pni-surfclub – Page 4 – Pohnpei Eco-Adventure Guide

Water Bottles

Gear Advice: Water Bottles for Pohnpei

Hard-Sided Bottles

Hard-sided plastic bottles made by companies like Nalgene are a common choice among backpackers.

PROS: They don’t leak in your bag or crack when dropped (at least the stalwart classic model).

CONS: They’re heavy and bulky, and an empty bottle will take up just as much space in your pack as a full one. This is a problem when you’re doing longer hikes, where every bit of your backpack real estate is precious, or when covering very rough terrain, when you want your load as light as possible.

Collapsible Bottles

An alternative to hard bottles are soft-sided bottles, like those sold by Platypus. These are essentially the modern version of the water skin. They have small openings to prevent the water from spewing out when handled.

PROS: They’re light and can compress to next to nothing when empty.

CONS: They can rip or puncture, and they aren’t as easy to refill as hard-sided bottles because of the small mouths.

Hydration Bladders / Reservoirs

A third choice for water storage is a hydration bladder or reservoir. This is essentially a large, plastic water sack with a drinking tube and valve at one end. Bladders usually go with a canvass or nylon pouch or backpack-style carrier. Many good companies make them, including Camelbak, Platypus, MSR, Nalgene, and Osprey.

PROS: There are several really strong points to using bladders. They allow you to distribute the weight of the water you’re carrying evenly across your back, and they are lighter than hard-sided bottles. The bladders are designed to lay flat, and because they are soft-sided, you’ll never have to worry about the corner of a bottle sticking into your ribs or scapula as you hike. You can find backpacks with an outside pocket specifically designed to hold the reservoir. The reservoir doesn’t need to be removed from your pack in order to drink, because the drinking tube is always hanging over your shoulder. In fact, you don’t even need to stop hiking; you can just grab the valve with your mouth and bite down on it to drink as you chug along. Almost all bladders have a large screw-top opening, which makes filling them easier.

CONS: Reservoirs are designed to carry all your water, so they tend to be much bigger than soft-sided bottles, and as you drink the water, what’s left sloshes around a lot until you stop to refill. Marginally annoying. They are also heavier than soft-sided bottles, mainly due to the drinking tube. Like soft-sided bottles, bladders can be punctured or torn and are also prone to leaks at the seams. Filling them completely can be a challenge if you’re dealing with a stream or waterfall; you’ll need someone to hold the bladder up in the air and then either pour or pump water into it (you can’t fill it while the thing is lying on the ground). The bite valves get chewed up over time and don’t work as well anymore. They can also clog easily if there’s any sediment in your water. Perhaps the biggest drawback is keeping bladders clean. They don’t dry easily inside and are prone to bacterial and fungal growth; it is necessary to regularly flush them with vinegar, baking soda, or bleach. Sometimes the water can taste a bit funky compared to other types of water storage — probably due to the previous point. Finally, bladders are the most expensive option for water storage.

For an in-depth review of the top 10 hydration bladder models on the market, check out this article at SealGrinderPT.

OUR RECOMMENDATION: Hard-sided bottles are fine for half-day hikes, but soft-sided, collapsible bottles are more practical for longer treks when weight and efficient use of pack-space are crucial. Bladders have some definite advantages for shorter hikes, but also score below soft-sided bottles in terms of practicality for multi-treks in challenging terrain.

Adventures >> Gear Recommendations >> Water Bottles

By pni-surfclubPosted on November 1, 2015July 28, 2016Posted in basics, camping, gear, hiking & trekking, waterTagged bladders, fsm, gear, hiking, hydration, islands, micronesia, nalgene hard-sided bottles, oceania, pacific, platypus soft-sided bottles, pohnpei, ponape, recommendations, reservoirs, trekking, water bottles

Shelters

Gear Advice: Shelters

Tents

Weekend hikers usually think of tents as the definitive backpacking shelter, but they actually have many drawbacks. One tent model is available for purchase on Pohnpei, but it’s so heavy you’d never want to hike anywhere with it much less Pohnpei’s rugged mountains and rainforest. Those set on using a tent should bring one from home. Sierra Designs is a good brand.

PROS: Tents are easy to set up on any patch of relatively flat ground and don’t require trees. They protect sleepers against wind and blowing rain. They keep the bugs out.

CONS: They’re very heavy and bulky. Even the most well-ventilated models don’t provide enough airflow to be comfortable in Pohnpei’s extremely warm, humid climate, soaking the occupants in sweat and the condensation from their breath. They require a groundsheet as insulation, which is added weight in your pack. The typically nylon rainflies won’t be able to stand up to Pohnpei’s torrential rains for very long. The poles sometimes break. Finally, good tents are really expensive — $500+ is not unusual.

Tarp Systems

The “big blue tarp” that is widely sold on Pohnpei is terrible for hiking — bulky, very heavy, and difficult to hang without a lot of conveniently located trees and skeins of heavy rope. There are, however, tarps that are well-designed for trekking. The best are made by Mountain Laurel Designs.

For a single sleeper, the 2.1 x 1.5 x 2.7 meter (7 x 5 x 9 ft) Cuben Fiber Grace is a good choice. It only weighs 180 g (5.9 oz), the ridgeline is bonded and taped, and there are 8 tie-outs. The tarp can be hung as an A-frame with a ridgeline or pitched like a tent with trekking poles as the vertical supports. Cuben Fiber can stand up to a solid night of heavy rain without issue.

For a pair of sleepers, the Cuben Fiber Grace has a larger 2.6 x 2.1 x 2.8 meter (8.5 x 7 x 9.2 ft) version that weighs 225 g (7.8 oz). Also, a larger, heavier option is the 3.2 x 2.6 meter (10.5 x 8.5 ft) Hammock Hexagon Tarp, which weighs 241 g (8.5 oz). It also has a bonded and taped ridgeline seam, but only 6 tie-outs. Though it is designed to hang above a hammock, it can also be pitched A-frame tent style with trekking poles.

PROS: These tarps are super light and pack small, can handle Pohnpei’s regular torrents, and provide plenty of durability. Unlike tents, they allow plenty of airflow, making sleeping more comfortable.

CONS: They’re super expensive — $285-300. They take some experience to hang properly and can be frustrating if you don’t know what you’re doing. If you’re pitching tent-style, you’ll need trekking poles or something else to use as vertical supports.

OUR RECOMMENDATION: The benefits of tarps far out-weigh those of tents when trekking on Pohnpei. Both the MLD Grace and Hammock Hexagon models are great choices that will perform well in island conditions.

How-To Videos

How to Hang a Ridgeline

How to Tie a Cow Hitch Knot

How to Use a Sleeping Hammock

Adventures >> Gear Recommendations >> Shelters

By pni-surfclubPosted on November 1, 2015November 29, 2015Posted in basics, camping, gear, hiking & trekkingTagged fsm, gear, hiking, islands, micronesia, mountain laurel designs cuben fiber grace tarp, mountain laurel designs hammock hexagon tarp, oceania, pacific, pohnpei, recommendations, shelters, sierra designs tents, tarp systems, tarps, tents, trekking

Protected: incidentals

By pni-surfclubPosted on September 25, 2015March 12, 2016Posted in Uncategorized

Protected: Destinations

By pni-surfclubPosted on September 25, 2015November 18, 2015Posted in adventures

Pohnpei Place Names

An Index

A B C D E I K L M N O P R S T U W Y

“Adam’s Apple, The”: (named by Matthew Mann and Jonathan White) a rock wall south of Paipalap near Takain Ripkapehd on Sokehs Island and the site of bolted sport-climbing routes [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Aderoi: “stick holding up the sail”; a populated place on the coast of U Municipality [see U & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Alamoar: see Moar [see U & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Alauso: an area in southwestern Kitti near a number of prehistoric sites [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Alohkapw Kousapw: “new road”; a district in northern Madolenihmw, where Olsihpa and Olsohpa attempted to build before founding Nan Madol [see U & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

And Atoll: popularly but erroneously spelled “Ant”; a privately-owned, uninhabited atoll fifteen kilometers southwest of Pohnpei and the site of several marine protected areas (MPA) and a UNESCO Marine Biosphere Reserve; Isokelekel lived here for a time before beginning his conquest of Saudeleur-ruled Pohnpei [see Islands]

Anse: a place on the south coast of Takaieu island in Madolenihmw Municipality [see U & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

APSCO: a gravel quarry at the northwestern end of Sokehs Island and the site of a popular swimming spot [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Areu Kousapw: a district on a long peninsula in northern Madolenihmw Municipality [see U & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Areu Point: the northernmost point of the Areu peninsula in Madolenihmw Municipality [see U & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Areu Surf Break: a surf spot on the north corner of Kepidauen Alohkapw [see U & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Asama Bridge: see Dausokele Bridge

Auresei: a section of fringe reef off the north end of Sokehs Island, where Sou Iap‘s companions saw a girl collecting clams (Soulik en And chased this girl all the way to Nett, where he named the hillside called Nan Kiepw) [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Auatik: “small mouth”; an island of Areu Point in Madolenihmw Municipality [see U & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Awak Pah Marine Park: a small family-run “marine park” in Awak Pah district, U Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide and U Municipality & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Awak Valley: a valley in U Municipality that is completely enclosed except at the north end, is one of first places people settled on Pohnpei, and is known for the fertility of its soil — also Kepin Awak [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide and U Municipality & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

“Black Coral Island”: a small privately-owned barrier reef island off Pohnpei’s southwest coast east of Dauen Kehpara, where huts are available for camping [see Islands]

Central School: see Pohnpei Island Central School (PICS) — also Bailey Olter H.S. for a time

Dahu Reirei: “long passage”; a long, narrow semi-man-made island in the lagoon off the east coast of Madolenihmw and the site of a small picnic and camping operation [see Islands and Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dakehlap Ridge: see Uhlulen Dakehlap

Dakemei: a reef off the southern coast of Parem Island, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Danipei: a Mwoakillese community on the northeastern coast of Sokehs Island and the site of the trail leading to Paipalap; a place that figured prominently in the events of the Sokehs Rebellion [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Dapahu: a large man-made islet near the middle of the Nan Madol complex where canoes were constructed [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Dau: a man-made islet in Madol Powe at Nan Madol where the weapons of the guards were sharpened and a sacred eel was kept [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Dauen Moahk: “channel of the moahk fish”; a narrow mangrove channel in Madolenihmw Municipality that skirts Temwen Island’s south side from Nan Madol to the Temwen causeway, believed to be the route by which ceremonial dancers entered Nan Madol [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Dauen Nankieilmwahu: “channel of the good lizard”; a canal passing through Nan Madol named after a flying lizard that was said to have assisted in the building of the city [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Dauen Neu Stream: see Pilen Dauen Neu

