Short answer: The Kasubi Tombs on Kasubi Hill in Kampala are the royal burial ground of four Buganda kings and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001. The main building burned on 16 March 2010 and was rebuilt, and press reports in April 2026 said the site was open to visitors again, with a formal reopening ceremony still to come.
Last updated: 29 October 2026. Confirm opening status and fees with the Buganda Kingdom before you go.
The Kasubi Tombs are the spiritual heart of the Buganda Kingdom. After a fire in 2010 and years of reconstruction, visitors can see them again. This guide explains the history, the rules for visiting, and how the site fits into a faith heritage tour.
History of the Kasubi Tombs
The main building, Muzibu Azaala Mpanga, was constructed in 1882 as a palace of Kabaka Muteesa I and became a royal mausoleum in 1884. Four kings are buried there: Muteesa I, Mwanga II, Daudi Chwa II and Sir Edward Muteesa II.
UNESCO listed the site in 2001. After the fire of 16 March 2010 it was placed on the list of World Heritage in Danger and was removed from that list in 2023 after the buildings were restored. In December 2025 the Katikkiro of Buganda announced that reconstruction, which cost 13 billion shillings raised locally, was complete.
Kasubi Tombs key facts
| Detail | Fact |
|---|---|
| Location | Kasubi Hill, about 5 km north-west of Kampala centre |
| Site size | About 26 hectares (64 acres) |
| Main building | Muzibu Azaala Mpanga, built 1882 |
| Kings buried | Muteesa I, Mwanga II, Daudi Chwa II, Sir Edward Muteesa II |
| UNESCO | Inscribed 2001; on the Danger list 2010 to 2023 |
| Fire | 16 March 2010 |
| Reconstruction | Announced complete December 2025 |
What visitors see
The entrance is a large thatched building that looks like an upturned basket. Inside, a bark cloth curtain hides the graves, which only close family may approach. The ceiling carries rings that stand for Buganda’s 52 clans. Widows of the kings serve in shifts to welcome pilgrims, and guides explain the history. Royal drums are kept in the communication house.
The graves were dug 13 feet deep, and press reports credit that depth with protecting the remains in the fire.
Rules and etiquette
- Take off your shoes before entering.
- Dress modestly and keep silent in sacred areas.
- Women in trousers may be asked to wear a wrap (lesu) in the mausoleum; a wrap may be offered at the office.
- Photography is restricted in some inner areas, so ask your guide.
- Follow the custodians. Men are asked to walk backwards when leaving the main tomb house.
We did not find published opening hours or entry fees.
Combine the Kasubi Tombs with other sites
The tombs fit naturally into a Kampala day with Namirembe, Rubaga and other Kampala churches and cathedrals. They can be added to our joint faith half-day pilgrimage on request. See religious tourism in Uganda for all itineraries.
Kasubi Tombs FAQs
Are the Kasubi Tombs open to visitors?
Press reports in April 2026 said the site was open to the public, with a formal reopening ceremony still to come. Confirm with the Buganda Kingdom before you visit.
Who is buried at the Kasubi Tombs?
Four Buganda kings: Muteesa I, Mwanga II, Daudi Chwa II and Sir Edward Muteesa II.
What happened to the Kasubi Tombs in 2010?
The main building, Muzibu Azaala Mpanga, burned on 16 March 2010. It was rebuilt over several years, and reconstruction was announced complete in December 2025.
What should I wear to the Kasubi Tombs?
Dress modestly and remove your shoes. Women in trousers may be offered a wrap to wear in the mausoleum.
Can you include the Kasubi Tombs in a tour?
Yes, on request. Request a free quote.
Plan This Trip With Afraeka Adventures
Turn this guide into a real itinerary. Our local team plans your dates, transport and guides around your group.
About the author: Victoria Kayaga
Victoria Kayaga is a Ugandan-born safari expert and the founder of Afraeka Adventures, with over 7 years of experience in the East African tourism industry. She specializes in gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris and multi-country itineraries across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania.
