Battlefields Overview
As in many parts of the world, the later part of the 19th Century was a time of conflict and confron
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In and Around
Battlefields
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When
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2008/09/01 08:00 am to 2008/09/14 06:00 pm
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Witness the vibrant cultural celebration of the Zulu Nation - Umkhosi woMhlanga
A colourful festival of deep cultural significance to the Zulu people will be played out again in September, larger than ever. The Royal Reed Dance (Umkhosi Womhlanga) traditionally celebrates, through the purity of thousands of maidens dancing for their King, the moral values of the Zulu nation and the people’s unity with their monarch. 2006 saw 25’000 maidens participating in the traditional dance, and there were close to 30’000 to expected in 2007. The ceremony is at eNyokeni, the Royal Residence outside Nongoma, and it lasts two days.
Increasingly, its emphasis on virginity and purity is an important weapon in the campaign against HIV/Aids. And the spectacle – attended by tens of thousands of people – promises to develop into an important part of the Cultural Tourism that is being developed in the north-east of KwaZulu-Natal; to become a lever of economic upliftment.
The highlight is when traditionally clad maidens form up and march to the Royal Residence, each carrying the traditional reed which signifies purity and virginity. Led by the Chief Princess, each hands over her reed to King Goodwill Zwelithini before joining traditional dances in the arena.
The Royal Reed Dance is becoming an add-on to the eMakhosini/Opathe Heritage Park, near Ulundi, which offers both cultural and eco-tourism in the ruggedly magnificent surroundings that forged the Zulu nation; as well as to Isandlwana, Rorke’s Drift and other battlefields of the Anglo/Zulu War.
Hot Tip! Don't view this occasion as a photo or video opportunity. Two tourists were once arrested for getting snap happy so be considerate and observe respect for the girls' and their cultural traditions.
So, when is the show? Dates are to be confirmed - the festival usually takes place in early September. For more information view KZN Tourism website.
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Contact Person
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Contact Details
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Event website
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http://www.kzn.org.za/kzn/news/283.xml
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The Royal Reed Dance
© www.kzn.org.za
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Accommodation near Battlefields
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(Please note: distances shown are 'as the crow flies', and not necessarily the actual travelling distance)
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Penryn is a gracious old home in central Dundee, which has been tastefully converted into a charming B&B. It is close to all amenities and easily accessible. All rooms offer a DSTV bouquet, bar fridge, heater, fan, electric blankets and coffee making facilities. Dundee is in the heart of the KZN battlefields district and offers a range of historical and outdoor activities.
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Beautiful five bedrooms with shower and toilet, TV, tea and coffee, swimming pool and sauna. Lovely breakfast and friendly owner. Internet and fax facilities. Secure parking. Close to battlefields. Isandlwana, Bloodriver. Ideal for reps as well as tourist on their way through Vryheid.
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Springbok Lodge, co-owned by John Smit and Percy Montgomery, this lodge is ideal for large groups and has fantastic conferencing facilities. Accommodating up to 32 guests in luxury tents, fully air-conditioned. Warm in winter, cool in summer. Excellent cuisine, Superb conferencing facilities for up to 50 delegates. Fully equipped with all required av equipment. Perfect Intimate Wedding venue.
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Lalalapha is localted in the central business district of the town of Glencoe, Kwazulu Natal Province. Leisure and tourism activities include golfing, fishing, game viewing, horse riding, scenic drives and cultural & historic tours.
Glencoe is located in the hart of the Anglo-Boer War Battlefields and is used as a base to visit the battlefields.
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The Lane Cottage is a newly renovated cottage, bordering on the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg World Heritage Site in the Central Drakensberg. The cottage is within walking distance to the Drakensberg Sun Hotel, and has magnificent views of the mountains, forest and lake.
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Thatched cottage on the edge of Bell Park Dam, offering high quality self-catering or bed & breakfast accommodation for up to six persons. Comprising three double bedrooms, three bathrooms, fully equipped kitchen, family room with log fire place, covered porch with braai facilities, garden and access to water for fishing, swimming, and boating.
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Rooms/Units from R850
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25% discount
see terms & conditions
Week night special! Stay 4 week nights (Monday to Thursday) out of school holidays and pay for 3 nights only.
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The Farmhouse Lodge is situated 3 minutes from the centre of the town of Newcastle in magnificent park like surroundings. We are an ideal stopover between Kruger Park and the KwaZulu-Natal Coast. A combination of family, double/twin- or single rooms, with air-conditioning, internet and DSTV. German spoken.
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