Ghana Travel Guide

– A Complete Research-Based Journey Manual for Indian Travellers

Ghana, often described as the “Gateway to West Africa,” is a nation where golden beaches meet historic castles, where vibrant markets blend with ancient kingdoms, and where warm hospitality welcomes every visitor with open arms. For travellers from India—especially those planning their journey from Kolkata or Delhi—Ghana presents a destination filled with cultural depth, natural beauty, and remarkable heritage.

This comprehensive travel guide offers a deeply research-based, highly descriptive, and structured overview of Ghana, covering every essential aspect: major tourist attractions, important travel distances, visa procedures, embassy information, how to reach from India, accommodation options, and the best time to visit. Each section has been created to suit travellers seeking a clear, authoritative, and well-organised guide suitable for both planning and publishing.

Overview of Ghana

Located along the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa, Ghana is known for its stable democracy, friendly environment, and thriving cultural heritage. The country is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage forts, wildlife reserves, cocoa plantations, palm-fringed Atlantic beaches, and the historical legacy of the Ashanti Kingdom. Accra, the lively capital city, blends African tradition with modern infrastructure, while the countryside reveals serene landscapes and age-old communities.

For Indian tourists, Ghana is gradually becoming a preferred travel destination due to easy connectivity, a straightforward visa process, and opportunities to explore African culture in a safe and structured environment. Whether you are interested in history, wildlife, festivals, or local crafts, Ghana offers a deeply enriching travel experience.

Major Tourist Attractions in Ghana

1. Accra – The Vibrant Capital City

Accra is the beating heart of Ghana, a city where modern architecture stands side by side with traditional markets and colonial-era buildings. Travellers can explore cultural institutions, beaches, art studios, and bustling neighbourhoods. The city offers an excellent introduction to Ghanaian culture and serves as the principal gateway for international arrivals.

• Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park: Dedicated to Ghana’s first President, this memorial complex showcases the country’s journey toward independence.
• Independence Square: One of the largest public squares in the world, symbolising the nation’s freedom.
• Labadi Beach: A lively coastline popular for music, dance, and local cuisine.
• Makola Market: A traditional market offering textiles, beads, handmade crafts, and Ghanaian fashion.

Distance: Kotoka International Airport to central Accra: approx. 7–9 km.

2. Cape Coast Castle – UNESCO World Heritage Site

Cape Coast Castle stands as one of the most significant historical structures in West Africa. Once part of the Atlantic slave trade network, the castle is now a deeply reflective museum that narrates centuries of African history, colonial rule, and resilience.

Distance from Accra: approx. 150 km (3–3.5 hours by road).

3. Kakum National Park – Canopy Walk Adventure

Situated close to Cape Coast, Kakum National Park is renowned for its rainforest ecosystem and the iconic canopy walkway suspended high above the forest floor. It is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

• Canopy suspension bridges
• Native wildlife species
• Guided nature walks

Distance from Cape Coast: approx. 30 km.

4. Kumasi – The Ashanti Cultural Capital

Kumasi, located in the Ashanti Region, offers a fascinating window into the traditions and heritage of the Ashanti Kingdom. The city is known for its crafts villages, royal palace museum, and bustling cultural markets.

• Manhyia Palace Museum: Historic palace and royal museum.
• Kejetia Market: One of West Africa’s largest open-air markets.
• Bonwire Kente Weaving Village: Famous for traditional Kente cloth weaving.

Distance from Accra: approx. 250 km (4.5–5.5 hours by road).

5. Mole National Park – Wildlife and Safari

Mole National Park is Ghana’s largest wildlife reserve, offering safari experiences with elephants, antelopes, monkeys, and thousands of bird species. The park’s Savannah landscapes create a serene backdrop ideal for wildlife photography.

Distance from Accra: approx. 700 km (10–12 hours by road or 1-hour flight to Tamale + 2–3 hours by road).

6. Lake Volta – One of the World’s Largest Man-Made Lakes

Spanning over 8,500 square kilometers, Lake Volta is a breathtaking water body ideal for scenic boat cruises, fishing experiences, and lakeside relaxation. It plays an important role in Ghana’s hydropower generation.

Distance from Accra: Varies by region, but the nearest access point is approx. 90–120 km.

