Ladysmith

Ladysmith is situated almost midway between Johannesburg and Durban and is the commercial centre for the surrounding farming area. It was a staging post for fortune hunters on their way to find their fortunes in the Transvaal during the gold rush but is more well-known as one of the iconic centres of the Anglo-Boer War. Famously, Ladysmith fell under British siege in October 1899 and the battle for its occupation lasted until March 1900.

Interestingly Mohandos Ghandi spent some time here as a stretcher bearer for the British forces during the Anglo-Boer War. There is a statue of Mahatma at the Lord Vishnu Temple. There is also a spectacular Sufi Mosque located just outside the town.

Ladysmith’s, Joseph Shabalala, the leader of the world famous choir, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, has definitely placed the name of the town on the world stage .

Today it is a convenient stop-over for travellers on their way to Durban or Johannesburg as well as being a gateway town to the World Heritage site of the Ukhahlamba-Drakensberg Park. The peaks of the Drakensberg mountains form a beautiful backdrop to this town. Nearby attractions are the Spioenkop Nature Reserve and the Spioenkop Anglo-Boer battle site.

Getting there: From Durban, take the N3 going to Ladysmith.

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