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Mauritius
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| The Official name of Mauritius is actually the Republic of Mauritius (French: République de Maurice). Mauritius is an island nation off the coast of Africa in the southwest Indian Ocean, about 900 kilometres east of Madagascar. The country covers an area of 1865 kilometres, with 330 kilometres of coastline. Mauritius is 45 kilometres in width and 65 kilometres in length. In addition to the island of Mauritius; the republic includes the islands of St. Brandon, Rodrigues and the Agalega Islands. Mauritius is part of the Mascarene Islands, with the French island of Réunion 200 kilometers to the southwest. Travelling time from South Africa is approximately 4 hours.[back to top] |
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| Situated near the Tropic of Capricorn, Mauritius has the advantage of a subtropical climate. There are two seasons: Summer (November to April) with an average temperature of 30º and winter (May to September) when the temperatures vary from 17º to 24º. The period between these two distinct seasons (September to November) is a pleasant period with temperatures between 25º and 28º. Mauritius is also fortunate in that it does not have a monsoon climate. There is however a Cyclone season which generally occurs between January and March. Tropical cyclones are a common occurrence in Mauritius and tend to disrupt the weather for only about four days per year, bringing a lot of rain. December through to March is the best season for diving, when the waters are at their clearest. June through to August is the best surfing season and October through to April is excellent for big game fishing, when the large predators feed close to shore.[back to top] |
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| Passengers over 18 years of age may import the following duty-free items: 250 grams of tobacco (including cigars and cigarettes), 1 litre of spirits, 2 litres of wine, ale or beer, one quarter litre of Eau de Toilette and perfume not exceeding 100 ml. A plant import permit must be obtained from the Ministry of Agriculture, prior to the introduction of plants and plant material including cuttings, flowers, bulbs, fresh fruits, vegetables and seeds. It is prohibited to introduce sugarcane and parts thereof, soil micro-organisms and invertebrate animals. All imported animals including animal products need an import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture and a health certificate from the country of origin. Drug trafficking is illegal and carries very heavy penalties. Firearms and ammunition need import permits and must be declared on arrival.[back to top] |
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Balaclava Ruins - North
The ruins of the old Balaclava estate with the sea walls are available for the discerning tourist to view.
Black River Gorge, South West
This national park of 6,574 hectares was created in 1994 for the protection of Mauritius remaining native forests. Visitors can enjoy magnificent landscapes, with endemic plants and rare bird species. A trail leads from the Pétrin information centre to an area of typical plant life and to a conservation area.
Casela Bird Park - West
Situated in the Rivière Noire district, the bird park stretches over 25 hectares and contains more than 140 bird species from all five continents. Other attractions include fish ponds, tigers, tortoises, monkeys, deer and orchids. The Mauritius Kestrel is one of the worlds rarest birds. In the early 1970s the entire population of Kestrels had been reduced to only 4 specimens thus making it the rarest bird in the world. This is the only bird of prey in Mauritius and is still the rarest falcon in the world. The Pink Pigeon is the worlds rarest pigeon found in the island. It is restricted to the wet upland forests in the southwest corner of Mauritius. This Mauritian pink pigeon is one of the main attractions of the Casela gardens. The Echo Parakeet is the worlds rarest parrot and is indigenous to Mauritius. This is the only parrot which is endemic to Mauritius. