Tonga is a Polynesian archipelago nation in the South Pacific Ocean, made up of more than 170 islands spread across a vast stretch of ocean. It is known for being the only Pacific island nation never to have been formally colonized by a foreign power. Tonga is also famous for its humpback whale population, which gathers in its warm waters each year to breed.
- Capital
- Nuku'alofa
- Continent
- Oceania
- Region
- Polynesia
- Area
- 747 km²
- Coordinates
- 20° S, 175° W
- Languages
- English, Tongan
- Currency
- TOP T$
- Domain
- .to
- Calling code
- +676
On the world map
Bordering countries
No land borders — this is an island nation.
Country facts
- Tonga is the only remaining monarchy in the Pacific, with a royal family that has ruled for centuries.
- The Tongan language belongs to the Polynesian branch of the Austronesian language family and is spoken by nearly all citizens.
- Tonga lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire and has active submarine volcanoes, including one that created a new island in 2015.
- Rugby union is the national sport and a deeply important part of Tongan cultural identity.
- Tonga was the first country to see the New Year each day due to its position just west of the International Date Line.
Capital facts
- Nuku'alofa is located on the northern coast of Tongatapu, the country's largest and most populated island.
- The Royal Palace in Nuku'alofa, built in 1867, is a distinctive white Victorian-style wooden structure set in waterfront gardens.
- The city is home to the Royal Tombs, a sacred site where Tongan monarchs and nobles have been buried since the nineteenth century.
- Talamahu Market in the city centre is a lively hub where locals sell fresh produce, handicrafts, and traditional woven goods.
- Nuku'alofa suffered significant damage during riots in 2006, which destroyed much of its historic commercial district.