Bahir Dar, Ethiopia is a vibrant city located on the southern shore of Lake Tana. It is the capital of the Amhara Region and is one of Ethiopia’s most popular tourist destinations due to its stunning scenery, cultural attractions, and historical sites. Here are the top 20 places to see in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.
1. Blue Nile Falls: This magnificent waterfall is located on the Blue Nile River about 30 kilometers south of Bahir Dar. It is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in all of Africa and is a must-see for any visitor to the area.
2. Lake Tana: This large lake is the source of the Blue Nile River and is home to a variety of bird species. Boat tours of Lake Tana are available and visitors can also visit the monasteries located on the lake’s many islands.
3. Debre Mariam Monastery: This monastery is located on an island in Lake Tana and is believed to date back to the 13th century. It is home to a variety of ancient religious artifacts and is a popular tourist destination.
4. Bahir Dar Museum: This museum is located in the city center and houses a variety of artifacts from the region’s history. It is a great place to learn about Bahir Dar’s rich culture and heritage.
5. Tis Isat Falls: This waterfall is located on the Blue Nile River and is a popular spot for swimming and relaxing. Visitors can also take a boat tour of the falls.
6. Bezawit Palace: This palace is the former residence of Haile Selassie, the last emperor of Ethiopia. It is now open to the public and visitors can explore the palace grounds and view the emperor’s personal artifacts.
7. Ura Kidane Mehret Church: This church is located on the shores of Lake Tana and is one of the most famous religious sites in Ethiopia. It is also the site of several religious festivals throughout the year.
8. Azwa Maryam Monastery: This monastery is located on an island in Lake Tana and is known for its beautiful architecture. Visitors can explore the monastery grounds and view the ancient religious artifacts housed inside.
9. Abay River: This river is located near Bahir Dar and is a popular spot for white water rafting and kayaking.
10. Gorgora: This small town is located on the northern shore of Lake Tana and is home to a variety of historical sites. Visitors can explore the town’s many churches and monasteries.
11. Amhara People’s Cultural Center: This center is located in Bahir Dar and is a great place to learn about the culture and history of the Amhara people.
12. St. George’s Cathedral: This cathedral is located in the city center and is the largest church in Ethiopia. It is a popular tourist attraction and is home to a variety of religious artifacts.
13. Kibran Gabriel Monastery: This monastery is located on an island in Lake Tana and is home to a variety of ancient religious artifacts. Visitors can explore the monastery grounds and view the ancient artifacts housed inside.
14. Fasil Ghebbi: This palace is located in Gondar and is a popular tourist destination. It is home to a variety of historical artifacts and is a great place to learn about the history of the area.
15. Debre Sina Monastery: This monastery is located on an island in Lake Tana and is home to a variety of religious artifacts. Visitors can explore the monastery grounds and view the ancient artifacts housed inside.
16. Kuskuam Church: This church is located in the city center and is home to a variety of religious artifacts. Visitors can explore the church grounds and view the ancient artifacts housed inside.
17. Tana Qirqos Monastery: This monastery is located on an island in Lake Tana and is home to a variety of ancient religious artifacts. Visitors can explore the monastery grounds and view the ancient artifacts housed inside.
18. Abune Yosef Monastery: This monastery is located on an island in Lake Tana and is home to a variety of ancient religious artifacts. Visitors can explore the monastery grounds and view the ancient artifacts housed inside.
19. Janhoy Monastery: This monastery is located on an island in Lake Tana and is home to a variety of ancient religious artifacts. Visitors can explore the monastery grounds and view the ancient artifacts housed inside.
20. Debre Berhan Selassie Church: This church is located in the city center and is home to a variety of religious artifacts. Visitors can explore the church grounds and view the ancient artifacts housed inside.
Bahir Dar, Ethiopia is a vibrant city full of culture and history. From the majestic Blue Nile Falls to the beautiful monasteries on Lake Tana, there is something for everyone to explore in this amazing city. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled holiday, Bahir Dar has it all.