Looking at the name Ilesa (Iléṣà),
you will think it is one of those rural, rustic and pastoral Nigerian
communities. However, a visit to the city will definitely make you
abdicate and purge yourself of such a perception. Although the pace of
the city cannot be compared with other vibrant Nigerian cities like
Lagos, Port Harcourt, Aba, and Kano, it has some measure of peace,
order, hospitality and warmth which are visibly absent in the
aforementioned city. This is what makes Ilesa stand out from others and
it is a destination every tourist must check out on a visit to Osun
state.
Ilesa, is a city located in Osun State, Southwest, Nigeria. People from Ilesa are referred to as Ijesas. The
towns which make up Ilesa include Erin Ijesa, Ipetu-Jesa, Ijebu-Jesa,
Esa-Oke, Ibokun, Ifewara, Ipole and Idominasi among others. Ilesa is a 6
hours drive from Lagos. It is a day’s journey if you leave early.
Jovago.com, Africa’s No 1 hotel booking portal shares how you can
experience and negotiate the home the of the popular Olumirin Waterfall.
Top three sites
The Olumirin Waterfall
This is the most popular tourist destination in Ilesa. Any tourist visiting the city is most likely to visit the Olumirin Waterfall. The
Waterfall is located in Erin Ijesa, one of the local divisions of
Ilesa. The waterfall has 7 layers from which it cascades from and
visitors only need to pay N500 to gain entry. Climbing the Waterfall is
a different experience. Although it is enthralling, it takes only the
strong and the patient to climb. If you are able t get to the 7th layer,
you will have a panoramic view of the locale. However, it is a whole
different challenge coming down. Importantly, do not forget to enmesh
your whole being in the water which is said to have spiritual
significance. And if you want to really enjoy your time at the
Waterfall, arrive early.
Kiriji war Museum
The
Kiriji war was sour phase in the history of the Ijesas. It was a war
between two powerful Yoruba groups which share the same lineage. They
are the Western Yorubas (Ibadan and its allies) and Eastern Yorubas
(Ijesas and Ekitis’). According to findings, the war was as a result of
the crash of the Oyo Empire as well as the domination of the Ibadan
soldiers despite the collapse of the Oyo Empire. This led to bitter
rivalry and eventual war. The war lasted for 16 years. Thus in order not
to forget this important part of Ilesa history, a museum was
established. This is a museum featuring the ancient weapons and history
behind the Kiriji war.
Iwude festival
For
11 days in December, persons who trace their heritage to Ijesaland,
return home to celebrate the Iwude festival. The festival showcases the
culture, dance, music and tradition of the people. It also features game
and a procession which affords the
Where to eat
In
the center of the city, there are restaurants where you can have the
best of Nigerian cuisines. Just ask the locals and one of the
restaurants they will direct you to is The African Restaurant. Other places to eat include Bukateria, and Royal restaurants among others.
Where to shop
You
may not find the high-end shopping malls in Ilesa but the small scale
shops can suffice. Some of the spots where you can shop include Format Ventures, Phonson Boutique, Adebambo Tayo stores, and Brainfield shopping mall. You can also visit the popular Atakumosa Market to shop.
Where to sleep
With
Jovago.com; you do not need to worry about where to sleep in Ilesa. You
simply walk into your hotel, settle your bills and relax. Some of the
hotels on your Africa’s no 1 hotel booking portal include Spring Hill Hotel, GoldCity Hotel, Garrett Hotel, Royal Park International Hotel and Heis Hotel.
Fun fact
Ilesa is the home of the Olumirin Waterfall.
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