Local Favourites

Nestled at the intersection of the traditional lands of the Jawoyn, Dagoman and Wardaman peoples, Katherine is a place of deep significance for Aboriginal culture. Discover the ways you can learn about and experience the rich cultural tapestry of this region. 

Barunga Festival

If you’re visiting the Katherine region in early June, make sure you factor in Barunga Festival. Even if you're not, we definitely suggest planning your journey to fit this into your itinerary. The 3 day annual festival is held in the remote community of Barunga, home to the Bagala people, about 80 km south east of Katherine along the Central Arnhem Highway. 

Barunga Festival has been instrumental in promoting Indigenous culture and raising awareness of issues experienced by Indigenous peoples in Australia. It's a chance for people to celebrate culture, learn, connect and get an insight into community life. The program highlights include bush medicine and weaving workshops, didgeridoo making, live music and a whole lot of football. Community teams go up against each other, but festival goers are also encouraged to get out on the field and have a kick. The Traditional Owners also welcome you to camp in the community, which we think is a pretty special opportunity. 

Top Didj Cultural Experience

Located a short 7 km from Katherine, Top Didj is a hands-on experience that gives you a deeper understanding of Aboriginal culture and traditions. During your visit, you’ll have the chance to meet Indigenous artist and guide Manuel Pamkal, who will share stories about life in the bush. Manuel will teach you the Rarrk painting (cross hatch) technique before you create your own piece of art to take home. You'll also learn about the craft of fire lighting, and how to master the practice of spear throwing. 

Nitmiluk Gorge cultural experiences 

Learn the important stories of the Jawoyn people when you visit Nitmiluk Gorge in Katherine. There are two key Aboriginal cultural experiences we recommend - the Ancient Garlarr River Safari and Footsteps of our Ancestors. 

Footsteps of our Ancestors

Led by local Indigenous guides, learn about Jawoyn culture and traditions including fire lighting, didgeridoo playing and painting. Held at the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre, choose to do a 2 hour tour or an extended 5 hour tour where you’ll get to enjoy a bush morning tea, kangaroo tail tasting and BBQ lunch. 

Ancient Garlarr River Safari

A visit to Katherine isn't complete without a cruise along Nitmiluk Gorge. On the Garlarr River Safari, your Jawoyn guide will share knowledge and cultural traditions unique to the region, from geology and geography to rock art and bush medicine. This hands-on experience also includes spear throwing, didgeridoo playing and basket weaving.