Sitting majestically on Mengo Hill, the Kabaka’s Palace (Lubiri) is more than just a royal residence—it is a living emblem of the Buganda Kingdom’s history, pride, and resilience. Connecting this palace to the Buganda Parliament (Bulange) is the Royal Mile, a symbolic road steeped in tradition and political significance.
For visitors exploring Kampala with Keefa Motor Tours, this combined stop offers not only breathtaking views and architecture but also a journey into centuries of royal tradition and stories that have shaped Uganda.
A Seat of Power and Tradition
The Buganda Kingdom is Uganda’s largest and most influential traditional monarchy, with roots stretching back over 700 years. The Kabaka (King) is its cultural and spiritual leader, playing a role that is both ceremonial and deeply symbolic in uniting the Baganda people.
The Kabaka’s Palace—known in Luganda as Lubiri—was built in 1885 during the reign of Kabaka Mwanga II. Since then, it has served as the official residence of successive kings. The palace grounds cover over 2 square miles, surrounded by a perimeter wall and lush gardens.
Even though the current Kabaka resides elsewhere, the palace remains a key venue for royal ceremonies and a historical focal point for the kingdom.
The Royal Mile: A Road Full of Symbolism
The Royal Mile—called Lubiri Ring Road by some—is the grand avenue that links the Kabaka’s Palace directly to the Buganda Parliament building, the Bulange.
The road is lined with 52 carefully planted trees, each representing one of Buganda’s traditional clans. These clans are the foundation of Baganda identity, with each person belonging to one through birthright.
This symbolic connection between the palace and parliament represents the link between royal authority and legislative governance within the kingdom. When the Kabaka travels down the Royal Mile for official ceremonies, it’s a powerful display of unity between cultural heritage and leadership.
Architecture and Layout
The palace itself is a striking colonial-era structure, with whitewashed walls, arched windows, and a commanding central entrance. Surrounding the main building are well-kept lawns and gardens, dotted with historical features, including:
- The Royal Drum House – where ceremonial drums are kept and played during special occasions.
- The Palace Gates – decorated with the kingdom’s crest and symbols of authority.
- Guard Houses – small buildings that historically accommodated the Kabaka’s protectors.
From the palace gates, looking down the Royal Mile toward Bulange Hill, you get one of Kampala’s most photogenic views—a perfectly straight road leading to another grand building, framed by the avenue’s green canopy.
A Dark Chapter: The Idi Amin Era
While the palace is a place of cultural pride, it also holds memories of a painful time in Buganda’s history. In 1966, political tensions between Kabaka Mutesa II (then President of Uganda) and Prime Minister Milton Obote erupted into violence. Obote ordered an attack on the palace, forcing the Kabaka into exile.
During Idi Amin’s rule in the 1970s, a section of the palace grounds was turned into a military command post and an underground torture chamber. Today, this dark relic remains as a stark reminder of the human rights abuses that took place during that period.
Visiting this site with a guide provides important historical context, helping visitors understand how Uganda’s political struggles have intertwined with the Buganda Kingdom’s history.
Cultural and Ceremonial Importance
Despite its turbulent past, the palace remains a central location for royal ceremonies such as:
- Kabaka’s Birthday Celebrations – a national public holiday in Buganda.
- Coronation Anniversaries – marking the Kabaka’s ascent to the throne.
- Cultural Festivals – showcasing traditional dances, music, and dress.
The palace grounds also host important clan meetings and rituals, reinforcing the role of tradition in modern Buganda society.
Fun & Lesser-Known Facts
- The Royal Mile is exactly one mile long and perfectly straight—a feat of planning for its time.
- Each tree along the avenue is considered sacred to the clan it represents.
- The palace grounds include underground passageways built during colonial times.
- Kabaka Mutesa II was both a traditional king and the first President of independent Uganda.
- The Bulange (at the far end of the Royal Mile) was built with funds from World War II veterans’ compensation.
Visitor Tips
If you’re visiting Kabaka’s Palace & The Royal Mile with Keefa Motor Tours:
- Opening Hours – Usually open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Entrance Fee – A small fee goes toward preservation of the site.
- Dress Code – Modest dress is appreciated; this is a royal and cultural site.
- Guided Tours – Strongly recommended to fully understand the history and symbolism.
- Photography – Allowed in most areas, but be mindful of restrictions inside certain sections.
Why It’s a Must-Visit
This stop offers the perfect blend of beauty, history, and cultural significance. You’ll see the grandeur of Buganda’s monarchy, walk along a road rich with symbolic meaning, and learn about the kingdom’s resilience through both glory and hardship.
With Keefa Motor Tours, your visit goes beyond just seeing the buildings—you’ll hear the legends of the Kabakas, learn the meaning behind the clan system, and understand the delicate balance between tradition and modern governance in Uganda.
Final Thoughts
The Kabaka’s Palace and Royal Mile together tell a complete story—one of leadership, identity, and perseverance. From the proud traditions of the Baganda to the painful scars of political conflict, this is a place where Uganda’s history comes vividly alive.
Standing at the gates of the palace, gazing down the Royal Mile toward the Bulange, you can almost feel the weight of history stretching before you. And with the right guide, it’s a journey that will stay with you long after you’ve left Mengo Hill.
📍 Location: Mengo Hill, Kampala, Uganda
🎟 Entry Fee: Small preservation fee ($10)
🚴 Best Way to Visit: With Keefa Motor Tours for historical storytelling and guided palace grounds access