7. Elmina Castle – A Monument of Heritage

Located close to Cape Coast, Elmina Castle is another UNESCO World Heritage site that preserves the architectural legacy of European colonisation in West Africa. It is one of the oldest European structures in sub-Saharan Africa.

Distance from Cape Coast: approx. 13 km.

8. Busua Beach & Butre Beach – Coastal Bliss

In the Western Region, Busua and Butre beaches offer golden sands, calm waters, and coastal beauty. These beaches are ideal for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing, making them popular for leisure travellers.

Distance from Accra: approx. 220–230 km.

How to Reach Ghana from India

From Kolkata

• Kolkata → Doha → Accra (Qatar Airways)
• Kolkata → Dubai → Accra (Emirates + Africa World Airlines)
• Kolkata → Addis Ababa → Accra (Air India + Ethiopian Airlines)

Approximate travel duration: 15–20 hours depending on layover.

From Delhi

• Delhi → Addis Ababa → Accra (Ethiopian Airlines)
• Delhi → Dubai → Accra (Emirates + partner airline)
• Delhi → Doha → Accra (Qatar Airways)

Approximate travel duration: 13–18 hours depending on layover.

Ghana Visa Guide for Indian Travellers

Indian citizens travelling to Ghana must obtain a visa prior to their departure. The process is structured, formal, and typically requires submission of essential identification documents, travel details, and financial proofs.

Types of Visa Available

• Tourist Visa
• Business Visa
• Transit Visa
• Multiple-Entry Visa

Documents Required

• Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
• Completed visa application form
• Two recent passport-sized photographs
• Confirmed hotel booking
• Flight itinerary
• Proof of financial capability
• Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate (mandatory)

Where to Apply – Ghana High Commission in India

Travelers must submit their applications to the official diplomatic mission:

Ghana High Commission, New Delhi
Address: EP-31, Dr. S. Radhakrishnan Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi – 110021

Please note: Processing times may vary. It is advisable to apply well ahead of your travel date.

Visa Processing Time

• Standard Processing: Approx. 7–10 working days
• Express Processing: Available at additional charges

Accommodation Options in Ghana

Ghana offers a broad selection of accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to budget stays. Below are the major categories across key tourist regions (without contact numbers as per requirement).

1. Accra

• Premium seaside resorts along the Atlantic coast
• Luxury hotels in Airport City and Osu
• Mid-range business hotels near city centre
• Budget guesthouses and serviced apartments

2. Cape Coast & Elmina

• Beachfront boutique hotels
• Nature-friendly eco-lodges
• Comfortable mid-range resorts

3. Kumasi

• Cultural-themed hotels near the royal palace
• Modern city business hotels
• Budget guesthouses

4. Mole National Park

• Lodges overlooking savannah landscapes
• Eco-stay cottages near the safari gate

5. Busua & Western Region

• Beachfront surf lodges
• Family-style coastal resorts

Best Time to Visit Ghana

The ideal time to visit Ghana is during the dry season, when weather conditions are most favourable for sightseeing, safaris, beach activities, and cultural exploration.

• November to March: Peak travel season, pleasant climate, excellent for wildlife and outdoor travel.
• April to June: Mixed weather with occasional rainfall, suitable for budget travellers.
• July to October: Rainy season; some destinations may have limited accessibility.

Internal Transport and Major Distances

Ghana’s transportation network is wide and well-connected through highways, domestic flights, and intercity buses. Below are some useful travel distances:

• Accra to Cape Coast – approx. 150 km
• Accra to Kumasi – approx. 250 km
• Accra to Mole National Park (via Tamale) – approx. 700 km
• Cape Coast to Kakum National Park – approx. 30 km
• Cape Coast to Elmina – approx. 13 km
• Accra to Busua – approx. 220–230 km

Conclusion

Ghana remains an exceptionally rewarding travel destination for Indian tourists, offering layers of history, nature, and culture rarely experienced elsewhere. With its inviting beaches, heritage castles, wildlife-rich forests, and vibrant urban centres, the country provides a rich and immersive African experience. Clear visa procedures, expanding flight connectivity, and world-class accommodations further enhance the travel convenience for visitors from Kolkata, Delhi, and other Indian cities.

Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, cultural learning, photography opportunities, or simply a journey filled with unforgettable landscapes, Ghana stands ready with open arms. Through careful planning and the insights provided in this guide, travellers can enjoy a seamless, well-informed, and thoroughly memorable journey into the heart of West Africa.