Aliwal North is a town in the Maloti-Drakensberg region of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. It is situated on the Orange River, about 70 km north of the border with Lesotho. The town is named after Sir Harry Smith, 1st Baronet of Aliwal on the Sutlej, who fought in the Anglo-Sikh wars.
The area around Aliwal North was originally inhabited by the San people. In 1849, the town was founded by Sir Harry Smith as a military outpost. The town grew rapidly, and by 1873 it had a population of 3,000. The town became a municipality in 1881.
The town is located in a fertile valley, and agriculture is the main economic activity. The area is also rich in minerals, and there are several gold and diamond mines in the vicinity.
The town is served by Aliwal North Airport.
Top 5 places to visit near Aliwal North
| Sr No | Name | Rating | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Orange Free State National botanical Garden | 4.5 | 2.3 km |
| 2. | Aliwal North Museum | 4.6 | 1.1 km |
| 3. | The Kalkfontein Dam | 4.7 | 4.5 km |
| 4. | The Nieu-Bethesda Dam | 4.8 | 7.6 km |
| 5. | The Driespruitfontein Dam | 4.9 | 12.3 km |
The top 5 places to visit near Aliwal North are:
1. The Valley of a Thousand Hills: This scenic valley is located just outside of Aliwal North and is home to a variety of wildlife.
2. The Drakensberg Mountains: These majestic mountains are located a short drive from Aliwal North and offer stunning views.
3. The Battlefields of South Africa: A number of historic battlefields are located in the vicinity of Aliwal North, making it the perfect place for history buffs.
4. The Cradle of Humankind: This World Heritage Site is home to a number of fossil-rich caves, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in palaeontology.
5. The Kruger National Park: This world-famous game reserve is located a short drive from Aliwal North and is home to an incredible array of wildlife.
How to travel to Aliwal North, South Africa?
There are a few ways to get to Aliwal North, South Africa. The most common way is by road. You can take a bus or a train from Johannesburg or Pretoria. The journey takes about 5-6 hours.
If you want to take the train, you can take the Shosholoza Meyl train from Johannesburg or Pretoria. The journey takes about 12 hours.
If you want to fly, you can take a flight from Johannesburg or Pretoria to Aliwal North. The journey takes about 1 hour.
Food choices available in Aliwal North, South Africa:
There is a wide variety of food available in Aliwal North, South Africa. The town is home to a number of restaurants and cafes that serve both local and international cuisine. There are also a number of grocery stores that sell a variety of food items.
Some of the local dishes that are available in Aliwal North include potjiekos (a type of stew), sosaties (kebabs), and braaivleis (barbecue). There are also a number of restaurants that serve international cuisine, such as Italian, Chinese, and Indian.
The town is also home to a number of bakeries and cafes that sell a variety of pastries and desserts. These include a number of traditional South African recipes, such as malva pudding and koeksisters.
One of the most famous foods in Aliwal North is the Aliwal Bite. This is a type of sausage that is made with a mixture of beef and pork. It is then smoked and cured, and has a unique flavor that is loved by many.
Must shop products in Aliwal North, South Africa:
Shopping in Aliwal North, South Africa can be a great experience for visitors and residents alike. There is a variety of shops and stores available, ranging from small local businesses to large international retailers. The town is also home to a number of markets, which sell everything from fresh produce to handmade goods.
One of the most popular shopping destinations in Aliwal North is the Aliwal Shopping Centre. This large complex houses a variety of stores, including clothing retailers, supermarkets, and a range of other businesses. There is also a food court where shoppers can grab a bite to eat.
Another popular shopping spot is the Aliwal North Market. This market sells a variety of goods, including fresh produce, clothes, and handicrafts. Visitors can also find a number of stalls selling traditional African food.
If you are looking for something a little bit different, Aliwal North is also home to a number of antique shops. These shops sell a range of items, including furniture, books, and other collectibles.
Whatever you are looking for, you are sure to find it in Aliwal North. Whether you are looking for a new outfit, some fresh produce, or a unique gift, the town has something to offer everyone.
