Excursion Ancient tonga cultural discovery tour at Nuku Alofa

The Island of Tongatapu has a rich and interesting history. Take a step back in time and visit some fascinating sites and ancient monuments at the eastern part of the island.

After a tradional welcome at the Ancient Tonga Cultural centre, you'll be treated to a 'kava' ceremony and a performance of local songs and dances. Discover the secrets' of Tongan baking, live demonstration of tapa making, weaving, wood carving and see a array of local craft items.

Board your bus and proceed to Captain Cook's Landing Place, In 1777 Cook landed on Tongatapu near Mu'a village, stands the Ovava (banyan) tree- an offspring of the original tree under which the famous navigator is alleged to have rested after anchoring the Endeavour offshore in the lagoon. Prior to your visit to the Captain Cooks Landing place.

Located about 10km from the Ha'amonga towards Nuku'alofa, are the Terraced Tombs or "Langi". Langis are platforms of earth with a stepped pyramid effect supported by carefully placed retaining walls. Unlike other burial sites in the Pacific the tombs and the rituals surrounding royal burials are still living part of Tongan culture.

One of the ancient Polynesia's most intriguing monuments is the Ha'amonga Hinge Stone. Built around 1200AD, the giant stone arch is 15 feet high and weighs around 80 tons. The gate is considered to have astronomical significance or to be a seasonal calendar for planting.

On your way back to your ship, you will take a short photo stop at the Late King of Tonga's white - painted Royal Palace. Later you will pass by the Royal Tombs, the resting place of royalty whose ancestry dates back to the 18th century and the Late King of Tonga, His majesty King George V.