Capital city
Heritage site · UNESCO World Heritage Site
Kasubi Tombs
The royal burial ground of the Kabakas of Buganda.
- Central Uganda
- Best: Jun–Sep, Dec–Feb
- World Heritage Site since 2001
Overview
- UNESCO listing
- 2001
- Built
- 1882
- Kabakas buried
- 4
- Rebuilt after fire
- Completed 2023
The Tombs of Buganda Kings at Kasubi sit on Kasubi hill in Kampala. The main building, Muzibu Azaala Mpanga, was built in 1882 as the palace of Kabaka Muteesa I and became a royal tomb in 1884.
Four Kabakas are buried here: Muteesa I, Mwanga II, Daudi Chwa II and Sir Edward Muteesa II. UNESCO listed the site in 2001 as a masterpiece of Ganda architecture in organic materials.
A fire destroyed the main tomb house in March 2010. It was rebuilt by Buganda craftspeople using traditional thatch, reed and wood, and in September 2023 UNESCO removed the site from its List of World Heritage in Danger.
- Muzibu Azaala Mpanga
The great thatched tomb house, one of Africa's largest.
- Living tradition
Traditional custodians still care for the site and keep its rituals.
- Buganda history
Guides explain the kingdom's rulers and rituals.
Things to do
- Guided tour
Led by site guides; about one hour.
When to go
Open all year.
- Jan: Best
- Feb: Best
- Mar: Good
- Apr: Good
- May: Good
- Jun: Best
- Jul: Best
- Aug: Best
- Sep: Best
- Oct: Good
- Nov: Good
- Dec: Best
Costs
An entry and guide fee is paid at the gate to the site's managers.
Getting there
- By roadFrom Kampala city centreAbout 20–40 minutes
About 5 km northwest of the centre on Kasubi hill.
Open larger map Directions Marker shows an approximate location.
Photos
Know before you go
- Remove shoes inside the tomb house and follow guides' instructions.
- Dress modestly; women may be asked to wear a wrap over trousers.
- Ask before taking photographs inside.
Frequently asked questions
Why are the Kasubi Tombs a World Heritage Site?
UNESCO recognises them as an outstanding example of Ganda architecture in organic materials and as a living centre of Buganda's spiritual and political life.
Were the tombs rebuilt after the fire?
Yes. The main tomb house was rebuilt with traditional materials and methods, and UNESCO took the site off its danger list in September 2023.
Sources
Checked on 23 October 2026. Fees and rules change; confirm with the authority or your operator before you pay.
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