Visit Ashanti Region
Ashanti Region: Complete 2025 Travel And Cultural Guide
The Ashanti Region is one of Ghana’s most vibrant and culturally rich areas, famed for its deep history, colorful traditions, and warm hospitality. Known as the cultural heartbeat of Ghana, this region offers visitors a fascinating blend of royal heritage, bustling city life, and scenic landscapes.
Whether you’re wandering through Kumasi’s lively markets, admiring the intricate Adinkra symbols at Ntonso, or exploring historical sites that tell the story of Ghana’s independence struggle, the Ashanti Region is a must-visit destination in 2025.
Location and Geography
Situated in the south-central part of Ghana, the Ashanti Region spans approximately 24,389 square kilometers. Its capital city, Kumasi, lies about 250 kilometers from Accra. The region is characterized by lush forests, fertile lands, and the iconic Lake Bosomtwe — Ghana’s only natural lake formed by a meteorite impact.
Whether you’re wandering through Kumasi’s lively markets, admiring the intricate Adinkra symbols at Ntonso, or exploring historical sites that tell the story of Ghana’s independence struggle, the Ashanti Region is a must-visit destination in 2025.
Significance in Ghana’s History
The Ashanti Region was once the seat of the powerful Ashanti Kingdom, a pre-colonial empire that influenced much of West Africa. Today, it remains a symbol of resilience, unity, and cultural pride.
Whether you’re wandering through Kumasi’s lively markets, admiring the intricate Adinkra symbols at Ntonso, or exploring historical sites that tell the story of Ghana’s independence struggle, the Ashanti Region is a must-visit destination in 2025.
History of the Ashanti Region
Colonial Era and Independence
The Ashanti Kingdom fiercely resisted British colonization, engaging in several wars known as the Anglo-Ashanti Wars. Kumasi became a focal point during these struggles, and the stories of leaders like Yaa Asantewaa still inspire Ghanaian pride.
Modern-Day Ashanti Culture
Today, the Ashanti Region blends ancient traditions with modern developments. Visitors can experience royal ceremonies at the Manhyia Palace, while also enjoying Kumasi’s growing urban attractions.
Kumasi: The Heart of the Ashanti Region
Overview of Kumasi City
Known as the Garden City of West Africa, Kumasi is the cultural and economic hub of the Ashanti Region. It’s famous for its flower-lined streets, vibrant markets, and strong royal heritage.
Must-Visit Places in Kumasi Ashanti
Manhyia Palace Museum
Kejetia Market
Prempeh II Jubilee Museum
Top Ashanti Region Tourist Sites
Bonwire Kente Weaving Village
Lake Bosomtwe
Ntonso Adinkra Village
Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary & Bird Reserve
Historical Sites in Ashanti Region
Anokye Krom (Okomfo Anokye Site)
Fort Kumasi
Yaa Asantewaa Museum
Ntonso Adinkra Village Kumasi
History of Adinkra Symbols
Adinkra symbols are traditional visual motifs representing proverbs, historical events, and values. Originating from the Ashanti people, they are often stamped on cloth for special occasions.
Craft Workshops and Cultural Experiences
At Ntonso Village, visitors can participate in hands-on workshops to learn Adinkra stamping using natural dyes and traditional techniques.
Ashanti Festivals and Cultural Events
The Ashanti Region bursts to life with powerful royal festivals that connect the past with the present. These aren’t just events — they’re living traditions where history, rhythm, and reverence collide. If you want to witness Ghana’s soul in motion, time your visit to one of these sacred occasions:
Akwasidae Festival — Royal Power and Ancestral Honor
Kumasi — Every 6 Weeks at Manhyia Palace
Held every six weeks according to the Akan calendar, Akwasidae is a sacred royal celebration where the Asantehene (king of the Ashanti) appears in full ceremonial regalia. Surrounded by gold ornaments, talking drums, and traditional chiefs, the festival honors ancestors and affirms the cultural identity of the Ashanti people.
Visitors can witness:
The royal procession of the Asantehene
Traditional drumming, dancing, and libations
Public homage from citizens and international dignitaries
Yaa Asantewaa Festival — The Spirit of Resistance Lives On
Ejisu — Celebrated Annually
This powerful festival honors Queen Mother Yaa Asantewaa, the legendary warrior who led the Ashanti rebellion against British colonial forces in 1900. Held in her hometown of Ejisu, the event features dramatic reenactments, storytelling, and cultural performances that keep her fierce spirit alive.
Expect to experience:
Traditional war dances and durbars
Educational exhibits on Yaa Asantewaa’s life
Women-led processions and rituals
Ashanti Yam Festival — Gratitude Through Food and Culture
Various Towns — September to October
A deeply symbolic harvest festival that celebrates the first yam of the season. The Yam Festival is a time of abundance, storytelling, and spiritual offerings. Chiefs, elders, and families gather to give thanks to the gods and ancestors for a fruitful harvest.
Festival features:
Traditional drumming, horn-blowing, and ceremonial cooking
Offerings of yam to stools and ancestors
Local delicacies and open-air markets
Adae Kese
Celebrated every few years, Adae Kese is one of the grandest Ashanti festivals, attracting chiefs, royals, and tourists from around the world.
Traditional Ashanti Cuisine
Local Dishes You Must Try
- Fufu with light soup — a staple served with goat, chicken, or fish.
- Kontomire stew — made from cocoyam leaves and palm oil.
- Kokonte — a cassava-based dish served with spicy soup.
How to Get to the Ashanti Region
By Road
Regular buses and private cars connect Kumasi to Accra and other regions. The journey by road takes around 4–5 hours.
By Air
Kumasi International Airport offers daily flights from Accra and other major cities.
Best Time to Visit the Ashanti Region
The dry season from November to March is the best time to explore, as roads are more accessible and festivals are in full swing.
Plan Your Trip To Kumasi
The Ashanti Region pulses with cultural energy year-round — from sacred royal rites to vibrant community parades. If you want to truly experience Ashanti heritage, timing your visit with a festival makes all the difference.
→ 🔗 Discover Festivals in Ashanti
Use our Festival Calendar by Month to find events happening during your travel dates. Signature highlights include:
Akwasidae Festival – held every 6 weeks at the Manhyia Palace
Yaa Asantewaa Festival – an annual tribute to Ghana’s iconic warrior queen
These events offer rare access to Ashanti royal traditions — think golden stools, ancestral libations, talking drums, and regal processions.
Suggested Day Tours in the Ashanti Region
Travel Tips for Tourists
Where to Stay - Hotels In Kumasi
Whether you’re here for a quick cultural immersion or a festival weekend, location matters. These hand-picked stays are not only traveler-approved — they’re also close to major tourist sites like Manhyia Palace, Kejetia Market, and the Kumasi Cultural Centre.
Golden Tulip Kumasi City – ★★★★☆
Veronique Heights – ★★★★☆
Paradise Resort – ★★★☆☆
Where to Eat in Ashanti Region
Ike’s Café & Grill (Cultural Centre)
Starbites Asokwa
The View Bar & Grill
Tasty Queen
Ready to explore the soul of Ghana?
LetVisitGhana’s Ashanti tours are curated for depth, connection, and culture.