Dauen Sapwalap: “channel of the large land”; a mangrove passage and estuary that forms the largest drainage in Madolenihmw; the demi-god Lapongo dug the feature with his penis and it later became the home of a monstrous eel — the matriarch of the Lasialap clan [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dauen Senipehn: “channel of Senipehn“; a mangrove passage south of Diadi district, Madolenihmw (not the mouth of the Senipehn River) — also Dewen Senipehn [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dauen Tomwara: “channel of peace offerings”; a mangrove channel west of Dien district, Kitti, and south of Tomwara district, Sokehs [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Dauen Wetiak: a mangrove passage northwest of Diadi district, Madolenihmw — also Dewen Wetiak [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Daumwoakote: a long mangrove passage between Sokehs Island and Pohnpei Island [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Dausokele: a large estuary at the mouth of several major rivers in Nett Municipality, spanned by the longest bridge on the island [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dausokele Bridge: the longest bridge on Pohnpei, spanning the wide Dausokele estuary east of Kolonia Town in Nett Municipality — also Asama Bridge [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dausong: a parcel of land on the eastern side of Lenger Island in Nett Municipality [see Lenger Island Map Guide]

Deh Kousapw: an alternate name for Roie district on Sokehs Island, named after the island in Chuuk’s Mortlock Islands where most the of the current inhabitants originated [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Dehpehk: one of four large, mountainous lagoon islands in U Municipality, a kousapw of the municipality, and the site of a prehistoric megalithic ruin related to Nan Madol [see U Municipality & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide and Islands]

Dekehmwahu: “good island”; a small privately-owned island in Madolenihmw Municipality east of Nahpali Island [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Islands]

Dekehn Awak: “island of Awak”; a reef east of Awak Powe in U Municipality [see U & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dekehn Iap: a community in Kahmar district, Nett Municipality, west of the Pilen Kahmar bridge [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dekehos Marine Protected Area (MPA): a sanctuary encompassing Kepidauen Mwahnd and the reefs around it [see U & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dekehtik: “little island”; (1) a small island in Madolenihmw Municipality east of Temwen Island that was once part of Na Island [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Islands] (2) a small man-made islet at Nan Madol near Dorong islet [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol ] (3) an island north of Kolonia Town composed mostly of mangroves and the site of the Pohnpei International Airport and Commercial Harbor [see Kolonia Town Map Guide]

Dekein: a large flat area in Kahmar district, Nett Municipality, south of Nett Elementary School [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Deleur: a hill of 183 meters in southwestern Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Dehpehk Kousapw: “floating land”; a district in U Municipality comprised of the island of Dehpehk [see U & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dehpehk Marine Protected Area (MPA): a marine sanctuary encompassing the eastern coasts and reefs of Dehpehk island in U Municipality [see U & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dehpehk: “floating land”; a long island off the east coast of U Municipality [see U & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Diadi: “floating area”; a community on the coast of the Dolopwail peninsula north of Temwen Island, Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Diadi Kousapw: “floating area”; a name borne by districts in central Madolenihmw, western Kitti, and Nett [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide and Western Kitti Map Guide]

Diadi (Site 30-16): a 9 x 11 meter prehistoric stone platform with an enclosing wall in Diadi district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Dien: a 30 meter hill in Lukop district, Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Diendoar: a community on the eastern coast of Parem Island, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dien Kara: a reef north of Mesenpal, U Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dien Kousapw: “push away”; a name borne by districts in northern Kitti and central U [see Western Kitti Map Guide and U Municipality & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dietakai: “poke the rock”; a parcel of land on the northeastern side of Lenger Island in Nett Municipality and the site of a large Japanese barracks foundation and seaplane hangar [see Lenger Island Map Guide]

Dipwilap: “great clan”; a 420 meter mountain peak in the interior of Madolenihmw named after a major clan on Pohnpei [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dipwilap Stream: see Pilen Dipwilap

Diwien Lemwir Stream: see Pilen Diwien Lemwir [see U & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dolakapw: “new hill”; a peak of 290 meters in Ipwitek district, Madolenihmw Municipality [see U & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dollap: “big hill”; a 161 meter hill in Eirike district, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dolapampap: “swimming hill”; a 44 meter hill at the south end of Parem Island, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dolekei Kousapw: “hill of anointing”; a district in northeastern Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

“Doldrums, The”: a swimming spot on the west side of the APSCO Gravel Quarry property on Sokehs Island named after a barge that used to be docked there [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Dolehtik: “little hill”; (1) a small island at the north end of Sokehs Island and part of the APSCO Gravel Quarry [see Sokehs Island Map Guide] (2) a small privately-owned island in the lagoon southwest of Rohnkitti, Kitti [see Islands]

Dolen Aip: “hill of the drum”; a 160 meter hill west of Sapwalap, Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dolen Daukatau: “hill of the channel to Katau”; a 127 meter hill north of Nanuh district in U Municipality [see U & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dolen Dehpehk: “hill of Dehpehk”; a 100 meter hill and the highest point on Dehpehk island in U Municipality [see U & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dolen Dolekei: “hill of Dolekei“; a 230 meter hill in eastern Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dolen Eirike: “hill of Eirike“; a pyramid-shaped 470 meter mountain in Eirike district, Nett Municipality, near the location where myth says a tree descended to heaven and was later made into a magical canoe; it was fortified by the Japanese prior to WWII [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dolen Kahk: “stepping hill”; an incline on the ridge south of Kupwuriso in U Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide and U Municipality & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dolen Kahmar: “hill of Kahmar“; a 181 meter peak at the south end of a long plateau that separates Lewi from Kahmar district in Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dolen Koio: a hill of 292 meters between Pwudoi and Salapwuk districts in western Kitti — also “Rakuh Hill” [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Dolen Lenger: “hill of Lenger“; (1) a 77 meter hill in the center of Lenger Island in Nett Municipality [see Lenger Island Map Guide] (2) a 226 meter hill south of the Nanipil Reservoir in Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dolen Lepen: “hill of the Lepen“; a 466 meter mountain peak in the Madolenihmw interior north of the Senipehn River [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dolen Lewi: “hill of Lewi“; a 131 meter peak in the middle of a long plateau that separates Lewi from Kahmar district in Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dolen Metipw: “hill of Metipw“; a hill of 83 meters just south of Kolonia in Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dolen Merewi: “hill of Merewi“; a 252 meter mountain west of Kitamw, Madolenihmw, where Nahnmwarki Pol took refuge from the Spanish forces in 1890 [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dolen Nanikep: a 565 meter peak above Uhluhlen Dakehlap in the south of in Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dolen Nahnsapwe: “hill of thunder”; a 593 meter peak near the border of U and Nett Municipality, where some say thunder originates [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dolen Nett: “hill of Nett”; (1) a 232 meter hill in Nanipil district, Nett Municipality (2) the 227 meter mountain that runs the length of the Nett Point Peninsula and is said to have been formed by the body of a giant eel [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dolen Ngehn: “spirit hill”; a stone pinnacle immediately south of Sokehs Rock and the site of several bolted sport climbs — also Paipen Ngehn, but more commonly known as “The Spire” among rock climbers [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Dolen Nier: a hill of 145 meters southwest of Kolonia and the summit in Nett Municipality where Cupid’s Bar & Grille is located — also Dolonier [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dolen Parem: a 86 meter hills in the middle of Parem Island, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dolen Pohnauleng: “hill in the grass”; a 230 meter hill on the top of a long plateau in central Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dolen Pohn Mwekioar: a hill of 97 meters in Dien district, western Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Dolen Pwil: a 452 meter hill on the border between Nett and U municipalities, northeast of Paremkep district [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide and U Municipality & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dolen Reirei: “long hill”; a portion of the mountain ridge separating Nett from U near the location of two 15 cm Japanese naval guns — the highest guns on the island [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide and U Municipality & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dolen Salapwuk: “hill of Salapwuk“; a peak of 510 meters on the Ni Otoht ridge in Salapwuk district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Dolen Samaki: an 86 meter hill in Wenik district, Kitti, with a prehistoric stone structure at its peak [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Dolen Samaki (Site 30-18): a prehistoric stone enclosure on an 86 meter hill in Wenik district, Kitti, with a huge magical boulder (takai wek mai) that was used in combination with a spell to ensure a good breadfruit harvest and three other large boulders; the site is featured in the Utin Iap oral history [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Dolen Sapwtik: “hill of the little land”; a 33 meter hill in the center of Sapwtik Island in Nett Municipality [see Lenger Island Map Guide]

Dolen Sekir: a 261 meter peak southwest of Liduduhniap waterfall in Nanipil district, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dolen Sounpwong: “hill of the moon”; a 200 meter rock peak on Sokehs Island that is said to align with the setting moon [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Dolen Uh: “standing hill”; a treeless 94 meter hill in western Kitti immediately adjacent to the sacred eel pools of Pwudoi [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Dolen Wahir: a 140 meter hill located east of Pilen Sapwtakai in southwestern Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Dolepwel: “hill of dirt”; (1) a 250 meter mountain peak northwest of Sapwalap, Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide] (2) a 551 meter peak south of Kupwuriso in U Municipality [see U Municipality & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Doletikitik: “tiny hill”; a 51 meter hill on the coast of Pehleng district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Dolmweir: “loose / shifting hill” — a reference to the potential for landslides at this spot; a peak on the border of Sokehs and Nett municipalities [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Dolomar Paiei (Site 35-26): a two-tiered stone platform in Sapwtakai district, Kitti, with terraces on two sides [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Dolomar Pailong (Site 35-14): a stone platform southwest of Sapwtakai ruins in Sapwtakai district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Dolonier: see Dolen Nier

Dolonier Kousapw: a variant of Dolen Nier; a district in Nett Municipality just south of Kolonia Town [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Dolopwail Kousapw: a district in east-central Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dolopwuropwur: “coconut hole drilling hill”; a 60 m peak in Madolenihmw Municipality near the middle of Temwen Island and the site of a large Japanese WWII gun battery [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Dolsamwol: a 132 meter peak on the Dolopwail peninsula in central Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Dorong: a large man-made islet in Madol Pah at Nan Madol and the site of a large reef pool where anadara clams were cultivated for ceremonial purposes [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

“Easy Pass”: see Kepidauen Kiepw

Edienleng Kousapw: “end of heaven”; a district in northern Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Eir Kousapw: “southern land”; a district on the northeastern coast of Sokehs Island, populated primarily by immigrants from Mwoakilloa Atoll [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Eirike Kousapw: a district in Nett Municipality near Dolen Eirike [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Elen Eni: “ghost path” — derived from the words “ahl” (path) and “eni” (ghost); the sacred burial site of a number of traditional high priests, called soumw, in Salapwuk, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Elieliwi Kousapw: a district in central Madolenihmw north of Sekeren Senipehn [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Genesis: a private hospital owned and staffed by Filipinos and located in Nett just east of Kolonia Town [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

