Bahai Temple

Tour Overview

The Bahá'í Mother Temple of Africa, also known as the Mashriqu'l-Adhkar, is a breathtaking architectural landmark situated on Kikaaya Hill, approximately 6km north of Kampala city center. Completed in January 1961, it remains the first and only Bahá'í House of Worship on the African continent.
Architectural Highlights
Symbolic Design: The temple features a nine-sided structure representing the unity of all major world religions.
Cultural Fusion: Its conical shape is inspired by traditional African huts, blending local motifs with modern spiritual design.
Global Materials: The structure was a collaborative effort, utilizing Italian mosaic tiles for the dome, German colored glass for the windows, and Belgian roof tiles, while the timber was sourced locally from Uganda.
Dimensions: Standing nearly 38 meters (125 feet) tall, the temple was once the tallest building in East Africa.
The Grounds & Nature
Expansive Gardens: The temple is set on 52 acres of meticulously maintained park-like grounds, featuring fruit trees, flowering shrubs, and lush lawns.
Birding Haven: A recognized hotspot for nature lovers, the grounds host over 100 bird species, including palm nut vultures, grey woodpeckers, and Great Blue Turacos.
Panoramic Views: Its hilltop location offers a stunning 360-degree view of Kampala's seven hills and, on clear days, even Lake Victoria.

Visitor Information
Universal Welcome: The temple is open to all faiths for silent prayer, meditation, and reflection.
Services: Weekly Sunday services are held at 10:30 AM, featuring scripture readings and a cappella hymns.
Rules of Conduct: Visitors are asked to dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), maintain silence inside, and refrain from taking photographs inside the building.