KURANDA
The land around Kuranda has been home to the Djabugay Aboriginal people for more than 10,000 years and this vibrant indigenous culture continues to thrive today, showcased in traditional artefacts, fine visual arts, tribal dance (corroboree) and more.Aboriginal culture has survived in Australia for over 40,000 years. The Djabugay tribe who live here have strong ties to this land and there was fear and trepidation when a steady stream of European settlers from the South moved up to Kuranda in the 1970s. Art and music became a unifying force and mutual respect and understanding grew over the years.

The picturesque mountain retreat of Kuranda Village is just 25km northwest of Cairns in Far North Queensland, Australia and is surrounded by World Heritage listed wet tropics rainforest.
Visitors can travel to Kuranda on Kuranda’s Historic Scenic Railway or by car or bus, via the spectacular Kuranda Range Road or over the rainforest on Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.

It includes around twelve hundred species of flowering plants, eight hundred of which are rainforest trees. There are also orchids, ginger plants, strangler figs, palms and an immense variety of climbing plants. At any time of the year you will wonder at the richness and diversity of the lush foliage.

Kuranda has come a long way from its initial origins as a centre for those choosing an alternative lifestyle in the late 60’s. Historic Buildings from the villages past now house a variety of upmarket restaurants, cafes and bars. It is still laid back, but with a style and sophistication that sets it apart from other Cairns Highlands Venues and Attractions.

The pace of life is slower in Kuranda and there is the time and the will to learn and grow in a chosen artistic endeavour. Garden design and unusual houses suited to a tropical, leisurely lifestyle contribute to the amazing outpouring of art, poetry, music and goodwill.
Markets
Kuranda has three markets: Kuranda Original Rainforest Markets since 1978, Kuranda Heritage Market and the New Kuranda Markets.

Arts & Culture
There are many talented people living in and around Kuranda who have escaped the frenetic demands of city life in order to follow their muse. Perhaps it is something in the air, the lush beauty of the countryside and the encircling mountains have a strong pull. Kuranda is home to an extraordinary number of artists: potters, painters, photographers, glass and craft workers, masters in wood, jewellery and fabrics. Their work is on display in many of the shops, galleries and markets in the village, and it is possible to see work in progress.

The Kuranda Amphitheatre hoasts events all year. Nestled in the cool hills above the tropical Queensland coast this sculptured botanical site set in rainforest gardens has grass terraces that hold up to 3500 people. Just 30 minutes from Cairns and its international airport the Kuranda Amphitheatre is a multi-purpose venue suitable for theatre, cinema, opera, festivals, seminars, workshops, circus, dance and live music. It has been host to the best in local, national and international entertainment for over 25 years Not only is the Kuranda Amphitheatre one of Australia's most unique venues -it also serves as community venue where locals can go to enjoy themselves and be creative.

The Annual Kuranda Roots Festival is one of Australia's finest outdoor festival of world, roots reggae and dub music. It is renowned for its unique good vibes and atmosphere.

Education

Kuranda is serviced by a Kuranda District State College (Prep to Yr 12)and Candlenut Steiner School (Kindy to Yr 8)

Climate
Being situated in the tropics, Kuranda experiences only mild variations in temperature and its seasons consist of a dry season and a wet season. The weather is not as humid as the nearby coastal city of Cairns, as it is high in the hinterlands. The coolest month is July, and the hottest January. In July a light jacket may be needed on some cool days and evenings.

 

THE TABLELANDS   ATHERTON    CAIRNS        KURANDA      MAREEBA    YUNGABURRA    FNQ Region    HOME