Culture & Heritage · Mengo, Kampala
Mengo Palace (Lubiri) & Kabaka's Lake
The official palace of the Kabaka of Buganda, linked to the royal Bulange building and the large Kabaka's Lake.
How to get there
In the Mengo area of Kampala, a short drive from the city centre.
What to find
The palace grounds, the history of Buganda, the Amin-era detention chambers, and a walk to Kabaka's Lake.
Overview
The Lubiri, or Mengo Palace, is the palace of the Kabaka (king) of Buganda. It's linked by a straight royal road, Kabaka Anjagala, to the Bulange, the Buganda parliament building. In 1966 the palace was stormed by government troops, and the king fled into exile.
Later, under Idi Amin, part of the grounds was used as an army barracks with underground detention chambers, which visitors can see today. Nearby Kabaka's Lake is a large man-made lake dug in the 1880s under Kabaka Mwanga II.
Highlights
- The royal palace grounds
- The Amin-era detention chambers, a sobering part of the tour
- The Bulange and the royal road
- Kabaka's Lake
Things to do
Guided tour
The palace grounds, history and detention chambers.
Kabaka's Lake
A walk or short visit to the lake.
Best time to visit
All year.
Getting there
In Mengo, Kampala, about 10 to 15 minutes from the city centre.
Where to stay
Stay in Kampala.
Kampala
A selection of well-known options, not a complete list. See all accommodation in Uganda →
Good to know
- Combine with the Kasubi Tombs and the Bulange for a royal Buganda day.
Permit prices, park rules and access can change. We always confirm the latest details when we plan your trip.