ett has a several large rivers that are only a couple miles from Kolonia. All have popular spots for swimming and bathing. Kahmar River, which branches off the larger Nanpil source, is the first river reached when heading east out of Kolonia. It has several swimming holes that are favorites among picnickers (primarily students). Beyond the old quarry, the river turns and begins to skirt the road.  Two large, calm pools can be found just to the left of the road.  The remains of an old cable footbridge hangs over the river, and you can sometimes see kids jumping off the structure. The side of the river opposite the road has a grassy, pebbly area that is nice for taking in the scenery. The river itself is cool, but not too cold (except after big storms) and is usually fairly clear. Freshwater eels live in most of Pohnpei's rivers, but they don't seem to bother anyone. Further east, beyond the first river road, the same river meanders and ends up passing under a second road. The placid pools on either side of the bridge are the best swimming holes. This area seems to be a little less crowded and very peaceful. People who live nearby, often come down to wash clothes down in the lower bend of the river while their children play.

HOME | VENTURING OUT --- Kepirohi | Lehnpaipohn | Liduduhniap (Twin Falls) | Pahnsile | Pahntakai (Cave Falls) | Sahwartik & Sahwarlap | Nankewi | The Rivers of Nett

SWIMMING ATTIRE

The subject of swimming prompts some suggestions about clothing. Despite what it might seem from looking at the younger generation, Pohnpei has very conservative dress standards. Any skin from the knee up is typically kept covered, even when swimming. Pohnpeian girls wear shorts or a dress with a t-shirt when swimming. Guys usually wear long shorts. Typical Western swimwear, such as bikinis and speedos, are not considered appropriate.

Upper Nanpil River Valley

Sometimes a person can get permission from the family at Liduduhniap Waterfall to go into the upper regions of Nanpil. Technically, this area is off-limits, because it is the main source of water for Kolonia. However, if you promise not to swim in the water, they might allow you to hike along the riverbank and see one of the most lush and beautiful areas on the island. The hike up the river snakes along dripping jungle paths and around several large basalt pools before it comes to an end at a waterfall. There, the river's course compresses into a narrow gorge with high rock walls extending upward. A small pool is fed by a misty double falls. The basalt is so dark in color, that the pool looks black and ominous.

• Text by Alex Zuccarelli 2003.
• Image/Photo Credits: Kahmar bridge photo courtesy of Lisa Flores ©1999.  Gallery; 6 courtesy of Dana Lee Ling ©D. Ling. All other photos, images and maps property of Alex Zuccarelli.

 Primary Sources

• Ashby, Gene
  1993. Pohnpei: Island Argosy. Rainy Day Press: Eugene.
• Levy, Neil M.
  1996. Micronesia Handbook. Moon Publications, Inc.: Chico.
• Merlin, M., D. Jano, W. Raynor, T. Keene, J. Juvik & B. Sebastian
  1992. Tuhke en Pohnpei (Plants of Pohnpei). Department of Education, Pohnpei State, Office of Historic Preservation, FSM & Environment and Policy Institute, East-West Center, University of Hawaii.
• Ward, Martha C.
  1989. Nest in the Wind: Adventures in Anthropology on a Tropical Island. Waveland Press, Inc., Prospect Heights.

 On-Line Resources

• Trust Territory of the Pacific Photo Archives
• Stenbakken Photography - Professional shots of the island by Eric Stenbakken
• A Tour of Pohnpei - Mark Haun
• A Touch of Pohnpei - Kellsie Kriegelstein