Destinations / Katherine / Katherine - the township
Springvale Homestead
Built in 1879, Springvale Homestead is the remnants of one of the Northern Territory's first cattle stations, established not long after the completion of the Adelaide to Darwin Telegraph Line. The Homestead is open to the public every day.
Umbrawarra Gorge Nature Reserve
Umbrawarra Gorge is a natural wonderland of towering red cliffs and waterholes, 115 kilometres north of Katherine. The Gorge is reached by following the turn-off sign from the Explorer’s Way. An easy one-kilometre walk takes in the Gorge's Aboriginal rock art sites and native wildlife. Two-wheel-drive access is available in the dry season and camping sites are located nearby.
Pine Creek National Trust Museum
Originally erected at Burrundie Mine in 1888, this museum was moved to Pine Creek in 1913. Throughout its history, the museum has been used as a doctor's residence, clinic and dispensary, military hospital, post office and telephone exchange.
Cutta Cutta Caves
These publicly accessible tropical limestone caves are located just 30 kilometres south of Katherine. Formed millions of years ago and still growing today, these caves are home to a variety of native and rare wildlife.
Jurassic Cycad Gardens
Nestled among a visually striking and prehistoric rocky landscape with over 200 different species of cycads, cacti and succulents, this impressive flora display can be experienced along 1.4 kilometres of walking paths with interpretive signage.
Pine Creek Goldrush & Didjeridu Festival
The Pine Creek Goldrush & Didjeridu Festival is an annual weekend event held just north of Katherine. Try panning for gold, dance under the stars to live music and watch performances from some of the finest Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal didjeridu players in the world.
Katherine is the third-largest town in the Northern Territory, located three hours’ drive south of Darwin on the banks of the Katherine River.
A Katherine holiday combines some of the Territory’s best nature and culture experiences with pioneering history and heritage.
Explorer John McDouall Stuart visited the region in 1862 and named Katherine after the daughter of one of his expedition sponsors. Once established, the town became a popular base for pioneers whose legacy continues to live on at the many historic sites.
Katherine is the perfect base for exploring the Gulf region, the southern part of Kakadu National Park and the Victoria River region – places where you can immerse yourself in nature.
Nitmiluk National Park is one of the most spectacular features of the Katherine area and includes the Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk) less than 30 minutes’ drive from town.
The Katherine River is perfect for adventure activities like day or overnight canoeing trips. There are many popular picnic and swimming spots along the river including the picturesque Katherine Hot Springs.
Explore Katherine & surrounds