“Ice Dock”: (1) a floating dock behind the old Public Market building in Kolonia Town (2) a dock in Lepweltik near the Ice Plant, north of the turn-off to Temwen Island in Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Idehd: a man-made islet near the center of Madol Pah at Nan Madol where turtles were baked and fed to a sacred eel and the site of a large midden [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Ipwal Kousapw: “temporary house”; a district at the northwestern side of Sokehs Island and the place where Olsihpa and Olsohpa first landed when coming to Pohnpei [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Ipwek: a community in southern Awak Pah district in U Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Iro Stream: see Pilen Iro

Kahmar Kousapw: a district in northern Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Kahmar Stream: see Pilen Kahmar

Kahnimweiso: “city of the nobles”; an ancient stone city pre-dating Nan Madol that was believed to lie between existing Nan Madol and Nahkapw Island in Madolenihmw Municipality [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Kamau Pwoungapwoung: “continuous blessings”; a pool and waterfall at the headwaters of Pilen Dipwilap in the interior of Madolenihmw and the place where Isokelekel’s men defeated the last Saudeleur (he transformed himself into a small blue fish and jumped into the waterfall) [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Kamwele: a Pingelapese community on the southeastern coast of Sokehs Island [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Kawad Stream: see Pilen Kawad

Kehnmantirik River: see Pillapen Kenmantirik

Kehpara: a small privately-owned barrier reef island immediately north of Dauen Kehpara and the site of a small camping operation [see Islands]

Kelepwel: “walled soil”; a man-made islet next to Pahn Kadira at Nan Madol where the conqueror Isokelekel and his men resided before taking up arms against the Saudeleur; also the place where a traditional rock-throwing game was played and where Westerners resided in the 1800s [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Kepidauen Deleur: “passage of Deleur” — Deleur was the name of the central realm that was ruled by Nan Madol; the primary lagoon channel in the Temwen area of Madolenihmw Municipality; a.k.a. Madolenihmw Harbor [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Kepidauen Kiepw: “passage of the lilies”; a small barrier reef passage north of Kolonia Town between Peinmen and Kepidauen Pweitik in Nett Municipality — also “Middle Pass” or “Easy Pass” by surfers [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Kepidauen Nahkapw: “passage of Nahkapw“; a passage from the open ocean into Pahn Nahkapw immediately east of Nan Madol in Madolenihmw Municipality and the site of the Nan Madol surf break [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Kepidauen Pweitik: a large barrier reef passage north of Kolonia Town and northwest of Sapwtik in Nett Municipality — also “Old Main Pass” or “Kolonia Pass” [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Kepihl: “making water”; a parcel of land on the western side of Lenger Island in Nett Municipality and the site of a Japanese road and coastal battery on Dolen Lenger; one of two spots on Lenger where freshwater can be collected [see Lenger Island Map Guide]

Kepin Awak Stream: see Pilen Kepin Awak

Kepindau: “bottom of the mangrove passage”; (1) a waterfall, a stream, and the area around them in Tamwarohi Kousapw at the northern end of Sokehs Island (the stream was formed when a giant eel wriggled up the hillside) [see Sokehs Island Map Guide] (2) the area at the mouth of Pilen Pahnahdo in Lukop district, central Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Kepindausiso: “bottom of the passage of the nobles”; the northern extreme of Pahn Nahkapw between Dekehtik Island and Peiniot Island in Madolenihmw Municipality [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Kepine Kousapw: a name borne by districts in Madolenihmw and Kitti (although in Kitti it is usually spelled Koapine) [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Kepinehd: a man-made islet on the southeast perimeter of Nan Madol where two women were said to have produced sails before being banished [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Kepinpehs: a valley south of Nan Kiepw in Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Kepira: a community in Nankepira district, Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Kerian: a man-made islet on the eastern perimeter of Nan Madol where the high priests were entombed [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Kiepw Passage: see Kepidauen Kiepw

Kiepw Stream: see Pilen Kiepw

Kipar Kousapw: “pandanus”; a district in southern Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Kiparaka: a reef off the southern coast of Parem Island, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Kiparalap: “laughing a lot”; a small island surrounded by mangroves in Sokehs, just north of the Kitti border [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Kitamw Kousapw: a district in central Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Kitamw Stream: see Pilen Kitamw

Kitti: one of Pohnpei Island’s five municipal districts, located on the south and west sides of the island; the fourth chiefdom to form on Pohnpei [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

“Knife Edge, The”: a section of the primary east-west mountain range between Pekenuht and Dolmweir where the ridge is less than a meter wide with steep slopes on both the Sokehs and Kitti sides [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Kohnderek: a man-made islet at the north end of Nan Madol where ceremonial dances were performed to bring joy to the family of a recently deceased resident [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

“Kolonia Pass”: see Kepidauen Pweitik

Kolonia Town: “the colony”; the only town on Pohnpei Island, located on a peninsula in the north, founded by the Spanish in the late 1800s and later the center of the German, Japanese, and American administrations [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

“Kolonia Pass”: see Kepidauen Kiepw

Kopwungapwung River: see Pilen Kopwungapwung

Kupwuriso: “stomach”; a 630 meter peak on the mountain ridge separating Nett from U; the fifth highest point on Pohnpei Island (depending on how you count) [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

“Labyrinth, The”: a group of hundreds of small mangrove islands at the mouth of the Nankewi River west of Sokehs Island [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Laiap: a small privately-owned reef island south of Enipein, Kitti, also known as “Rainbow Island” [see Islands]

Lehdau Kousapw: “pool channel”; a district in central Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Lehdau River: see Pillapen Lehdau

Lehiak Kousapw: “mangrove pool”; a district located on the south and southwest sides of Temwen Island in Madolenihmw Municipality [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Lehn Diadi: “pool of the floating place”; a wide section of a major Madolenihmw watercourse and popular swimming spot between the portion called Pilen Nan Kerepene and the part called Pillapen Sekereriau [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Lehnkei: “pool of coconut anointing oil”; a large reef pool in the middle of Dorong Islet at Nan Madol which was used to raise anadara clams for ceremonial purposes [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Lehnmesi: “pool of Mesihsou” — a reference to a story where a stream and waterfall in Mesihsou (specifically in the place called Ninleu) was transported to Kitti by magic; the second largest river system on Pohnpei which begins in the interior valley of Nanmeir, runs through Salapwuk, and enters the mangroves near Wenik district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Lehn Mwahmw: “fish pool”; a pool on the Lehnmesi River in Salapwuk district, Kitti, that it is believed Pohnpei’s early settlers stocked with fish upon arrival [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Lehnpaipohn: “pool on the earth oven stones”; a pool on the Lehnmesi River in Kitti — the largest body of freshwater on Pohnpei — and also the name of the waterfall emptying into it [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Lehnpoudek: “mooring pool”; a pool on the Lehnmesi River in Salapwuk district, Kitti, where it is said Pohnpei’s early settlers moored their canoes [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Lemenkau: a man-made islet on the southeast perimeter of Nan Madol that served as the center of traditional healing [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Lemensai: a man-made islet on the southeast perimeter of Nan Madol [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Lenger: a volcanic lagoon island in Nett Municipality that was heavily fortified by the Japanese Imperial Navy during World War II [see Lenger Island Map Guide and Islands]

Lenger Kousapw: a district that consists of the island of Lenger in Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Leprohi Kousapw: a district on the northeast coast of the Nett Point Peninsula in Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Letepwel: “knock on the ground”; a hillside in south-central Madolenihmw south of Nankep waterfall [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Lewi: a mostly flat area in central Nett Municipality south of Kolonia [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Lewi Stream: see Pilen Lewi

Liduduhniap: a two-tiered waterfall in Nanipil district, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

“Lighthouse” Surf Break: a reef-break near a small lighthouse north of Kolonia — see Kepidauen Kiepw [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Likinpeinmal: a place on the slope of the mountain in Tamworohi, Sokehs Island, where Ohlsipa and Ohlsopa built some sacred stone platforms [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Likinsed: “outside the sea”; a parcel of land on the northern side of Lenger Island in Nett Municipality and the site of a Japanese road leading up Dolen Lenger [see Lenger Island Map Guide]

Lipwentiak: “footsteps” — the very loose translation of this name references a story about women from Salapwuk killing women from Pehleng and treading on the dead; a two-tiered waterfall — the last of the falls on the Six Waterfalls hike — and a deep gorge on the Lehnmesi in Salapwuk district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Longamas: a reef between the Nett Point Peninsula and Parem Island, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Lou Rahn Ridge: see Uhlulen Lou Rahn

Luhke: a community on the U side of the border between Nett and U municipalities [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Luhke Stream: see Pilen Luhke

Lukop Kousapw: “in the middle”; a district in Madolenihmw east of Sapwalap [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Madolenihmw: “spaces separating the houses” — a reference to the state’s history of disunity; one of Pohnpei Island’s five municipal districts, located on the east and southeast sides of the island; the first chiefdom to develop on Pohnpei, established by Isokelekel [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Madolenihmw Bay: a large bay northwest of Temwen Island in Madolenihmw Municipality, where the rivers of Sapwalap empty [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide] and [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

“Madolenihmw Harbor”: an English nickname used throughout Pohnpei’s colonial history to refer to multiple locations; some consider it to be synonymous with Madolenihmw Bay, while others say it is the narrow area of deep water immediately east of Metipw. Historical records state that four Union whalers were sunk in 1865 in “Madolenihmw Harbor” by the CSS Shenandoah (a Confederate vessel). However, in 2000, underwater archaeologist Suzanne Finney found the wrecks of the four ships not in the the Madolenihmw Bay area, but at the mouth of Dauen Lohd and Dauen Wapar in southern Madolenihmw, a passage usually called Kepidauen Pohnahtik [see Southern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Madol Pah: lower Nan Madol, the southern half of the ancient city and the administrative and residential district [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Madol Powe: upper Nan Madol, the northern half of the ancient city and the religious center [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Maden Emp: “reef of the coconut crab”; a reef at the north end of Sokehs Island near Nan Imwinsapw, created when a coconut crab escaped from Sou Iap’s canoe [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Mad Pahra: a huge shallow reef at the entrance to Madolenihmw Bay that links Temwen, Nahkapw, Dekehtik, Na, and Nahpali islands [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

“Main Pass”: see Peinmen

Mall: “grassy clearing”; a small privately-owned island south of Temwen Island in Madolenihmw Municipality with a prehistoric stone tomb on its northwestern coast; the home of mythical figures, Semen Pwei Tikitik and Semen Pwei Lapalap [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Islands]

Mallen Dauen: “grassy clearing of the channel”; an upland fern meadow southwest of Nankep waterfall in central Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Mallen Karpwietik: a savannah or fern meadow in Pwudoi district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Mallen Loange Peidak: a savannah or fern meadow atop a hill in Pwudoi district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Mand: a small man-made islet not far from the southeast perimeter of Nan Madol [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

“Manta Road”: a narrow channel northeast of Mwahnd Peidak island in U Municipality famous for its resident manta rays [see U & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Marahu Kousapw: a district in western Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Meitik Kousapw: a district in central Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Merewi Kousapw: a district north of Dolen Merewi in Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Meitik Stream: see Pilen Meitik

