Have you heard of East Timor, a country that only gained independence from Indonesia in 2002? Located on the eastern side of Timor Island, which it shares with Indonesia, this island nation is filled with breathtaking natural beauty that remains largely untouched, making it a truly captivating destination!
This time, we’ve carefully selected seven recommended tourist spots in East Timor where you can fully enjoy its charm. Be sure to use this guide as a reference for your travels!
1.Cristo Rei
One tourist spot you absolutely cannot miss when visiting East Timor is Cristo Rei, the giant statue of Christ. Due to East Timor's long history as a Portuguese colony, 99% of its citizens are Christians. Cristo Rei stands at an impressive 27 meters tall, making it the second-largest statue of Christ in the world!
Located about a 20-30 minute drive from Dili, the capital of East Timor, you can reach the statue after climbing stairs for about 15 minutes from the base. From the hilltop where the statue stands, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city of Dili and the expansive blue ocean. On holidays, it is a popular gathering spot for the locals.
When you visit East Timor, don't forget to stop by and see this iconic landmark!
Name: Cristo Rei
Address: Christu Rei, Dili, East Timor
2.East Timor Resistance Museum
Next on the list of recommended tourist spots in East Timor is the East Timor Resistance Museum. This museum showcases the history and events that led to East Timor’s independence. Once a Portuguese colony and later under Indonesian rule, East Timor finally gained its independence, but only after great sacrifice. Here, you can learn about the suffering and pain endured by the East Timorese people.
The museum also serves as a place of remembrance for the tragic Santa Cruz Massacre, where many citizens lost their lives. It’s a significant place to visit if you want to understand East Timor's journey to independence.
Name: The Archives & Museum of East Timorese Resistance
Address: Rua de Cidade de Lisboa, Dili, East Timor
Official/related website URL: http://amrtimor.org/amrt/index.php?lingua=en
3.Santa Cruz Cemetery
After visiting the East Timor Resistance Museum, another recommended spot is the Santa Cruz Cemetery. This is the resting place of the citizens who were victims of the 1991 Santa Cruz Massacre, which is also featured in the museum.
Every year, November 12th, the anniversary of the massacre, is observed as Santa Cruz Memorial Day, a national holiday in East Timor. On this day, the cemetery is filled with citizens paying respects to their loved ones, where people visit their ancestors' graves.
The hope that such a tragedy will never happen again is a sentiment shared by people across the world. You, too, can offer a prayer for peace here.
Name: Santa Cruz Cemetery
Address: Rua de Santa Cruz, Díli, República Democrática de Timor-Leste
4.Jaco Island
When you think of East Timor, the image of beautiful, blue seas comes to mind! Visiting East Timor without going to the beach would be a missed opportunity.
Next on the list of must-see spots is Jaco Island. Located in the easternmost part of East Timor, Jaco Island is a designated national park and the least populated island in East Timor. With its crystal-clear, blue waters and white sandy beaches surrounded by coral reefs, Jaco Island is truly a natural paradise.
Although it takes over 6 hours to drive from Dili, the capital, the experience is well worth it. Why not take a break from the busy life and enjoy a peaceful, heavenly retreat in East Timor?
Name: Jaco Island
Address: Jaco Island, Com, East Timor
Official/related website URL: http://visiteasttimor.com/timor/jaco-island/
5.Mount Ramelau
Next, after the sea, comes the mountain! Mount Ramelau, the highest peak in East Timor, is another recommended tourist spot. Located in the western part of the central mountain range of East Timor, it stands at an altitude of 2,963 meters. The mountain is revered by the local people as a sacred place.
At the summit, a statue of the Virgin Mary welcomes climbers and watches over their safety. During the hike, you can hire a porter to carry your heavy bags, allowing you to walk with ease and focus on the journey.
The beauty of the sunrise at the summit is breathtaking and will wash away the fatigue of the climb. If you love mountain walks or hiking, this is a must-see spot.
Name: Mount Ramelau
Address: Foho Tatamailau, East Timor
6.Arte Moris
Next on the list of recommended tourist spots in East Timor is Arte Moris. This is a place where you can appreciate art such as paintings, sculptures, and other artistic works from East Timor. In a country without institutions for learning art, Arte Moris plays the role of an art school.
Established in 2003 with the support of a Swiss organization, this facility is where young aspiring artists can engage in creative activities while also teaching art to children. Entry is free, and the gallery also offers the opportunity to purchase artworks.
Why not immerse yourself in the art of East Timor’s future artists? If you're interested, make sure to stop by.
Name: Arte Moris
Address: Av. Pres. Nicolau Lobato Díli, East Timor
7.Tais Market
After enjoying the sights of East Timor, it's time for some shopping! Visit Tais Market to get souvenirs from your trip to East Timor.
Tais is the traditional woven fabric of East Timor. At the market, you can purchase traditional clothing, bags, and other accessories made from tais. You can also witness the actual weaving process in some of the shops.
With its bright, colorful fabrics, you'll find it hard to choose! Stylish rugs and pouches are especially popular, and you can even order customized items with your name on them. They make for perfect souvenirs that are sure to be appreciated.
Name: Tais Market
Address: R. Sebastião da Costa, Díli, East Timor
Official/related website URL: http://visiteasttimor.com/good-to-know/street-markets-dili/
◎ Conclusion
How was it? East Timor is a newly independent nation. Though still a relatively unknown destination, it is a country full of natural beauty and exciting tourist spots. Why not escape the everyday routine and visit before it becomes crowded with tourists? The beautiful emerald green sea awaits to welcome you!