The capital city of Uganda, Kampala city, is an intriguing location to visit. This city, overflowing with rich culture and pleasant locals, provides a diverse choice of activities for those who devote the time to discover it.
Uganda is gifted with many natural attractions by Mother Nature, such as Murchison Falls, the famous Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, and many more. In addition, Uganda also has the largest lake in the world, Lake Victoria. Here you can find interesting activities like whitewater rafting, or experience gorilla trekking, or mountain hiking. Much of this tourist activity takes place in the countryside, but that doesn't make Kampala city any less attractive to tourists. In this article, we will list some activities that you can do when visiting the capital Kampala.
Top 7 must-see locations in Kampala city
Uganda National Museum This is the oldest museum in East Africa. The museum was first established in 1908 and had been relocated several times before it was finally settled at Kitante Hill. This museum is a large library that records the entire history of Uganda along with longstanding cultural traditions such as music, musical instruments, natural history, its history, and archaeology. When visiting Kampala city, you should not miss the national museum, visitors will get a broad view of the culture and people of Uganda.
Martyr Shrine Namugongo The Martyrs Shrine Namugongo in Uganda is a fascinating destination to stop by when in the country. Travelers may visit this landmark as part of a tour of Kampala city, along with other famous sights such as the King’s Palace, the Ndeere Cultural Centre, and the Uganda National Museum among others. For almost a decade, on 3rd June every year, the Ugandan people celebrate Martyr’s Day. This special day gathers worshippers from different parts of the world, particularly from neighboring Kenya, Tanzania, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Students from all throughout Uganda visit the Uganda Martyrs' Shrine. Clergy travels barefoot to the Namugongo shrine as a devotion in honor of the victims who have been slaughtered for their strong Christian faith. Martyrs Day includes a variety of activities including prayers, baptism, dramas, singing, and cuisine.
Gaddafi Mosque Uganda National Mosque, also known as Gaddafi Mosque, is situated on Kampala Hill. This fascinating mosque can hold approximately 14,000 worshippers, an additional 1,200 in the gallery as well as 3,400 on the terrace. Libyan Leader Muammar Gaddafi constructed the Mosque as a present to Uganda for the benefit of the Muslim community. The Mosque started opening in June 2007 and holds the Muslim Supreme Council's headquarters. The Gaddafi mosque is a stylish, beautiful construction with excellent art characteristics on the inside that was inspired by European, Arab, and African traditions. The mosque is accessible to all tourists, making it an ideal destination to discover while on your safari in Kampala city. The Gaddafi mosque is recognized as one of the holiest places in Africa, with the highest bell tower where the high priest invites Muslims to prayer.
Bahai Temple The Bahai Temple, which is accessible to the public, is acknowledged as the Mother Temple of Africa and is placed on Kikaya Hill. The Bahai Temple has distinctive architecture and was constructed on land with lovely landscapes full of flowers and trees, meadows, and clean natural ground. The Bahai temple depicts "belief" and was built with a distinctive look using materials like landscape and structure based on the social, cultural, and natural characteristics of its place. The Mother Temple provides a fantastic viewpoint because it is positioned on a hill, as well as its distinctive structure and verdant landscape. The temple serves as a tourist destination in Kampala city. Many tourists come to this beautiful spot for pleasant experiences while admiring Uganda's natural beauty.
Ndere Cultural Centre The Ndere Cultural Centre is located outside of the city, in the Kisasi neighborhood. The Ndere Cultural Centre celebrates Uganda's cultural history via traditional music, dance, and theater, among other things. The Centre provides the opportunity to learn how to prepare traditional cuisine and dance to traditional music. If this kind of thing does not interest you, you may simply relax and admire the popular Ndere Troupe performing exquisite traditional dances.
Namirembe Cathedral Namirembe Cathedral is an absolute must-see when visiting Kampala city. The Namirembe hill is set on a lovely hill, and as you continue making your approach to the cathedral, you'll get a fantastic glimpse of the city. Moreover, you can find a variety of colorful birds of all sizes. However, if you come here on the weekend, it will be very busy and crowded. The building was constructed using old Mahogany wood and possesses an exquisite sense. Additionally, if you have some time to explore the area, there are opportunities to browse for Christian artifacts outside the cathedral and other businesses near the church. Some individuals may find things a little too religious, however, but if you don't mind, you may buy anything you desire.
Owino and Nakasero Markets Visit Nakasero and Owino markets to browse for fresh farm foods and fabric/clothing, such as beef, fowl, vegetables, and tubers. This site should be on your Uganda bucket list if you want to witness the local lifestyle in Kampala city. It will lead you to the city's two most important local markets, Nakasero and Owino. Nakasero market mainly sells fresh farm products. Then there's Owino, which contains everything from farm products to clothing, prepared cuisine, artisan businesses, and other stuff. Since 1895, Nakasero has been a major trading district in Kampala city. The lively and frequently noisy market provides insight into local life. The big outdoor sector sells fresh fruit, while the inside zone consists of clothing, hardware, and handicrafts. The largest open market in Uganda, Owino market covers an area of about 70,000 square meters. Nakasero market was formed when Kampala evacuated more than 300 merchants from Owino Market in 1971. Owino Market receives thousands of people every day, and this number is even higher on festival days. When visiting Owino Market, you can find many shops selling clothes, shoes, machinery, home appliances, natural herbs, etc. In addition, Owino also serves diverse and attractive dishes. You will have to spend at least half a day exploring and experiencing it all in the Owino market.
For more information about uganda visa as well as how to apply for a visa, please go to uganda immigration services website.
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