Nightlife in Aliwal North, South Africa:
The nightlife in Aliwal North, South Africa is quite vibrant and there are many bars and clubs to enjoy. One of the most popular clubs in the city is the Aliwal Club, which is located in the heart of the city. This club is known for its great music and atmosphere, and it is also a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Other popular clubs in Aliwal North include the Voodoo Lounge, the Blue Moon Club, and the Safari Club. There are also many restaurants and cafes that stay open late, so you can always find something to do in Aliwal North.
All you need to know about weather
Aliwal North is a town located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The town is situated on the Orange River, 80km from the city of Bloemfontein and 100km from the city of Maseru in Lesotho. The town experiences a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cool winters. The average annual rainfall is 550mm. The area is famous for its hot springs, which are said to have medicinal properties.
Planning to visit Aliwal North? Check suitable time of the year:
The best time to visit Aliwal North, South Africa is during the summer months of December to February. This is when the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The town is also famous for its hot springs, which are a popular tourist attraction.
What is Aliwal North known for?
Aliwal North is a town in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The town is known for its hot springs, which attract visitors from all over the country. The springs are located in the Aliwal North Game Reserve, which is also home to a variety of wildlife, including antelope, zebra, and wildebeest.
Where and why Aliwal North is it situated where it is?
Aliwal North is situated on the southern banks of the Orange River in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The town was founded in 1849 by Sir Harry Smith, the Governor of the Cape Colony, and named after his wife, Lady Charlotte Aliwal. The town served as a supply depot for the British military during the Second Boer War (1899-1902) and played an important role in the conflict. Today, Aliwal North is a popular tourist destination due to its scenic location and its many historical and architectural landmarks.
Why is Aliwal North called Maletswai?
A little bit of history: Aliwal North is a town in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The town was originally called “Umzimkulu”, meaning “big river” in isiXhosa, but was renamed in 1849 to Aliwal North, after Sir Harry Smith’s victory at the Battle of Aliwal during the First Sikh War.
The name “Maletswai” is actually the name of the river that flows through Aliwal North. The name “Maletswai” comes from the Sotho language and means “river of sand”, referring to the sandy banks of the river.
What does Aliwal mean?
The name Aliwal is derived from the Arabic word for “one who is of high rank.”
Where is Aliwal North situated?
The town of Aliwal North is situated in the eastern part of the Free State province in South Africa. It is approximately 200km from the provincial capital, Bloemfontein. The town lies on the banks of the Orange River, which forms the border between South Africa and Lesotho. Aliwal North is a popular tourist destination due to its scenic location and its many historical and cultural attractions.
What is Beaufort West known for?
Beaufort West is a town in the Western Cape province of South Africa. The town is the administrative capital of the Beaufort West Local Municipality, and is the largest town in the Central Karoo District Municipality. Beaufort West is well known for being the birthplace of the famed explorer and adventurer Sir Francis Drake. The town is also home to the Beaufort West Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the history of the town and the surrounding area.
When was Aliwal North established?
The town of Aliwal North was established in 1849 as a trading post by a Scottish adventurer and trader named William Watt. The town was named after Aliwal Spa in Scotland, which was a popular destination for wealthy Victorians. The town grew rapidly and by the early 1900s, it was the largest town in the Orange Free State (now Free State Province in South Africa). Aliwal North is located on the banks of the Orange River, which forms the border between South Africa and Lesotho. The town is a popular stop for tourists travelling between Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Where does the Orange River begin and end?
The Orange River is a river in southern Africa. It is the longest river in the region and the fourth longest in the continent. The Orange River begins in the Drakensberg Mountains in Lesotho, where it is known as the Senqu. It flows westward through South Africa, forming the border between the country and Namibia. It then turns southward and flows into the Atlantic Ocean.
How big is Cradock?
Cradock is a town in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. It is the capital of the Inxuba Yethemba Local Municipality in the Sarah Baartman District Municipality. Cradock was founded in 1814 by the British under Colonel John Cradock. It was the site of the Battle of Cradock, the first major engagement of the First Boer War. Cradock is the birthplace of many famous South Africans, including former President Nelson Mandela. The town has a population of approximately 24,000 people.
Where is Joe gqabi municipality situated?
The Joe Gqabi Municipality is situated in the Eastern Cape Province, approximately halfway between East London and Port Elizabeth. It is one of eight municipalities in the Amatole District Municipality.
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References and Resources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/Aliwal North+South Africa
https://www.google.com/maps/Aliwal North+South Africa
