WHAT TO DO IN KAMPALA CITY
Kampala is Uganda’s central business area and the largest urban center attracting large numbers of people from all areas of the country. The capital Kampala has a population of over 1.5 Million people since it harbors major business activities and almost all government operations. Kampala was known as a city of seven hills in the old days but has outgrown that name. The seven hills remain historical and remain the backbone of the tourism with in the city. Some of the attractions in Kampala and things to do include the following;
The Bahai Temple
At Kikaya hill in the outskirts of Kampala City sits the only Bahai temple in the whole of Africa. This uniquely built temple offers a special environment for those who love to sit and relax and also bird watching as you oversea most parts of Kampala city. This temple is often frequented by a large number of people from all faiths since it does not discriminate.
Buganda Kingdom palace
The Buganda kingdom is arguably the oldest and the most prominent monarchy in Uganda with great history for many years. The palace sits at Mengo hill in the capital city. The palace was abandoned. The kingdom is headed by a king (kabaka) who is represented by the royal drums. You’ll learn about the great cultural rituals performed by the king on the royal drums before ascending to power as their King.
Kasubi tombs
One of the UNESCO world heritage sites in Uganda is the Kasubi tombs. It is one of the most visited cultural sites in Kampala due to its historical background. The Baganda believe that kings do not die; they just disappear to another world. The royal guards will lead you to the well curved huts where the former kings were buried as they share more insights on the roles played by each of the kings during their reign as kings.
Uganda Martyrs Shrine
The Namugongo martyrs’ shrine is one of the most visited religious sites in Africa due to its History. It is located a few kilometers from the city center. In 1886, a number of innocent Christians were burnt alive in fire or killed in another way on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga who saw their conversion as a threat to his rule. Some of the converted people to the foreign religious beliefs had started to disobey the king’s rules due to their faith and the King could not stand to be challenged and decided to kill them.
Namirembe Cathedral
This is arguably the oldest Anglican church building of Uganda, it was erected in 1919 and named St. Paul’s Cathedral Namirembe Church of Uganda. The church sits on Namirembe hill a great spot to view the city center and the surrounding areas. The cathedral also has a graveyard for the previous church leaders. The Archbishops residence is a few meters away from the Cathedral and if you’re looking for a place to worship from, this is one place for you.
Uganda Wildlife education center (UWEC)
This is one place in Uganda where you get to see most of Uganda’s most wildlife species. UWEC is strategically located in Entebbe just an hour’s or less time depending on the traffic on the road from Kampala city to Entebbe.
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee sanctuary
This great Island on Lake Victoria can be accessed by boat; it is home to the abandoned and orphaned chimpanzees and has bee attracting travelers from all parts of the world. These apes have found a safe home in a forest in the middle of the lake.
Uganda National Museum
Founded in 1908 by the British governor George Wilson, the Uganda Museum is the oldest museum in Uganda. It is located close to the City in Kamwokya very close to the city. It was built to preserve the great cultural, religious heritage of Uganda.
Ndere cultural center
Ndere cultural center is located a few Kilometers from the city center in a place called Kisasi. It showcases the country’s cultural heritage for most of the tribes in one place. You have a chance to enjoy local dishes as you listen to beautiful cultural music and dances. If you wish to engage in the dances or preparation of the local dishes; you have all the chance or sit back and relax and let the team entertain you.
