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Nourlangie Rock Art Site

Burrunggui

Nourlangie Rock Art Site — Nourlangie is a spectacular outlier of the Arnhem Land escarpment featuring some of Kakadu's finest rock art in a natural rock shelter,…

Natural Landmark · Rock Formation in Northern Territory

Claire AshworthWritten by Claire Ashworth

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World Heritage Status of Nourlangie Rock Art Site

Status
UNESCO World Heritage Site

About Nourlangie Rock Art Site

Nourlangie is a spectacular outlier of the Arnhem Land escarpment featuring some of Kakadu's finest rock art in a natural rock shelter, including figures of Namarrgon the Lightning Man. The Anbangbang Gallery contains vivid ochre and white paintings that were retouched as recently as the 1960s by custodian Nayombolmi. The surrounding rock shelters provided refuge for Aboriginal people for tens of thousands of years.

About

Nourlangie is a spectacular outlier of the Arnhem Land escarpment featuring some of Kakadu's finest rock art in a natural rock shelter, including figures of Namarrgon the Lightning Man. The Anbangbang Gallery contains vivid ochre and white paintings that were retouched as recently as the 1960s by custodian Nayombolmi. The surrounding rock shelters provided refuge for Aboriginal people for tens of thousands of years.

History & Significance

Nourlangie Rock (Burrunggui) has been a significant cultural and spiritual site for Aboriginal people for tens of thousands of years, providing shelter in natural rock overhangs. The Anbangbang Gallery contains some of Kakadu's most important rock art, including the iconic Namarrgon (Lightning Man) figure. These paintings were maintained and retouched by custodian Nayombolmi as recently as the 1960s, demonstrating the continuous cultural significance of the site. Nourlangie is part of the Kakadu National Park UNESCO World Heritage Area, recognised for its outstanding cultural and natural values.

Warnings

Do Not Touch ArtSlippery Rocks When Wet

Getting There

Map of Nourlangie Rock Art Site

From Jabiru, drive south on the Kakadu Highway 21km to the Nourlangie turnoff, then 9km to the car park. Sealed road throughout.

Parking

Free parking available at the Nourlangie Rock site. Accessible parking provided near the main entrance for visitors with mobility requirements. Overflow parking available in the broader Kakadu National Park area during peak season.

Visitor Tips

  • Morning light illuminates the gallery best for photography
  • The 1.5km circular loop takes 45 minutes
  • Nawurlandja Lookout (short steep climb) gives excellent views over Anbangbang Billabong
  • Audio guide available — well worth using for context

Cultural Significance

Nourlangie Rock (Burrunggui) has been a significant cultural and spiritual site for Aboriginal people for tens of thousands of years, providing shelter in natural rock overhangs. The Anbangbang Gallery contains some of Kakadu's most important rock art, including the iconic Namarrgon (Lightning Man) figure. These paintings were maintained and retouched by custodian Nayombolmi as recently as the 1960s, demonstrating the continuous cultural significance of the site. Nourlangie is part of the Kakadu National Park UNESCO World Heritage Area, recognised for its outstanding cultural and natural values.

Quick Facts

At a Glance

Identity

Traditional Name
Burrunggui
Also Known As
["Nourlangie","Burrunggui"]

The Place

UNESCO
World Heritage Site
Significance
World Heritage

Plan Your Visit

Entry
Adult $40 · Child $0
Duration
1-2 hours
Best Time
April to October; morning for best light on the art
Hours
8:00am to 6:00pm daily (dry season); may close in wet season

Good to Know

Wheelchair AccessibleAll ages

Highlights

Anbangbang GalleryLightning Man NamarrgonNawurlandja LookoutRock Shelters

Activities

Cultural ExperiencesPhotographyBirdwatchingGuided Tours

Family & Visitor Info

Ages
All ages
Shade/Cover
Moderate shade
Pram Friendly
Yes

Food & Drink

Picnic AreaBYO Food OK

Picnic areas available at the site; bring your own supplies as no food services on-site

Features

Available:Wheelchair Accessible
Not available:Dog Friendly
Available:Pram/Stroller Friendly
Not available:Camping Available
Available:Tours Available
Available:Guided Walks
Not available:Swimming Allowed
Not available:Lockers Available

Facilities

ToiletsParkingPicnic Area

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