Thika

·         Be wary of the touts.

·         Do not entertain the beggars.

·         If a particular place says, ‘no photography’, adhere to it.

·         Do not film without permission.

·         Do not click pictures of people without their permission.

·         In case, you find something really attractive in a religious place and wish to click it, seek permissions from the local in charge of the place.

·         Do not get involved in any type of fights with anyone.

·         Never argue or harm the locals.

·         Do not litter around in the place.

·         Acquire sufficient information about the place before traveling to it.

·         Do not eat street food unless you are certain about its quality.

·         Drink only bottled mineral water.

·         In case there is a particular brand of water bottle that you haven’t heard of, do not buy it.

·         Check for the seal before buying the bottle.

·         Dress appropriately.

·         Nudity is strictly prohibited here.

·         Do not leave your important documents in the hotel room.

·         Enquire about the room safe before you book a hotel.

·         Do not book a room in the hotel that is located on a secluded place.

·         Do not travel to an isolated path during the night hours.

·         Do not carry cash more than what you’ll need. 

The legal age for drinking in Thika is 18 years. 

Touted as a very popular historical site in Thika district, this place has been historically named after a revered giant fig tree. It is said that this tree had a diameter of almost 15 feet. Legend follows that in the ancient times, a legendary seer, by the name of Mugo wa Kibiro, use to sit here at the base of the tree and make prophecies. These gardens can be accesses easily via the Mugo Kibiru road. Locals have based several beliefs around the existence of this tree as well, such as the symbolism of the falling of the tree with the fall of British rule in Kenya. A small fee is charged for visiting the precincts. It is indeed a great place to see in Thika.

Basically a resting ground for the brave soldiers who departed in the World War 2, this memorial park was laid aside by the then prime minister. The park was inaugurated in the year 1967 and locals have fondly come to call the park as ‘The Chopsticks’, which comes directly from the symbol of the 61 metre tall memorials that comprise of four columns, hence representing four different races. These are joined at the base, signifying the unity of all the races. Every year on 15 February, special memorial services are held at this park. The park remains open for tourists from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Tourist places adjoining the memorial park are the Esplanade Park and Fort Canning Park. You simply cannot miss out on this extra ordinary attraction of Thika.  

Among other places to see in Thika district is the popular Thika Dam. The dam lies on the Thika river near Ndakaini, which is a few kilometres north of Nairobi. With a storage capacity of over 70 million cubic meters, the dam supplies water for drinking purposes. Nairobi has suffered water shortage issues in the past and this dam has come as a relief to the residents here. Many people come here for sightseeing as the views around the dam are splendid, to say the least. 

Thika is quite popular for its agricultural activities. Vast acres of land spread in this industrial town, to make Thika an agricultural hotspot. Many farm produces from Thika are exponentially popular. Exports from Thika are marketed worldwide. One of the most popular farm produces are the pineapples of Thika. The natural beauty surrounding the farms are breath taking. Tourists are advised to give these places a visit for sure. The length and breadth of these farms runs as far as the eye can see. If you really want to relish the natural tastes and delights of the farm produce of Thika, you can actually stop by these farms and ask for fruit juices and real fruits from the farmers for stock. Make your stay in Thika a memorable one by stopping by these remarkable and memorable sports in the district. You may even capture the scenic views of the farm in your camera. This makes the farm a great sight for photo and nature lovers. 

If you are a on a holiday with your better half, to Thika, then taking them to the most popular hotel in this district should be a must do activity for nightlife experience. This hotel is the best recommended place to go to for a thrilling experience and savouring delightful cuisines. What sets this place apart from all others is the delightful sight of the converging rivers, Thika and Chania, which form a waterfall. There are arrangements to walk down via stairs to the base of the waterfall as well. The hotel began operation many years back from now and holds historical relevance for visitors as well. 

Among other things to do in Thika, visiting the pork centre in the district is a must experience activity. People from all over Thika who come on tours, converge at this centre to treat their taste buds to the relishing tastes and flavours of locally prepared pork dishes. Although you may try any dish of your choice, the ‘choma’ and ‘fry pork’ are a speciality of this place. The serving size is something which will leave you delighted. Spend a nice lazy day at the centre for an exciting adventure.

One of the most fantastic yet authentic ways to muddle in the laps of nature, is by visiting the Fourteen Falls. Overlooking the magnificent Kilimambogo hills in the lap of nature, the falls offer a vivid and mesmerising view of the bounty of nature at this spot. The fast flowing streams of water make a thundering sound here, enough to rattle the adventurer in you. Another pleasant sight at this spot is the collection of varied variety of bird species. Those of you who are avid bird watchers, will find solace in sitting in a relaxing state here. Fun activities included in this place are jump and dive from the top of the waterfall.

Decorating the nightlife scene in the Thika district are adventurous night clubs, a place where you can spend a good time with your friends and family. Engage in dancing activities or drink to your heart’s content. The best clubs to be at during the night time are Image and porkies, recommended as per travellers. Enjoy quality music and the company of a great crowd. 

Thika is subtly famous for its sculptures and deep rooted traditions in artistic rituals. When travelling to this district, it is worthwhile to explore the majority of these arts and how they are spread around every nook and corner of the city. People in Thika take the practice of making sculptures quite seriously and it is owing to the dedication with which they preach and practice this art form, that it is still alive in its genuine form in the city.