MERIP: the Marine Environmental Research Institute of Pohnpei, operating out of the former PATS campus in Madolenihmw Municipality; MERIP rents kayaks and small apartments [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Mesenieng: “face of the wind”; the peninsula on which Kolonia Town is located [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Mesen Takai Stream: see Pilen Mesen Takai

Metipw Kousapw: a district in Madolenihmw north of Temwen [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

“Middle Pass”: see Kepidauen Kiepw

Mortlock Islands: a group of atolls in Chuuk State, west of Pohnpei

Mwahi Stream: see Pilen Mwahi

Mwalok: a Pingelapese community on the eastern coast of Sokehs Island [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Mwahnd Peidak: “upwind Mwahnd“; one of four large high islands in U Municipality [see U Municipality & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide and Islands]

Mwahnd Peidi: “downwind Mwahnd“; one of four large high islands in U Municipality [see U Municipality & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide and Islands]

Mweid: “entrance”; a man-made islet on the southwest perimeter of Nan Madol [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Mweidalap: “great entrance”; an opening on the southeast perimeter of Nan Madol between Pikalap and Lemensai islets [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Mweiden Kitti: “entrance of Kitti“; an opening on the southwest perimeter of Nan Madol, between Pohnkeimw and Pahnmweid islets, that people from Kitti used to reach the islets of Madol Pah — now blocked at one end by the accumulation of silt and the growth of mangrove trees [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Mweiden Nahnsapwe: “entrance of the thunder god”; an opening on the southeast perimeter of Nan Madol, between Kepinehd and Pikalap islets, that is associated with a story about the Thunder God [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Mweiden Weliwel: “entrance of the yellow-fin tuna”; an opening on the southeast perimeter of Nan Madol, between Pahnwi and Kepinehd islets, where tuna entered [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Mwoakilloa: an atoll 153 kilometers east of Pohnpei — also Mokil

Mwudokalap: a small island with prehistoric stone ruins located in between Temwen and Pohnpei in Madolenihmw Municipality; the place where Isokelekel first encountered his son Nahlepenien, who became the first Nahnken [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Mwudoketik: a small island with prehistoric stone ruins located in between Temwen and Pohnpei in Madolenihmw Municipality [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Mwudokolos: an island with an historic (and possibly prehistoric) significance off the coast of Metipw district, Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Na: a large island east of Temwen Island in Madolenihmw Municipality; the home of a renegade chief who became involved in a conflict with a group of whalers in the 1800s and later became the Nahnmwarki of Madolenihmw [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide, Islands, and Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Nahkapw: “new Na” — the name may suggest that Nahkapw is a man-made islet constructed in imitation of Na Island; a small island east of Nan Madol in Madolenihmw Municipality that some archaeologists believe is man-made and also allegedly the site of a mythical stone city pre-dating Nan Madol [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Nahlap: a large privately-owned reef island off Pohnpei’s southern coast, the site of a popular picnic and camping operation with nearby SCUBA diving and surfing [see Islands]

Nahnningi: a small privately-owned island south of Nan Madol that most archaeologists believe is man-made; also known as “Joy Island” [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Islands]

Nahpali: “half of Na” — the name is possibly a reference to Nahpali’s size in relation to Na Island; a long, narrow privately-owned island northeast of Temwen Island in Madolenihmw Municipality and the site of a number of Japanese-era historical sites; also the site of a battle between the crew of a whaling ship and Nahnawa, brother of the Nahnmwarki of Madolenihmw — also “Fantasy Island” [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Islands and Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Nahtik: a small island south of Enipein, Kitti [see Islands]

Na Malek: “his chicken”; a rock overhang and cave located high on a hillside at the south end of Nett; the mythical home of a demon (Taimuan) who tried to devour the Saudeleur‘s daughter [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Namweias: the largest of four pools on Peikapw Islet at Nan Madol and the place where sacrificial turtles were raised and high priests resided during special ceremonies; Isokelekel, the first Nahnmwarki, was said to have seen his reflection in this pool as an old man, leading him to commit suicide [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Namwenkau: “pool of black magic”; natural reef pool next to Lemenkau Islet at Nan Madol, where the recently healed bathed to wash away all traces of black magic [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Namwen Na Stingray Sanctuary: “reef pool of Na“; a marine protected area (MPA) between Nahpali and Na islands in Madolenihmw [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Namwen Nahnningi Stingray Sanctuary: “reef pool of Nahnningi“; a marine protected area (MPA) north of Nahnningi Island in Madolenihmw [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Nanamwise: “in the mosquitoes”; a plateau in Pehleng district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Nan Dapang: a community on the western side of the Nett Point Peninsula in Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Nan Douwas: “in the mouth (of the chief)”; a man-made islet at Nan Madol that served as the primary tomb for the Saudeleurs and later the Nahnmwarkis [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Naneir: “in the lands of the south”; a community on the northeastern coast of Sokehs Island [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Nan Imwinsapw: “in the end of the land”; (1) the site of the current Nahnmwarki’s residence on the northeastern coast of Temwen Island in Madolenihmw Municipality [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide] (2) a small park near the north tip of Sokehs Island in Sokehs Municipality (the full name of the location is Nan Imwinsapw en Epwel) [see Sokehs Island Map Guide] (3) a small reef off the coast of Peinpwe, central Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Nanipil Kousapw: “in the water”; a district at the rear of central Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Nanipil River: see Pillapen Nanipil

Nan Kehma Stream: see Pilen Nan Kehma

Nankeleu Stream: see Pilen Nankeleu

Nankep Stream: see Pilen Nankep

Nankep: “inlet”; a valley around the Nankep Stream and a waterfall in the valley [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Nankepiniak: “in the bottom of the mangroves”; a community on the northwest side of Temwen Island in Madolenihmw Municipality near the prehistoric ruins of Peipas Island [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Nankepinmerepw Stream: see Pilen Nankepinmerepw

Nankepinmerepw: “in the bottom of the Polynesian chestnut”; a river valley in the interior of Madolenihmw at the source of Pilen Nan Riohk [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Nankepira: a district in central Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Nankepira Kousapw: a district in central Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Nankepira Stream: see Pilen Nankepira

Nan Kerepene Stream: see Pilen Nan Kerepene

Nan Kiepw: “in the lilies”; a hillside in the far south of Nett Municipality near Dolmweir peak, where Sokehs rebels took refuge after their attack on German forces; the site of two waterfalls and a small rock overhang [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Nan Koropwung Stream: see Pilen Nan Koropwung

Nan Lapahu Stream: see Pilen Nan Lapahu

Nan Lewetik: a valley south of Dolekei district on the eastern side of Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Nan Madap Kousapw: a remote upland district in the disputed border are of Kitti and Sokehs municipalities [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Nan Madol: “in the spaces between”; an ancient megalithic city, comprising nearly 100 man-made islets on the tidal flats of Temwen Island in Madolenihmw Municipality, built by two mythical brothers [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Nanmand Kousapw: a district in southwestern Kitti north of Wenik district [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Nanmeir: a narrow interior valley system on the Kitti side of Nahnalaud and the source of the Lehnmesi River [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Nan Mwoluhsei: a special place at the outer seawall of Nan Madol east of Nan Douwas islet, said to be the entrance to Kahnimweiso and guarded by two sharks [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Nanpahlap: a district in Kitti and also the name of the peak of a 131 meter hill north of Madolenihmw Bay [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Nanpailong Stream: see Pilen Nanpailong

Nan Paremwed: a community in southwestern Kitti in Nanmand district near the UCCP Church [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Nanpeilam: “in the anadara shell”; a parcel of land at the southern end of Lenger Island in Nett Municipality [see Lenger Island Map Guide]

Nanpohnsapw Kousapw: “in the place on the land”; a district on a piece of land jutting west from the Nett Point Peninsula in Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Nanriohk: a plateau between Pilen Nan Riohk and Pillapen Senipehn in Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Nan Riohk Stream: see Pilen Nan Riohk

Nan Sekerendiadi: “in the landing of the floating place”; a community in Lehdau district, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Nanseping: a community on the west coast of the Dolopwail peninsula in Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Nan Soakoasok Kousapw: a district at the southeast corner of Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Nan Soakoasok Stream: see Pilen Nan Soakoasok

“Nanwap Corner”: a SCUBA diving site east of Madolenihmw Bay within the Nanwap Marine Protected Area [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Nanwap Marine Protected Area: a marine sanctuary encompassing the reef areas on the north side of Kepidauen Deleur in Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Nanwei Kousapw: (1) a district located on the east side of Temwen Island in Madolenihmw Municipality [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide] (2) a community in Oare district in southwestern Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Nanwou: “in the valley”; a parcel of land on the eastern side of Lenger Island in Nett Municipality and the site of a banyan tree that has grown around a Japanese machine (“Banyan Wheel”) [see Lenger Island Map Guide]

Narong (Site 31-17): a semi-circular stone terrace platform with a large shell midden, where a number of artifacts — including a breadfruit pounding stone, hammerstone, and coral rock grinding stone used to make breadfruit peelers from cowrie shells — were found, located in Poatopoat district, Kitti

Nett: one of Pohnpei Island’s five municipal districts, located on the north side of the island; the last and lowest ranking chiefdom to form on Pohnpei [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Nett Point: a long coral and dirt causeway extending from the northernmost end of the Nett Point Peninsula; the location where ships used to dock and now a clam hatchery station and a popular swimming spot — also Timwenpwel [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Ngatik: the largest and only inhabited island of Sapwuahfik Atoll, 178 kilometers southwest of Pohnpei

Niahlek (Site 34-29): “at the place of reeds”; a 5 x 6 meter prehistoric stone platform with a central pit in Seinwar district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Niheke: a community on the southeast side of the Nett Point Peninsula, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Nihkawad: an area on the Pohnpei Island side of the Temwen causeway in Madolenihmw Municipality [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Nihmwinsapw: “at the end of the land”; a parcel of land on the northwestern side of Lenger Island in Nett Municipality and the site of a Japanese road leading up Dolen Lenger [see Lenger Island Map Guide]

Nih Pwongin: an area south of Lehn Diadi in Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Nihmwed: a community near the mouth of Pillapen Sekereriau in Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Nihwel: “coconut forest”; a community on the north side of Temwen Island in Madolenihmw Municipality and the location of Temwen Elementary School [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Ni Imwinwer: a hill on Temwen Island’s Salong peninsula in Madolenihmw Municipality [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Nikoatopw Stream: see Pilen Nikoatopw

Nindeidei: “at the digging place”; a plateau east of the Lehnmesi River in southwestern Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Nindol: “at the hill”; (1) the central hill of Temwen Island in Madolenihmw Municipality (Dolopwuropwur is the peak of this hill) [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide] (2) the highest peak on Parem Island, Nett Municipality (97 m) [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Ninloang: “at the burial place”; a sacred rock in Pwudoi district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Nintu Stream: see Pilen Nintu

