value
- Offers insight into WWII’s impact on Papua New Guinea
- Valuable for ancestry research and commemoration
- Suitable for school groups, historians, and culturally aware travellers
Included in Local Tours
The cemetery is often featured in:
- Port Moresby city tours
- Kokoda Trail packages
Whether you’re tracing family history, exploring military history, or seeking a moment of quiet respect, Bomana War Cemetery provides a unique and meaningful stop in Port Moresby.
Nearby Sites to Explore
Kokoda Track Memorial at Owers’ Corner
Located at the southern end of the Kokoda Trail, this memorial honours the soldiers who fought in one of WWII’s most grueling campaigns. The site offers sweeping views of the Owen Stanley Range and serves as a symbolic start or end point for those walking the trail. It pairs meaningfully with a visit to Bomana, deepening the historical context.
National Museum and Art Gallery, Port Moresby
Just a short drive from the cemetery, this museum offers a curated look at Papua New Guinea’s cultural and wartime history. It’s a great place to explore traditional artefacts, WWII exhibits, and regional heritage collections.
Port Moresby Nature Park
For a contrasting experience, the Nature Park offers a relaxing and educational environment showcasing PNG’s native wildlife and tropical plant life. It’s well-suited for families or travellers looking to unwind after visiting more solemn sites.
Travel Tips for Visiting Bomana War Cemetery
Visit During the Dry Season
The cooler, drier months between May and October offer the most comfortable conditions for walking and sightseeing.
Consider a Guided Tour
Local guides and WWII history tours provide valuable context and can combine your visit with other significant sites, such as the Kokoda Track Memorial or Port Moresby’s war museums.
Prepare for the weather
The cemetery is open and exposed, with limited shade. Bring water, wear a hat, and apply sunscreen.
Respect the Space
As a war cemetery, visitors should dress modestly, speak quietly, and avoid stepping on graves. Photography is permitted but should be discreet and respectful.
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