Ashanti Region

The Ashanti Region covers an area of 24,390sq.km, about 10.2% of the total land area of Ghana. It is the 2nd most populous region in Ghana with a total population of 3,432.485 Ashanti has always been unofficially referred to as the most connected town in Ghana. There is some argument regarding its centrality in the nation. Others think Kintampo is rather the geographical centre. The Ashanti Region, home to the great Ashanti Kingdom, boasts of the largest open market in West Africa. It is well connected to the rest of the country by air, rail and road.

In Ashanti, wide city streets flanked by independence age architecture, are set against lush rain forests within which are gold mines, forest reserves, craft villages, educational institutions and sports facilities. Full of rich culture, pomp and pageantry, the region is also renowned for its unique historic and mythical landmarks. Ashanti is currently reputed to be the culture capital of Ghana.

Kumasi is the capital of both the Ashanti Region and Ashanti Kingdom. Historically, the city dates back to 1700, where the traditional priest, Okomfo Anokye, assisted his friend Osei Tutu to establish the Ashanti Kingdom. As the seat or the government of a rich and prosperous in the century monarchical kingdom, the city of Kumasi and its suburbs has lots of artisanal settlements.

In 1980, the Asanti Traditional Buildings (shrines) were listed on the World Heritage List as rare surviving examples of a unique architectural style.

Ejisu Besease Shrine

Located at Besease, 22km from the centre of Kumasi on the Accra-Kumasi Road; this was the shrine consulted of the Late Yaa Asantewaa, queen mother of Ejisu, before she led the Ashanti armies to their last war with the British. The building has recently been restored and also hosts a small exhibition which provides both historical and technical information on Traditional-Ashanu Architecture. Tne shrine contains some of the finest decorations, and is open to the general public.

Centre Tor National Culture

There is a lot to see at the centre for National culture office in Kumasi. The Centre houses the Prempeh II Museum, souvenir shops, communications centre, restaurants, campsite, religious centre, Ashanti library, exhibition hall, open-air theatre, craft centre, and Regional Tourist Board Offices. The Centre is a must-see sight for all visitors to the Ashanti Region, for it provides a vivid overview of the Ashanti Kingdom. Its people and their heritage. A visit to this place will surely leave no one in doubt that Ashanti Region is the Cultural base of Ghana’s tourism

Bobiri forest reserve

This forest reserve is situated 35km south-east of Kumas at Kubease on the Kumasi-Accra Road. It has the largest collection of butterflies in the country. The forest has been developed through an arboretum approach of identifying trees and shrubs of interest to both international and domestic tourists. Research Kente is also conducted into the medical properties and uses of tropical trees

National Attractions

  • Lake Bosomtwe, Abono, 35km south-east of Kumasi Accra
  • Bobiri Forest Reserve and Butterfly Sanctuary, Kubease 35km
  • Owabi Bird Sanctuary, 50km from Kumasi
  • Atiwa Rock formations, Nsuta, 40km from kumasi
  • Mframabuo Caves. Kwaman, 55km from Kumasi

Craft Villages

  • Kente weaving at Bonwire, 8km north-east or kumasi
  • Pottery at Pankronu, 3km north of Kumasi.
  • Wood carving at Ahwiaa, 6km north of Kumasi.
  • Adinkra clothing making at Ntonsu
  • Beads making at Asuofa-Asamang. Barekese road
  • Brass-smiths at Ampabeme Krofrom
  • Goldsmiths and silversmiths in Kumasi

Historical Heritage

  • Manhyia Palace Museum, Kumas
  • okomto Anokve sword, kumasi.
  • Prempeh II Jubilee Museum. Kumasi
  • Centre for National Culture, Kumasi.
  • Kumasi Fort Museum
  • Asantemanso Village.
  • Kumawu Town.
  • Kentinkrono Shrine.
  • Patakro Shrine.
  • Ejisu-Besease Shrine.