Ninsoksok: a community and district on the northwest coast of the Nett Point Peninsula in Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Ni Otoht: a ridge located north of Salapwuk district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Nipaip: “at the boulder”; a community in Kahmar district, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Nipangapang: “in the incline”; a hilly area west of Dauen Senipehn in Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Nipwelipwel: “at the dirty place”; a parcel of land on the northwestern side of Lenger Island in Nett Municipality and the site of a Japanese road leading up Dolen Lenger [see Lenger Island Map Guide]

Oare Kousapw: “to scoop up”; a small district in southwestern Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

“Old Main Pass”: see Kepidauen Pweitik

Olotong Stream: see Pilen Olotong

Pahlap: a community on the north side of Temwen Island in Madolenihmw Municipality [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Pahnahdo Stream: see Pilen Pahnahdo

Pahnaiau: “under the banyan”; a parcel of land on the southwestern side of Lenger Island in Nett Municipality and the site of four caves dug by the Japanese [see Lenger Island Map Guide]

Pahnairlap Waterfall: a plunge falls near the Lehnmesi River and the first falls on the Six Waterfalls hike in Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pahnasang: a community on the western side of the Nett Point Peninsula, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pahn Dieinuh: a place at the tip of the Dolopwail peninsula where a violent conflict erupted in 1836 between the crew of the American whaleship Falcon and the Nahnmwarki of Madolenihmw. [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pahn Douwas: “below the mouth (of the chief)”; a man-made islet south of Nan Douwas islet at Nan Madol, where guards and attendents slept [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Pahnisou: a small man-made islet on the northwest end of Nan Madol [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Pahn Kadira: a man-made islet in the center of Nan Madol Pah at Nan Madol where the Saudeleur and his attendants lived; also the site of the Temple of Nankieilmwahu [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Pahnkamal: “below Kamal“; a parcel of land at the southern end of Lenger Island in Nett Municipality and the site of a tunnel leading to a Japanese aviation fuel tank [see Lenger Island Map Guide]

Pahnkatau: “below the distant island”; a small man-made islet near the middle of the Nan Madol complex [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Pahn Kipar (Site 30-19): a 5 x 6 meter prehistoric stone terrace platform with an extended breadfruit storage pit in Wenik district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pahnlenger: “downwind Lenger“; a parcel of land on the western side of Lenger Island in Nett Municipality and the site of a tunnel and underground oil tank complex beneath Dolen Lenger [see Lenger Island Map Guide]

Pahnmadar: a slope or hillside east of Dolen Lepen in Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pahn Mwasangapw: a burial vault on the eastern perimeter of Nan Madol where low-ranking priests were buried [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Pahnmweid: “below the entrance”; a man-made islet on the southwest perimeter of Nan Madol [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Pahn Nahkapw: “below Nahkapw“; a deep trench between Nahkapw Island and Nan Madol in Madolenihmw Municipality, believed to be a collapsed section of the reef shelf and the resting place of Kahnimweiso, an ancient city that pre-dated Nan Madol; often referred to as the “honored channel” [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Pahnpar: “under the pandanus”; a hillside in Salapwuk district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pahn Paip: “beneath the boulder”; a 30 meter hill at the tip of Diadi district in central Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pahnsapw: “beneath the land”; a farmstead in Madolenihmw and the two waterfalls on the farmstead [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pahn Sile: possibly “under the axe” or “under guard”; an area along the Senipehn River of Madolenihmw and a waterfall within the area [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pahntakai: “below the rock”; a huge undercut cliff face with small caverns and a waterfall in U Municipality [see U Municipality & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pahntorong: a community in Kahmar district south of the Nett Municipal Office, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pahnwi: “beneath the sea poison tree”; two man-made islets at the southwest corner of Nan Madol; the westernmost is known for its massive boulder wall, a rock that pregnant women climbed, and six burial sites; the name comes from a tree that grew there (Barringtonia asiatica) [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Pahseid: a stone pen next to Usendau islet at Nan Madol where turtles were kept [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Paieke: a small family-run “marine park” in Awak Pah, U Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide and U Municipality & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Paies Kousapw: “living blessings”; a district on the border of Sokehs and Kitti that is now split into two [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pailong Stream: see Pilen Pailong

Paipalap: “the great boulder”; a massive basalt rock at the northern end of Sokehs Island, also known as Sokehs Rock [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Paison: “anchoring rock”; a community on the east coast of the Dolopwail peninsula in central Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pakin Atoll: an atoll 32 km west of Pohnpei that belongs to Sokehs Municipality and is inhabited by people of Mortlockese descent [see Islands]

Palakapw: a large man-made islet near the middle of Madol Pah at Nan Madol and the site of a ceremonial house foundation from the Nahnmwarki Period [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Paliais Kousapw: a district located on the southwest coast of the Nett Point Peninsula, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Paliapailong Kousapw: a small district in western Kitti between Marahu and Seinwar districts [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Parem: “nipa palm”; the third largest lagoon island in Pohnpei, located north of Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide] and [see Islands]

Paremkep Kousapw: “nipa palm inlet”; a district in eastern Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Parempei Kousapw: a district that consists of the island of Parem in Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

PATS: Pohnpei Agriculture & Trade School, a Jesuit high school in Madolenihmw Municipality that operated until 2005 [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Pehleng Kousapw: “basket full of food”; a district in northwestern Kitti that was once part of a larger autonomous region that temporarily held power before the unification if Kitti around 1800 — also Poahloang (Kitti spelling) [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Peiakahk: “demonstrate fighting”; a small island off the west coast of Sokehs Island near Roie, where Sou Iap fought with a local Sokehs man [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Peiai: “the runner-up pulls ahead” — a reference to the turning of the tide of battle at this spot during the war between the Saudeleur and Isokelekel’s warriors; a community on the east coast of Madolenihmw and the place where Isokelekel’s lieutenant rallied his troops by driving his spear through his foot and promising death to any warrior who tried to retreat from the Saudeleur’s army [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Peidie Kousapw: a district at the south end of Sokehs Island [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Peikapw: “new stone structure”; (1) a man-made islet in the middle of Madol Pah at Nan Madol with four pools, including Namweias and Peirot, and the center of a religious cult of rock and tree worship that persisted until the late 1800s [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol] (2) a 15 x 19 meter stone platform southwest of Sapwtakai ruins in Sapwtakai district, Kitti (Site 35-33)

Peikapw Sapwawas: a man-made islet in Madol Powe at Nan Madol and the place where news was broadcast to the rest of the city; an announcer would blow a triton trumpet and proclaim the news, which would be rebroadcast on Pwalahng and Usendau islets [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Peilam: a man-made islet at Nan Madol [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Peilapalap: “great stone structure”; the largest man-made islet in Nan Madol, later divided into two [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Peilong Kousapw: “drift inward”; a district at the northwest end of Sokehs Island [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Pein Ahi: “stone platform of fire”; a small family-run “marine park” in Awak Pah, U Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Peindolenmai (Site 32-8): a 3 x 4.5 meter prehistoric stone platform in Alauso, Kitti, with two breadfruit storage pits inside the enclosure [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Peinkareraua (Site 35-17): a stone platform with an enclosing wall 2 meters thick and two low platforms that together formed the residence of the ruler of Kepihleng and the center of state ceremonial events, located southwest of Sapwtakai ruins in Sapwtakai district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pein Kitel: “stone structure of the small freshwater fish”; a large stone structure on the coast of Temwen Island (part of Nan Madol) with burial vaults said to contain the bones of Nan Madol’s founders, Olsihpa and Olsohpa, and other Saudeleurs and Nahnmwarkis [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Peinering: “stone structure of the ripe coconut”; a man-made islet at Nan Madol where coconut oil was produced for ceremonial purposes [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Peinier: “stone structure of southern lands”; a small man-made islet near the southwest corner of Nan Madol [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Peinior: a small man-made islet in the middle of Madol Powe at Nan Madol where women came to learn a sitting dance [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Peiniot: a man-made islet north of the main complex of Nan Madol, where food was gathered and prepared before these operations were moved to Pohn Douwas [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Peinmen: the barrier reef passage north of Sokehs Island now used as the primary ship access to the commercial harbor — also “Main Pass” or “Sokehs Pass” [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Peinmwas (Site 30-20): the remains of a prehistoric stone platform, now mostly buried or scattered, in Wenik district, Kitti; the site is featured in the Utin Iap oral history [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Peinmwek: a man-made islet at Nan Madol [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Peinmweli: “stone structure of the rocky place”; a parcel of land on the western side of Lenger Island in Nett Municipality and the site of a Japanese bomb magazine on the slope of Dolen Lenger [see Lenger Island Map Guide]

Peinpwe: a community in Nankepira district, Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Peipas: a 91 meter by 21 meter man-made stone platform and tomb complex in the mangroves of Temwen’s western coast in in Madolenihmw Municipality (though Nan Madol and Peipas are not linked in the oral histories, some believe the island to be related to the greater ruins) [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Peirot: “stone structure of darkness”; a small pool on Peikapw islet at Nan Madol in which the Saudeleur was said to be able to see things happening in any part of the world [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Peitaup: a small man-made islet at Nan Madol near Peikapw islet [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Pekenuht: “defecating banana” — a reference to a story in which a bird ate some banana and then defecated at this spot; a 705 meter mountain peak east of Dien district, Kitti, on the Sokehs side of the border [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Penieu: a lagoon island south of Rohi, Kitti with a nearby Marine Protected Area (MPA) [see Islands]

Perektuhke: a small man-made islet near the middle of the Nan Madol complex [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Pihs Kousapw: a district in central Madolenihmw which got its name from the island of Piis in the Mortlock Islands, where many of its current residents originated [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pikalap: “big sandy beach”; a man-made islet on the southeast perimeter of Nan Madol [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Piketik: “small sandy beach”; a parcel of land on the northern side of Lenger Island in Nett Municipality and the site of a Japanese road leading up Dolen Lenger [see Lenger Island Map Guide]

