Tula Hills is rise gracefully from the savannahs of Gombe State, it stand as a breathtaking natural wonder and a deeply historical landmark. Located in Kaltungo Local Government Area, these hills form part of the expansive highland chain that shapes Gombe’s southern landscape, a place where beauty and bravery intersect.
The Fortress of the Tula People
The Tula Hills are more than a geographical feature, they are a stronghold of heritage and heroism. The hills were home to the Tula people, a historically resilient ethnic group known for their strong defense system and autonomous spirit. In the days of British expansion into the Northern Region, the Tula fiercely resisted colonial conquest, earning them the reputation of a proud, unconquered people for many years.
Perched high above the plains, the Tula community used the elevation of these hills for both defense and spiritual connection, with caves and ridges often serving as lookout points and refuge during times of strife.
Scenic Elevation and Adventure
The Tula Hills aren’t just historic — they’re visually stunning. Their rocky peaks, forested ridges, and panoramic views offer an excellent adventure for trekkers and photographers. From the top, you can spot surrounding villages, winding footpaths, and the lush countryside that stretches across Gombe’s southern borders.
The hills also house natural caves, ancient foot-carved stairways, and sacred spots used for traditional rites, making every step feel like a journey through time.
What Makes Tula Hills Unique?
- Cultural significance: Home to the proud Tula people, guardians of a centuries-old heritage
- Strategic location: Natural elevation provided resistance against early colonial intrusion
- Tourist appeal: Offers hiking, history, and breathtaking landscape photography opportunities
- Spiritual relevance: Still used for cultural ceremonies and traditional blessings
Visiting Tula Hills
- Location: Tula, Kaltungo LGA, Gombe State
- How to Get There: From Gombe city, a drive of about 1–2 hours toward Kaltungo takes you to Tula town
- Activities: Hiking, heritage tourism, cultural exploration, photography
Visitors are advised to engage local guides, both for safety and for deeper understanding of the stories embedded in the rocks and caves.
Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season (November to March): Trails are clearer and easier to hike
- Festival Periods (varies): Tula Day and traditional festivals highlight the hill’s cultural richness
Nearby Attractions
- Tangale Hills – Another scenic highland area in Gombe with cultural roots
- Kaltungo Snake Village – A unique herpetology center nearby
- Cham Valley – Known for its rolling terrain and ecological diversity
