Boven Digoel

Boven Digoel is a regency in South Papua situated along the Digul River, marked by extensive tropical forests and scattered small settlements. The territory spans a large area where dense vegetation dominates most of the landscape.

The area developed as an administrative region during Dutch colonial rule, when an internment camp was established in Tanah Merah in 1928. This facility held Indonesian nationalist leaders and political prisoners until 1942, marking a significant period of colonial control.

The regency motto 'Nup Bagen Ngup Bagenep' reflects local values, translating to 'I Am Because You Are' in the indigenous language.

The regency is accessible via Tanah Merah Airport, which connects through flights from major cities to Jayapura before a local connection. Limited infrastructure means visitors should plan ahead and prepare for basic travel conditions.

The region maintains exceptionally sparse population patterns, preserving large tracts of untouched natural landscape. This lightly settled territory offers visitors a rare glimpse into a largely undeveloped environment.

Location: South Papua

Inception: December 11, 2002

Capital city: Tanah Merah

Elevation above the sea: 55 m

Shares border with: Pegunungan Bintang, Yahukimo, Asmat, Mappi, Merauke

Website: http://bovendigoelkab.go.id

GPS coordinates: -6.00000,140.00000

Latest update: December 22, 2025 13:02