Pikiniap: “sand of Yap”; a place in the mangroves at the north end of Sokehs Island where Sou Iap unloaded the sand he was using as ballast in his canoe [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Pilen Dauen Neu: “water of the frog fish channel”; a stream in western Nett Municipality that forms the eastern border of Kolonia Town [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pilen Dipwilap: “water of the great clan”; a tributary of the upper Pillapen Senipehn, where the final battle between Isokelekel’s forces and the Saudeleur’s army was fought (at Kamau Pwoungapwoung) [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pilen Iro: a stream with a waterfall on it in Salapwuk district, Kitti, and a Lehnmesi tributary [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Kawad: “water of Kawad“; a tributary of the Pillapen Nanipil flowing past Nankawad, the ancestral interior region of the Sounkawad clan [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pilen Kahmar: “water of Kahmar”; the name of the lower part of Nanipil River as it flows through Kahmar district, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pilen Kepin Awak: “water at the bottom of Awak”; a stream flowing through the middle of the Awak Valley in U Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pilen Kiepw: “water of the lilies”; the largest river in the north, located in Nett Municipality — also Pillapen Nanipil [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pilen Kitamw: “water of Kitamw“; a stream emptying into Dauen Sapwalap in Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pilen Koaroan (Site 35-19): three prehistoric stone structures in southwestern Kitti, including a double vault attached to a wall and stepped platform with a central pit [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Lewi: “water of Lewi“; a stream in western Nett Municipality that is fed by Pilen Nintu and empties into Dausokele [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pilen Luhke: “water of Luhke“; a stream that forms the border of Nett and U municipalities [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pilen Meitik: “water of Meitik“; a stream that is fed by Pilen Nan Soakoasok and Pillapen Kopwungapwung and empties into Dausokele in Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pilen Mesen Takai: a tributary of Pilen Kiepw in the Nan Kiepw area of Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pilen Mwahi: “water of color”; a stream in southwestern Kitti emptying into Dauen Kipar [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Nan Emp: “water in the vines”; a stream with a waterfall on it in Salapwuk district, Kitti, and a Lehnmesi tributary [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Nan Kehma: “water in the kehma (Terminalis) trees”; a tributary of Pilen Meitik in Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pilen Nankeleu: “water in the wild hibiscus”; a stream in Pehleng district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Nankep: “water of the inlet”; a stream in Nankepira district, Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pilen Nankepinmerepw: “water in the bottom of the Polynesian chestnut”; a stream in the interior of Madolenihmw that becomes Pilen Nan Riohk further downstream [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pilen Nankepira: a tributary of the upper Pillapen Senipehn [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pilen Nan Kerepene: “water flowing together”; a segment of a major Madolenihmw watercourse between the portion called Pilen Nan Riohk and the part called Lehn Diadi [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pilen Nan Koropwung: “water of Nan Koropwung“; a stream flowing down from the ridge near Kupwuriso peak and emptying into Pillapen Kopwungapwung in eastern Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pilen Nan Lapahu: a stream in Pwudoi district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Nanpailong: “water of Nanpailong“; a tributary of Pillapen Nanipil, which connects with Pilen Kawad in eastern Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pilen Nan Riohk: “water of Nan Riohk“; a segment of a major Madolenihmw watercourse between the portion called Pilen Nankepinmerepw and the part called Pilen Nan Kerepene [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pilen Nan Soakoasok: “water of Nan Soakoasok“; a stream that flows out of the Nan Soakoasok valley in Nett Municipality and empties into Pilen Meitik [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pilen Nikoatopw: “water in the wild mountain palms”; a stream with two waterfalls on it in Salapwuk district, Kitti, and a Lehnmesi tributary [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Nintu: “water of Nintu“; a tributary of Pilen Lewi in Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pilen Olotong: a stream with a waterfall on it in Salapwuk district, Kitti, and a Lehnmesi tributary [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Pahnahdo: “water of Pahnahdo“; a stream between Lukop and Metipw districts in Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pilen Pahnihwi: a stream in Pwok district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Pailong: a stream in Salapwuk district, Kitti, and a Lehnmesi tributary [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Pohn Kotaro: a stream in Pwoaipwoai district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Pwadapwad: “water of Pwadapwad“; (1) a stream emptying into Dauen Sapwalap in Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide (2) a stream in southwestern Kitti near Sapwtakai and Nanmand districts [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Pwarapwar: “river going through”; a stream in Seinwar district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Pwong: a stream in Nett Municipality that runs east of the Lou Rahn ridge, beginning near Dolen Nahnsapwe [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pilen Pwudoi: a stream in Pwudoi district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Sahwar: “water shining”; a stream in Salapwuk district, Kitti, fed by Pilen Sahwartik and Pilen Sahwarlap [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Sahwarlap: “water shining brightly”; a stream in Salapwuk district, Kitti, on which lies Sahwarlap waterfall [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Sahwartik: “water shining faintly”; a stream in Salapwuk district, Kitti, on which lies Sahwartik waterfall [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Sapwtakai: “water of rock land”; a stream in Pwok district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Seleur: a stream in Pwudoi district famous for two pools with large marbled eels sacred in Pohnpeian culture [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Sepeipei: “water of Sepeipei“; a stream that flows into Dausokele, between Paremkep and Dolekei districts in Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pilen Sihngar: a stream in Salapwuk district, Kitti, and a Lehnmesi tributary [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Uhpw: “water of the drinking coconut”; a stream in Salapwuk district, Kitti, and a Lehnmesi tributary [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Wenik: “water of Wenik“; a stream in southwestern Kitti passing under the road near Wenik Elementary School [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pilen Woun Eni: “water of the valley of ghosts”; a stream in Eirike district, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pillapen Kehnmantirik: a river in Dien district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pillapen Kitti: “big water of Kitti“; see Lehnmesi River [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pillapen Kopwungapwung: a river in eastern Nett Municipality that is fed by Pilen Pwong and Pilen Nan Koropwung and empties into Pilen Meitik [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pillapen Lehdau: “big water of the pool channel”; a major river in central Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pillapen Nanipil: “river of Nanipil“; the largest river in the north, located in central Nett Municipality — also Pilen Kiepw [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pillapen Pehleng: “big water of Pehleng“; a river in Pehleng district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pillapen Sekereriau: “big water of the two landings”; a segment of a major Madolenihmw watercourse east of the portion called Lehn Diadi — also Pilap en Sekereriau [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pillapen Senipehn: “big water of Senipehn“; a major river in Senipehn district, Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pillapen Seniahdak: a river north of Dien district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pingelap: an atoll 285 kilometers west of Pohnpei, famous for the high incidence of achromatopsia, a form of color blindness

Poasoile: an area on the coast of Temwen Island near the causeway in Madolenihmw Municipality and the site where Isokelekel was appointed the first Nahnmwarki [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Poatoik: a community near the elementary school on the east coast of Parem Island, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Poatopoat Kousapw: “everlasting”; a district in southwestern Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pohnallap: a flat area in Madolenihmw south of Pilen Nan Kerepene [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pohnauleng Kousapw: “on the grass”; a district in south-central Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pohn Dolen Nett: “on the hill of Nett”; the flat plateau on the top of the 227 meter mountain (Dolen Nett) that runs the length of the Nett Point Peninsula and is said to have been formed by the body of a giant eel [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pohndollap: “on the big hill”; (1) a long mountain range on Sokehs Island with a 276 meter summit, also known as “Sokehs Mountain” or “Sokehs Ridge” [see Sokehs Island Map Guide] (2) a hill in Pehleng district, Kitti — spelled Pohn Dollap [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pohn Douwas: “above the mouth (of the chief)”; a man-made islet nouth of Nan Douwas islet at Nan Madol, where guards and attendents slept, food was gathered, and jellyfish were baked in stone ovens [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Pohniak: “on the landward edge of the mangroves”; a community in Diadi district, central Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pohniso: “above the chief” — this place is above the residence of the Iso-Nahnken; a plateau in Elieliwi district, Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pohnkeimw: “above the corner”; (1) a community on the northeast side of Tewmen Island in Madolenihmw Municipality (2) a man-made islet on the southwest perimeter of Nan Madol [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Pohn Kohla (Site 27-3): a 13 x 15 meter rock platform and stone-paved terrace in Wenik district, Kitti, with two peitehl (sakau stones) and an uhmw (rock oven) site [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pohn Lahpar: an island surround by mangroves south of Tomwara district, Sokehs, but located on the Kitti side of the border [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pohnlehr: the peak area of Dolen Nett and the site of Japanese fortifications from World War II, including two 80 mm guns and a mobile radar array [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pohnmweirok: a line of rocks at the north end of Nan Madol, connecting Peiniot islet with Pohn Douwas islet [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Pohn Mwudok: a reef between the Nett Point Peninsula and Parem Island, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pohn Namwen Parem: “on the reef pool of Parem“; a reef off the southeastern coast of Parem Island, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pohn Ngihn Eni: “on the bones of the spirit”; a plateau in Paremkep district on the eastern side of Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pohnpaip: “on the boulder”; (1) a huge basalt outcrop in Sapwalap on which hundreds of petroglyphs have been inscribed [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Pohnpei Island Central School (PICS): the largest public high school on the island, located south of Kolonia in Nett. The name was briefly changed to Bailey Olter High School [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pohnpelik: a reef off the southwestern coast of Parem Island, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pohn Pillap: “over the river”; a waterfall, a stream, and the area around them in Ipwal district at the northern end of Sokehs Island (the stream was formed when a giant eel wriggled up the hillside) [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Pohnsekir: a 75 meter peak at the north end of Parem Island, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Pwadapwad Stream: see Pilen Pwadapwad

Pwalahng: a small man-made islet in Madol Powe at Nan Madol and one of three locations where triton trumpets and drums were sounded to transmit news [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Pwapwalik: the northern and northwestern section of Pohnpei during the Saudeleur Period, comprised of the semi-autonomous regions of Palikir, Sokehs (Island), Tipwendongalap, Kahmar, Nanmeir, and Pakin

Pwarapwar Stream: see Pilen Pwarapwar

Pwel Weita: “red dirt”; a place on the western coast of Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pwok Kousapw: “to pick up something”; a district in southern Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Pwong Stream: see Pilen Pwong

Pwudoi Kousapw: the name derives from a women in myth named Luwahpwudoi; a district in western Kitti with a community of the same name within it [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Rasalap: a huge savannah and fern meadow on a hill west of Salapwuk district, Kitti, and the site of a 10 x 14 meter prehistoric stone complex, consisting of boulders stacked to form two low platforms separated by a wall and enclosed in a meter high perimeter wall (Site 24-7) — also Rassalap [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Reitik: “short length”; a man-made islet on the northwest edge of Madol Pah at Nan Madol [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

“Rock of Mesihsou”: a large, basalt outcropping on the Neth family land in Ninleu, at a place where the main road turns sharply. It was once a waterfall, but the stream was stolen and moved to Kitti, being named the Lehnmesi — pool of Mesihsou. [see U & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Roie Kousapw: a district on the western coast of Sokehs Island, populated primarily by immigrants from the Mortlock Islands of Chuuk — also Deh [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Ros: a long, narrow reef island south of Kitti [see Islands]

Sahwar Gorge: a deep, narrow gorge created by the confluence of Pilen Sahwarlap and Pilen Sahwartik [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Sahwarlap Stream: see Pilen Sahwarlap

Sahwarlap: “shining brightly”; a large waterfall in Salapwuk district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Sahwartik Stream: see Pilen Sahwartik

