Padar

Padar Island, also known as Pulau Padar, is a volcanic island in the Flores Sea and part of Komodo National Park in the East Nusa Tenggara province of Indonesia. It lies northeast of Rinca and west of Flores, and the island is within the protected area established for Komodo National Park in 1980, a UNESCO World Heritage Site designated in 1991. The island sits within a marine and terrestrial conservation zone that encompasses several of the park’s islands and surrounding waters.

Geographically, Padar is characterized by a rugged interior shaped by volcanic activity, with sparse scrub and undulating hills. The coastline comprises several coves with white-sand beaches and clear, sheltered waters. The site is particularly known for a hilltop viewpoint accessed by a short hike, from which visitors can overlook three bays with water displaying varying shades of blue and green.

Access and tourism for Padar are typically via day trips from Labuan Bajo on Flores, often combined with visits to neighboring islands. Trails lead to the viewpoint, and visitor facilities are limited. Tourism is regulated under park rules to minimize environmental impact and protect the island’s ecosystems.

Ecology and conservation-wise, Padar lies within Komodo National Park, a protected area that safeguards marine habitats, coral reefs, and native flora and fauna. There are no permanent settlements on the island, and tourism is managed to reduce disturbance to wildlife and habitats, reflecting the park’s broader conservation objectives.

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