NKOKONJERU TOMBS
Overview
For the Banyankole people, the royal Nkokonjeru tombs, located in Kaakika in the Mbarara area of western Uganda, are a significant location. The bones of two Ankole monarchs, including King (Omugabe) Sir Charles Godfrey Rutahaba Gashyonga II, who passed away in 1982, may be found at the Nkokonjeru royal tombs. and Edward Solomon Kahaya II, King (Omugabe), who passed away in 1944.
The site is a significant historical location for the people of Ankole kingdom, where King Sir Charles Godfrey Rutahaba Gashyonga is said to have governed for 23 years. There are apparently eight other burials, all of which are small. Several cultural rituals and customs are typically conducted there.
Dr. Apollo Milton Obote dissolved kingdoms on September 17, 1967, while he was president of Uganda. However, his Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni reinstated kingdoms once he took office, but regrettably, the Ankole Kingdom was not one of them. The graves will probably disappear from the Ankole Kingdom's history if they are not renovated in a few years.
Regretfully, the site was sold to private developers. It is said that the late Prince John Barigye was engaged in the sale, although other royal authorities are unaware of what became of the property. However, some royals claim that other enigmatic individuals have since taken it.
It is reported that the late Prince John Barigye, who was known as a king who never sat on his throne, sold the property because he was upset by not being crowned before his death. With the exception of cow grazers who intrude with their animals, the area has been abandoned for years.
Tourists may become entangled with the rich culture of the Ankole people, who are known for their long-horned cows, in addition to touring the royal tombs. Traveling to the people will expose you to a cultural safari experience. Visitors can participate in daily activities such as milking and cattle grazing, and they can enjoy local traditional songs at cultural centers that offer a variety of handcrafted souvenirs for them to remember back home.
Uganda boasts abundant wildlife and is a birder's paradise. Visitors can experience some of the endemic birds and wildlife in national parks like Queen Elizabeth or Semliki National Park, as well as a variety of other wildlife that may not be found elsewhere in Africa.
Three kilometers outside of Mbarara town are the Nkokonjeru tombs. From Kampala, you may get to Mbarara via the Mbarara-Masaka route using either public or private transportation.
Tourists may stay in a variety of hotels and lodges in Mbarara town while visiting the Nkokonjeru tombs; they include mid-range, luxury, and budget accommodations with friendly personnel and cozy rooms.
Reasons why you should visit Nkokonjeru Tombs
The ancient customs and history of the Ugandan people, especially the Ankole culture, are remarkably preserved in the Nkokonjeru Tombs. This tourist destination in Mbarara is more than simply a cemetery; it's a gathering spot for tales of courage, leadership, and culture. A calm environment that encourages introspection and reverence will overwhelm you as you go closer to the graves
The site's natural beauty, which includes undulating hills and lush greenery, provides the ideal setting for the graves' solemnity. The serene atmosphere that promotes a greater comprehension of the regional customs and the importance of paying respect to one's ancestors frequently strikes visitors.
There are guided tours that offer information about the tombs' history and stories. Tourists may relate to the cultural stories that have been passed down through the years thanks to the engaging stories that knowledgeable guides give.
A deep respect for the local tradition is evoked by the experience of strolling through these hallowed grounds and hearing the stories that go along with them. Photographers will love taking images of the beautiful surroundings, which makes it the perfect place for special moments.
A deep respect for the local tradition is evoked by the experience of strolling through these hallowed grounds and hearing the stories that go along with them. Photographers will love taking images of the beautiful surroundings, which makes it the perfect place for special moments. The Nkokonjeru Tombs offer a fascinating experience that will stay with you long after your visit, regardless of your interests in history, culture, or just a peaceful getaway. Because this is a location where history and nature collide, be sure to spend some time to soak in the ambiance and consider the lives of people who lie here.
How to get to Nkokonjeru Tombs
Travel northeast on Main Street from the heart of Mbarara to the intersection with the Kabale-Mbarara Road. For approximately 1.5 kilometers, keep traveling straight on this road until you get to the roundabout intersection. Walk roughly two kilometers after taking the first exit into the Kabale-Mbarara Road (A104) at the roundabout. Keep an eye out for the Nkokonjeru Tombs signage on your left. Approximately 500 meters off the main road, follow the sign to a tiny dirt road that will lead you straight to the tombs.
A bicycle
Proceed northeast toward Main Street from Mbarara's primary bus park. Turn right on Main Street and continue straight until you get to the roundabout. Take the first exit onto Kabale-Mbarara Road (A104) at the junction. After about two kilometers of riding, you will come to a sign announcing Nkokonjeru Tombs on the left. Proceed approximately 500 meters after turning onto the dusty path that leads to the graves.
Boda Boda Public Transportation
Locate a local boda boda (motorcycle taxi) stand from where you are in Mbarara. Tell the driver you wish to see the Tombs of Nkokonjeru. You must pay attention to the landmarks as the driver leads you along the Kabale-Mbarara Road (A104). Tell the driver to drop you off at Nkokonjeru Tombs as soon as you see the marker. Depending on traffic, the trip should take around fifteen minutes.
Attractions Nearby to Nkokonjeru Tombs
IANA HILL GARDENS
Nkore Place
Roosty's Restaurant & Gardens
Ntare Gardenz
The Pinnacle Gardens
Palace of Omugabe
River. Rwizi
San Diego Gorilla Safaris
Bwindi,
The symbol for Independence Park
Haven in Rubango
Imani and Ashiki Gardens
The beach of Nyakairu Resort
Mbarara River Rwizi Falls
Sites close to the Nkokonjeru Tombs
Kosiya Hotel & Services Apartment
Emblem for Wagga Resort Mbarara
Symbol for Big Chef Restaurant
Rubax Motel Mbarara
Emblem for the Pinnacle Hotel Mbarara
Mbarara Night Out Suites
Emblem for Mayoo in Tech UG
Spannet Suites
Mbarara's Palm World Hotel
Motel Rhino
Emblem for the Greenville residence
Musinguzi Evans
Little Woods Inn
DE BOSS
The Times of Ankole