Sahwartik: “shining faintly”; a tall, thin waterfall in Salapwuk district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Sakarakapw: a community on the coast of south-central Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Sakarkoatoan: a community in Dien district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Sakartik: a community in Dien district, western Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Salapwuk Kousapw: the name derives from the word kalapwuk, which means “alone”; a district in a mountainous part of southwestern Kitti that remained autonomous until the 1940s when it requested annexation from Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Salong: a community on the northwestern peninsula of Temwen Island and the site of the first protestant mission in Madolenihmw Municipality [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Salong Point: the rocky end of the Salong peninsula on Temwen Island in Madolenihmw Municipality [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Sapwalap: “large land”; a huge, mostly flat area in central Madolenihmw between the coast and the mountains [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Sapwehrek Kousapw: “land of plenty”; a district in central Madolenihmw on the west coast of Madolenihmw Bay [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Sapwohn Kousapw: a district on the southeastern coast of Sokehs island, populated primarily by immigrants from Pingelap Atoll [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Sapwtakai: “rock land” — a reference to the rock that was brought to this hill from Nan Madol; a prehistoric stone fortress of the same name that served as the capital of Kepihleng before the unification of Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Sapwtakai Kousapw: a district in southwestern Kitti and the site of a prehistoric stone fortress of the same name that served as the capital of Kepihleng before the unification of Kitti around 1800 [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Sapwtakai Stream: see Pilen Sapwtakai

Sapwtik: “little land”; a small volcanic lagoon island in Nett Municipality that was fortified by the Japanese Imperial Navy during WWII [see Lenger Island Map Guide and Islands]

Sapwtik Marine Protected Area: a marine reserve surrounding Sapwtik Island in Nett Municipality [see Lenger Island Map Guide]

Sapwutik: a tomb surrounded by a wall on the eastern perimeter of Nan Madol where priests were buried [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Sapwuahfik: an atoll 178 kilometers east of Pohnpei

SDA School: a private Pre-12 school run by the Seventh-Day Adventist Church and located in Dolonier district, Nett Municipality, south of Kolonia Town [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Seinwar Kousapw: “canoe voyage” — derived from the words sehin (voyage of) and wahr (canoe); a district in southwestern Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

“Seinwar Launch”: a series of dredged coral causeways behind Seinwar Elementary School in Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Sekeren Lapahu: “landing of Lapahu”; a coastal area in Pwudoi district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Sekere Riau: “two landings”; an area in the mangroves at the mouth of the greater Nan Riohk watercourse [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Sekere Riau River: see Pillapen Sekere Riau [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Seleur Stream: see Pilen Seleur

Sengnaip: a two-tiered falls in a hidden portion of the stream south of the Nanipil reservoir near the border of Nett and Sokehs municipalities [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Senipehn Kousapw: a district in the interior regions of Madolenihmw [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Senipehn River: see Pillap en Senipehn [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Seniahdak River: see Pillapen Seniahdak

Sepeipei: a hillside south of Dolekei district on the eastern side of Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Sepeipei Stream: see Pilen Sepeipei

Sewihso Kousapw: a small district in southwestern Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Sihngar Stream: see Pilen Sihngar

“Six Waterfalls”: a popular hike along a section of the Lehnmesi River with six dramatic waterfalls in less than a mile [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Snowland: a Japanese-owned and operated guesthouse complex and SCUBA diving operation in Paies district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Soaid (Site 34-32): a prehistoric stone burial platform in Seinwar district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Soh Nting: “no tattoo”; a community on the northwestern coast of the Nett Point Peninsula that figures into the story of Kirehseleng [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Sokehs Bay: a large bay west of Sokehs Island — also “Sokehs Harbor” [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Sokehs Island: the largest lagoon island in Pohnpei State and the site of Paipalap (Sokehs Rock) and Pohndollap (Sokehs Mountain) [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Sokehs: one of Pohnpei Island’s five municipal districts, located on the northwest side of the island; the third chiefdom to form on Pohnpei

Sokehs Mountain: see Pohndollap

Sokehs Pah: “lower / western Sokehs”; the portion of Sokehs Island west of the mountain, populated primarily by immigrants from the Mortlock Islands of Chuuk State [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

“Sokehs Pass”: see Peinmen

Sokehs Powe: “upper / eastern Sokehs”; the portion of Sokehs Island east of the mountain, propulated primarily by immigrants from Pingelap and Mwoakilloa atolls [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Sokehs Ridge: the flat top of the Sokehs Mountain range, which runs north and south along the length of Sokehs Island (see Pohndollap) [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Sokehs Rock: see Paipalap

Sokosoken Leng: “landing of heaven”; a sacred place in Salapwuk, Kitti, with a large stone commemorating the place where Pohnpei’s mythical founder, Sapwkini, first landed [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Soledi Kousapw: “to protect” (from silehdi); a district on the southern coast of Sokehs Island [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Sounahntel: a reef off the southeastern coast of Parem Island, Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Soupaip: an archaic name for Sokehs Rock, the area around the Rock, and perhaps Sokehs Island in its entirety (debated) [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

“Spire, The”: an English nickname for Dolen Ngehn, a basalt pinnacle immediately south of Paipalap on Sokehs Island and the site of four bolted sport climbing routes [see Sokehs Island Map Guide and Rock Climbing]

State Hospital: Pohnpei’s public medical facility, located just east of Kolonia in Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

“Swimming Pond”: a large, placid pool on the Nanipil River in Nett Municipality that is popular with swimmers [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Tahio: an area below the south slope of Nanpahlap peak in Madolenihmw, where the Japanese were active prior to World War II [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Takain Mwas: “rock of the worm”; a long, narrow ridge separating Awak Pah and Awak Powe in U Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide and U Municipality & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Takain Pwohng: “stone of night”; a trio of rocks near the Lehnmesi River in Salapwuk district, Kitti, where one of Salapwuk’s ancient priests was said to have resided, conducting human sacrifices and practicing ritual cannibalism [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Takain Rihpkapehd: “rock of the tightening stomach”; (1) a rock at Pahnwi islet in Nan Madol that pregnant women climbed in the belief that their children would be bestowed with good health, strength, and bravery [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol] (2) a 200 meter rock peak on Sokehs Island also climbed by pregnant women [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

Takaieu: “one rock”; one of four large lagoon islands in U Municipality; connected to Dehpehk Island by a footbridge [see U Municipality & Northern Madolenihmw Map Guide and Islands]

Takaiuh: a picturesque conical mountain peak at the north end of Madolenihmw Bay–actually an island surrounded by mangroves — that was said to be the top of a larger mountain broken into pieces by a demi-god. [see Central Madolenihmw Map Guide]

Temple of Nankieilmwahu: a structure on Pahn Kadira islet at Nan Madol dedicated to the traditional thunder god, Nahnsapwe [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Temwen Kousapw: a district located on the northwest and north side of Temwen Island in Madolenihmw Municipality [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Timwenpwel: “dirty nose”; the causeway at the northern point of the Nett Peninsula, usually known as Nett Point [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Tipwendongalapw: a ridge north east of Nankawad in Nett Municipality, not to be confused to the ancient region of Nett where Olsihpa and Olsohpa attempted to build [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Tomwara Kousapw: “peace offering”; a name borne by districts in southern Sokehs and southwestern Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

U: the smallest of Pohnpei Island’s five municipal districts, located on the northeast side of the island; the second chiefdom to form on Pohnpei

Ulidei: a small island in between Temwen and Pohnpei in Madolenihmw Municipality [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide]

Uluhlen Dakehlap: a ridge south of Liduduhniap waterfall in Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Uluhlen Doaroapap: a ridge between Nanmand and Wenik districts in Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Uluhlen Lou Rahn: a 300 meter ridge running north-south at the southeast side of Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Uhluhlen Pahnpar: a ridge in Pwoaipwoai district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Usendau: a large man-made islet west of Dau islet at Nan Madol and one of three locations where triton trumpets and drums were sounded to transmit news [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Usennamw: a man-made islet near the middle of the Nan Madol complex where food was prepared [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Utin Woau (Site 34-30): a stone platform in Seinwar district, Kitti, with an attached terrace, two upright basalt prisms 30 cm tall on the northern platform wall, a magic boulder, and a shell midden [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Wahrapwoat: “one canoe”; a large, shallow reef connecting Sapwtik and Lenger islands in Nett Municipality [see Lenger Island Map Guide]

Wasao: “that place”; a man-made islet on the northwest edge of Madol Pah at Nan Madol, where those who displeased the Saudeleur were executed after being tortured at Pahn Kadira [see Temwen Vicinity Map Guide and Nan Madol]

Weipowe Kousapw: a district located on the east coast of the Nett Point Peninsula in Nett Municipality [see Greater Nett & Western U Map Guide]

Wenik (Site 30-17): a prehistoric stone ruin in Wenik district, Kitti [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Wenik Kousapw: a district in southwestern Madolenihmw [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Woun Eni Stream: see Pilen Woun Eni

Woun Pehleng: “valley of Pehleng“; a small valley in Pehleng district, Kitti, through which Pillapen Pehleng flows [see Western Kitti Map Guide]

Yacht Anchorage: a protected cove between Sokehs Island and Kolonia where visiting yachts anchor [see Sokehs Island Map Guide]

By pni-surfclubPosted on May 13, 2014September 5, 2019Posted in culture

Electricity

Voltage & Plug Type

The FSM uses a 110-volt power system and dual flat pin outlets (grounded or ungrounded) like the United States and Japan. No transformers or plug adapters are available on the island, so visitors coming from anywhere other than the U.S. and Japan are advised to bring their own.

Power Service

Pohnpei’s electricity comes from the Pohnpei Utility Company (PUC), a strange public-private entity that has proven itself to be wholly inept at providing reliable power to the island’s residents. Though there has been talk of research into alternative sources of power, currently 100% of the electricity produced by PUC comes from diesel-burning generators, which regularly break down.

Cash Power

All electricity on the island is provided on a pre-paid basis through something called Cash Power. Residents and business owners purchase units of power from PUC, which then credits their meters. If you end up staying in a house, rather than a hotel room, you’ll have to buy your own cash power. Cash power can be purchased at the PUC cash power drive-thru located across from the road from Lit Palm (bring your meter number or know the name under which the meter is registered). Cash power can also be purchased online through PUC’s website (click here to go straight to the online payment page). You can also buy cash power cards in $5 denominations at most stores around Kolonia. PRD Drive-Thru on Main Street is a good place to go for late-night purchases.

The Basics >> Electricity

By pni-surfclubPosted on May 10, 2014March 27, 2021Posted in basicsTagged black-outs, brown-outs, cash power, electricity, fsm, island, micronesia, oceania, outlets, pacific, plugs, pohnpei, ponape, power

Getting Around

Rental Car Companies

Some of the hotels on Pohnpei have small car rental services for guests (7 Stars Inn, Ocean View Plaza Hotel (West Wing), Island Palms Hotel, Seabreeze, Yvonne’s Hotel). The important word here is small. Expect a very limited selection of vehicles with moderate up-keep. There is also a growing number of companies that specialize in car rental. For rental rates use contact info listed under each rental company.

G & J Car Rental

G & J offers SUVs, flatbeds (regular size), and flatbed mini-trucks.

320.7748
9AM-5PM (Mon-Sat)
go4gandj@gmail.com
G&J on Facebook

H & E Car Rental

H & E offers pick-ups and flatbeds (regular size).

