Do you intend to visit Imo state or research on the top places to visit in the state? This piece covers the top places to visit in Imo state and some exciting activities you can engage in while in the state.
Imo State also called the ‘Eastern Heartland’ is a state in the southeastern region of Nigeria. The state has its capital as Owerri and is popular for its rich cultural heritage. This is reflected in their mode of dressing, dance, festivals, and arts and crafts.
Owerri, the capital, is a beautiful city with numerous relaxation centers and places of attraction where residents and visitors can have fun. In addition, it is one of the cities in Nigeria with the highest number of exotic hotels, bars, and nightclubs. It’s worthy to note that this state is amongst Nigerian states with the most expensive dowry.
Here is a list of top places of attraction to visit in Imo State.
1. Oguta Lake, Oguta.
Oguta Lake is one of the largest natural lakes in Nigeria and was formerly used as a port for exporting palm products.
This lake, located in Oguta, is a source of water and protein (fish) to the town. It divides the town into two (Oguta 1 and Oguta 2) and unlike most natural lakes, its water is clean and fresh. The lake has two colors that never mix with each other.
The lake has a resort center, Oguta Lake Holiday Resort — the perfect place for relaxation. You can hang out and have fun with your friends and families at the lake and resort.
Fun things to do at Oguta lake include:
· Taking a cruise on the lake.
· Fishing
· Swimming.
· Having a picnic at the lake bank.
· Playing Golf.
This tourist attraction in Oguta is an ideal place to refresh and fall in love with nature. All these and more are reasons why Oguta Lake is a popular tourist attraction.
2. Imo Palm Plantation
Imo Palm Plantation is located on a large expanse of land between Amaofor and Egbema towns, on both sides of the Owerri/Port Harcourt expressway. The palm plantation was a significant source of foreign exchange before the discovery of crude oil.
The sway of trees, astonishing same-sized palm kernels, gentle feel of the breeze, and the view of the plantation from a distance is breathtaking. When you take a stroll on the plantation, you will be marveled at how such a feat was achieved.
3. Assumpta Cathedral, Owerri.
Driving along Assumpta avenue in Owerri, you can’t miss this architectural masterpiece — The Assumpta Cathedral. It is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese in Owerri and is regarded as one of the biggest Catholic churches in Nigeria and West Africa.
The cathedral, which the avenue is named after, is built to accommodate about 3,000 worshippers.
The distinguishing feature about the cathedral is that the architectural styles of the building are similar to Renaissance ecclesiastical. The church is designed in the shape of a Greek cross. It has four naves of equal length spread in opposite directions.
This is a place you should visit if you are a lover of medieval architecture and spiritual grounds.
4. Ngwu Natural Spring Water
Ngwu spring water, also referred to as Iyi Umugara, is a mysterious natural spring water in Ngwu. This natural water is mysterious because it flows without ceasing and the water’s volume increases during the dry season, unlike other natural water bodies.
A trip to this natural spring in Nkwere Local Government Area is something you won’t forget in a hurry. From the narrow pathway to the flight of stairs and forest thickness, the water body has everything to wow you.
The water is crystal clear and flows to the Urashi river which originates from Dikenafai, Imo State.
5. Mbari Cultural and Arts Center
Mbari cultural and arts center is an open house museum that houses cultural artefacts and sculptures that tell the story of the history and heritage of the Igbo tribe. Located in Ikenegbu, Owerri, this is a location lovers of history and archeology should visit. I recommend you take a camera with you when visiting.
6. Rolling Hills, Okigwe
Do you wish to enjoy an adventurous night outdoors, without fear of being attacked by animals? Do you wish to hike or enjoy a lovely picnic alone or with friends and family in Imo State?
Then you should head to rolling hills Okigwe.
This wonderful tourist attraction is an expanse of land covered with lush green vegetation. The vegetation covers the hills from ground to top and gives a breathtaking view you can’t trade for anything.
From up the hills, you can view the town and its inhabitants and enjoy the smell of fresh air.
I advise you to visit there at night so you can enjoy the array of stars at night and the sight of the cloud and sunrise at dawn.
I highly recommend you go with a telescope if you have one.
7. National Museum, Owerri
The history of Nigeria can’t be complete without the story of the Nigerian civil war. The museum, which is situated in Orlu, tells the story of the rich history of Igboland for all to admire and marvel. Filled with various huts that house relics, the National Museum tells stories of the war through paintings, sculptures, and artefacts. Besides stories of the war, the museum also houses historical items from before and after independence.
These artefacts include currencies and items that reflect the early settlers’ way of life. If you’re looking to have a feel of what life in Nigeria was before now, then you should visit this museum in Orlu, Imo State.
8. Owerri Zoo, Nekede
Owerri zoo is sited on a huge expanse of land in Nekede, a town in Owerri. The zoo has many wildlife animals like lions, monkeys, chimpanzees, ostriches, reptiles of various kinds, and over 1000 species of birds chirping beautifully on the trees.
The zoo is open to tourists from 8 am-6 pm and is a perfect way to escape from the city’s noise. A tour of the zoo gives you the opportunity to learn what these animals are called in the Igbo language.
Owerri Zoo, Nekede is a beauty to behold. You sure want to visit with a camera to enable you to capture lasting memories.
9. Palm Beach Holiday Resort, Awo-Omamma
Palm Beach Holiday Resort is located in Awo-Omama, Imo State. The resort is filled with palm trees and beautiful spots and has facilities like a swimming pool and spa. There are also many outdoor games you can play with friends and family.
The holiday resort is open for visits, and you can enjoy it most when you visit with family, friends, or spouse. If you wish to spend quality time with loved ones while enjoying the beauty of nature, then the resort is a place to visit.
When visiting, ensure you are comfortably dressed to have fun.
10. Iyi Ogidi Spring
Iyi Ogidi Spring is located in Amaifeke, Imo State. The water from the spring bubbles up from five separate channels in a spot. One of the amazing things about the spring is the pathway leading to it. The pathway is a flight of stairs that you have to climb to and from the spring.
Water gotten from the spring is okay for drinking, and various domestic activities.
The spring’s pathway is ideal for hiking, and sure you can take pictures in front of the spring.
Source: medium.com