Guide to Katherine & Surrounds Northern Territory Australia

Katherine, the third largest town in the Northern Territory, has a population of around 11,000 and is located on the banks of the Katherine River, around three hours drive from Darwin.

Known For:

• Natural beauty
• Outdoor adventure
• Cultural experiences

From breathtaking natural beauty to unique cultural experiences, this region of Australia has something for everyone. Visitors can explore national parks full of wildlife, visit ancient Aboriginal sites, or take relaxing bush walks through natural landscapes. Additionally, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to enjoy a delicious meal, while nearby activities like fishing and swimming provide additional entertainment options.

For those seeking a cultural experience, the town of Katherine is home to plenty of historic buildings and monuments worth exploring. There are a range of exciting attractions to see, from the Katherine Outback Heritage Museum, to the Katherine Hot Springs.

The Jawoyn Aboriginal people first settled the area thousands of years ago, and the town was named Katherine by the explorer John McDouall Stuart, after Catherine, the daughter of his benefactor. Katherine, often described as a place where ‘the outback meets the tropics,’ is well equipped with a range of accommodation and facilities.

Travellers visiting Katherine may like to browse the Katherine Railway Museum or view the fine collection of Aboriginal art at the Katherine Art Gallery, relax in the Katherine Thermal Springs, gain an insight into the workings of a cattle station with a visit to the historic Springvale Homestead, built in 1878, or explore the Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park, located a short distance from the town.

Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge) is within easy reach of the town. Travellers can canoe, cruise and swim between sheer cliffs to the sandy freshwater beaches of the main gorges, and view ancient Aboriginal rock paintings high on rock faces of this spectacular natural wonder.