+691.320.2413
8AM-5PM (Mon-Sat)

Kaselehlie Car Rental

Kaselehlie offers Sedans, SUVs, pick-up trucks , vans, flatbeds (regular size).

+691.320.4555
9AM-3PM(Mon-Sat)
philliplindawp@gmail.com

Paradise Car Rental

Paradise offers SUVs for rent. They are open 24/7.

+691.320.7978 / 7049
Open 24/7
Rumorsinc@mail.fm

Sunset View Car Rental

Sunset View Car Rental offers Sedans, SUVs, and Flatbeds for rent. They even have a website where you can make a reservation.

+691.320.4908 / 7054
8AM-5PM (Mon- Fri) / 9AM-3PM (Sat)
sunsetviewcarrental@gmail.com
Visit Sunset View Car Rental’s Website
Sunset View Car Rental on Facebook

Rules of the Road

The rules are not all that different from any developed country. The reality is another matter; enforcement is minimal. There is no driver education, and many people begin operating vehicles without having taken tests of any kind. The concept of right-of-way is poorly understood, and passing frequently occurs where it is unsafe. Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or sakau (kava) is rampant, especially at night on the weekends. Though speed limits are usually not more than 24 kph (15 mph) around most of the island, a lot of people drive twice or three times that fast (especially taxis) and zip around the blind turns without care. Most of the Circle Island Road is paved now, but that doesn’t mean it’s in good condition everywhere; potholes are a fact of life and rain is ever-present. Additionally, while people drive on the right side of the road in the FSM, the majority of the cars on Pohnpei are second-hand imports from Japan with steering wheels on the left. Drivers in these vehicles have limited visibility, increasing the odds of accidents.

All this is simply to say that one must drive defensively and make no assumptions about what other drivers will or will not do. Drive slow and be aware at all times for children or animals running into the road.

Taxi Service

Taxi services on Pohnpei are as numerous as raindrops. New ones are constantly appearing while others vanish. All companies operate on a flat-fare basis and only accept cash. Because local taxis don’t use meters, and the fare isn’t directly proportional to the distance, Pohnpei’s taxi drivers have to hustle to make any money by the end of the day. They tend to drive very fast and very recklessly, and you can expect them to stop many times before they get to your destination in an effort to cram as many additional passengers as possible into their vehicle. Some of the drivers are super sweet. Others are, without a doubt, deranged. Also, don’t be surprised if your driver isn’t wearing a shirt or if he periodically opens the door, while speeding along, to spit his betel nut juice on the roadway. Seriously.

Taxis can be requested by phone or waved down on the road. If doing the former, we recommend that you have someone at your hotel do the calling. The taxi company dispatchers are often difficult for foreigners to communicate with and are more likely to get the correct information (and send a taxi faster) if a local person speaks with them. Also good idea would be to ask a local person how much the fare should roughly be so that the taxi driver does not try to hustle extra money from you.

Taxis can take you anywhere, but they’re definitely not tour guides.

Bicycling Around

If you can get your hands on a good mountain bike, exploring on two wheels is not a bad option. There are, however, a number of things to consider. For details, visit our page on Biking.

Walking

Outside of town, it’s normal to see local people walking along the road from place to place, but they don’t do it because they want to, and most Pohnpeians are baffled when they encounter a foreigner who chooses to walk when other options are available. Never the less, the island is not a bad place for pedestrians. You just have to be doubly conscious of traffic on the roads, accept that the Western concept of “right-of-way” means next to nothing to most people, be wary of dogs, and always be prepared for torrential rains. Kolonia has sidewalks along most of its major streets, but they are in bad condition and are often very slippery. Watch for holes and loose concrete slabs unless you want to end up hurting yourself or falling in a stream of sewer water.

Hiring Boats

The easiest way to hire a boat for a group is to approach an operator like Pohnpei Surf Club. Tour operators usually have boats going out with groups, for more affordable rates it’s better to book in groups and split the cost rather than booking trips by yourself.

The Basics >> Getting Around

By pni-surfclubPosted on May 9, 2014April 10, 2021Posted in basicsTagged biking, boat charters, boats, fsm, island, kolonia ice dock, micronesia, oceania, pacific, pohnpei, ponape, rental cars, taxi service, taxis, walking

Money Matters

Currency

The FSM uses the U.S. dollar ($US) exclusively, and the two local banks on the island — Bank of Guam and Bank of FSM — do not handle foreign currency at all. Thus, any currency brought to Pohnpei that is not U.S. dollars will be useless for the duration of the trip.

Traveler’s Checks: Don’t Bother

Traveler’s checks, though perhaps useful for throwing at people in the process of trying to rob you (we can’t say we’ve personally experienced this), are mostly useless pieces of paper on Pohnpei. Virtually no one, including the banks, will cash them.

Credit & Debit Cards

Theoretically, if your debit card carries the VISA logo, it should work in all four ATMs on Pohnpei (two at the Bank of Guam branch in Nett, one inside FSM Telecom, and one at the Bank of FSM branch across from Palm Terrace Store. However, things don’t always go smoothly. Make sure you notify your bank prior to leaving on your trip and let them know where you will be using the card to prevent holds. ATMs occasionally go down, too, though not usually all of them at the same time. It’s best to have a little extra cash on hand at all times in case something unforeseen occurs.

Major credit cards (VISA / Mastercard) are accepted at the large stores. Smaller businesses take cash only. Expecting private vendors to have something like Square to swipe your card? Forget about it. Pohnpei is light-years behind when it comes to technology and — we’re going to say this over and over — that’s part of its charm . . . at least for visitors.

By pni-surfclubPosted on May 8, 2014April 9, 2021Posted in basics, moneyTagged atms, bank of fsm, bank of guam, banks, checks, credit cards, currency, debit cards, fsm, island, mastercard, micronesia, money, oceania, pacific, pohnpei, ponape, us dollars, visa

Drinking Water

On Tap

The Pohnpei Utility Company (PUC) provides the tap water in town, which comes from the Nanipil River dam at the foot of the mountains south of Kolonia. The tap water is filtered and chlorinated, supposedly rendering it safe to drink, but it often turns muddy after heavy rains when sediment washes into the rivers upstream. Travelers would be wise to stick to purified water. Luckily, Pohnpei has multiple great companies that provide just that at very affordable prices.

Pohnpei Water Company

Pohnpei Water Company (PWC) is located just beyond Panuelo’s Service Station and produces purified drinking water using an industrial filtering system. They sell 5-gallon jugs; washing and refill costs are very reasonable. They’ll deliver for a small fee.

8AM-5:30PM (Mon-Sat)
+691.320.2601

Drops of Life

Drops of Life is another water supplier based at the PAMI Building below the Japanese Embassy. Like PWC, they use an industrial purifier and sell water in 5-gallon jugs, they also deliver for a small fee.

8AM-7PM (Mon-Sat); 1-6PM (Sun)
+691.320.8719

Rain Water

A water company located at Hideout on the southwestern end of the Dolonier loop, across from the Pics Track and Field. They too use an industrial purifier and produce bottles of water by the cases. Cases come in two types: 500 ml bottles and 1L bottles. They also do refills for 5 gallon water jugs or any other water containers.

8AM-5PM (Mon-Sat)
+691.320.2186 / +691.920.7412 (Mobile number only for orders outside of business hours.)

Island Spring Water Company

Island Spring Water Company is a subsidiary of the INS conglomerate run by the Nakasone family. It is located along Nantuelek Road, across the street from the Mid-Town Tire Shop and behind Nihco Store (Mabushi). Like the other water companies they sell 5 gallon jugs which can be refilled and do deliveries. They also sell bottled water in 500ml and 1 L packs. You can find their bottles in many small stores.

7AM-9PM(Mon-Sun)
+691.320.8023
Island Spring on Facebook

The Basics >> Guides & Water

By pni-surfclubPosted on May 7, 2014March 28, 2021Posted in basics, waterTagged bottled water, drinking water, fsm, island, micronesia, oceania, pacific, pohnpei, ponape, purified water

An Introduction to Pohnpei

Pohnpei, the Ultimate Adventurer’s Paradise

Imagine an island that still retains its wildness — a place of rugged, breathtaking beauty, vibrant traditional culture, unpaved remoteness, and mystery. Imagine a landscape so green that it threatens to burn a hole in your retina. Picture being the only snorkeler on a pristine reef, surfing one of the world’s most celebrated waves, diving in a place most divers have never dreamed of, climbing misting mountain peaks, exploring a prehistoric megalithic city, or trekking through lush rainforests. This, in a nutshell, is Pohnpei.

But, Where the Heck is It?

The short answer? 4,828 kilometers (3,000 miles) southwest of Hawaii and 3,700 kilometers (2,300 miles) northeast of Australia. Pohnpei is the largest and highest island in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), a far-flung oceanic nation with some 600 islands spread across a vast section of the western Pacific between Hawaii and the U.S. Territory of Guam. The FSM is one of the most culturally diverse areas in the Pacific with more than twenty distinct groups and as many unique languages. The country is divided into four states (from east to west) — Kosrae, Pohnpei, Chuuk, and Yap. The capital of the FSM is located at Palikir on the west side of Pohnpei Island. In addition to the main island, Pohnpei State also includes four inhabited Micronesian atolls, two distant Polynesian outliers, two uninhabited atolls, and a submerged atoll.

They Don’t Call It the Garden Isle for Nothing

Roughly 22.5 kilometers (14 miles) in diameter, Pohnpei Island is the peak of a 5 million-year-old extinct shield volcano that has subsided over its lifetime. Some say it bears a resemblance to Bora Bora minus the unchecked development. Others liken it to something out of a Robert Louis Stevenson novel. Both would be correct. The place is rugged and brilliant green with a dense rainforested interior and mountains as high as 780 meters (2,600 feet). With 825 centimeters (325 inches) of rain a year in the interior, Pohnpei ranks as the seventh rainiest location on Earth. All that water adds up to more than 40 watercourses, scores of scenic waterfalls, and some of the largest areas of intact upland rainforest in the Pacific.

Pohnpei offers divers and snorkelers a mostly unexplored marine wonderland

A Marine Wonderland

Pohnpei’s coasts are entirely encircled by shadowy mangrove forests that are more than 3 kilometers (2 miles) wide in places and provide a maze of narrow, tunnel-like channels for kayaking, canoeing, or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) enthusiasts. This environment is a serene domain of birds and other creatures. A half to one and a half kilometers further out, a barrier reef curves around 70% of the island, forming a large, placid lagoon with passages going out into the open ocean — prime spots for surfing, snorkeling, and SCUBA diving. Small volcanic islands are scattered about within the lagoon and coralline islands with sandy beaches perch along the reef itself, calling to campers and beach-bums.

In short, there’s a little bit here for everyone . . .

By pni-surfclubPosted on May 1, 2014March 28, 2021Posted in basicsTagged barrier reef, fsm, interior, introduction, island, lagoon, mangrove forest, mangrove forests, micronesia, mountains, oceania, pacific, pohnpei, ponape, rainforest