As part of the New 7 Natural Wonders of the World and a Unesco Heritage, the once remote Komodo National Park is now growing in popularity. One of its island, the Padar Island also grows as one of the most popular destination in Komodo—thanks to its Jurassic-looking, mountainous landscape that lures tourists in. Nowadays Padar is a must-visit destination for every liveaboard trip that sails to Komodo. Though this island seems barren in life, its charming beauty is hard to resist. These five things would make you love your visit to Padar even more!
The Surreal Exoticism of Padar Island
There are few places in the earth where the view is an absolute bless. Padar is one of them. Jagged mountain and hills make up the topography of this island, stretched out facing the Flores Sea. Four crescent beaches, each blessed with different colour of sands formed just right in the foothill. The top viewpoint is the place where you want to see it all. Hiking to the top is not easy; rocky paths and scorching heat from the sun make the trek a bit challenging. Once you reach the top, however, you will be rewarded by breathtaking panoramic scenery overlooking the Komodo National Park! Take your moment to savour the exotic landscape. It’s not everyday you can take a selfie in a stunning backdrop like this.
There’s No Manmade Building in Sight
One thing we love so much about Padar Island is how pristine this little remote island feels. Thanks to its rocky topography, it seems like nobody thinks this island is suitable for building a home. No man made building or any sort of modern facilities—aside of the wooden stairs—are in sight. Completely unadulterated by any touch of modern civilization, Padar feels like completely a world away from the blitz and buzz of the world.
Dozens of Captivating Photography Spot in Padar Island
The iconic landscape view from the top of Padar’s viewpoint is one thing, but it’s not the only spot in Padar that worth a snap. Even before reaching the main viewpoint, Padar offers hundreds of scenic landscape to be photographed. The exotic curve of the hills; the pointy cliff and grassy hilltop; how the wavy hills meets one another in harmonious outlook; how the brownish terrain create a spectacular contrast with the deep turquoise ocean below; Padar is the real embodiment of panoramic galore, indeed. Bring wide lens and drone to get your best shot of Padar!
More Komodo Travelling Stories:
A Virtual Trip Inside the Famous Komodo Dragon Island
A Solo Traveler Tips for Enjoying Komodo Liveaboard
A Place to See Breathtaking Sunrise and Sunset
Do you know that Padar Island is one of few place on earth to see both sunset and sunrise? The island is so small that you can go see the sun rise and fall in both direction. And with almost zero obstruction in the way, watching the sky changes colours during these two moments feels absolutely magical.
No Komodo Hiding in the Crisps Savannah Bushes
Though Padar is part of the Komodo National Park, it’s officially declared as dragon-free. Some rumours say there are three wild dragons that lives in the north part of the island, but there’s no evidence to prove the claim. That means you can go explore the exotic Padar Island without worrying about dragon’s ambush!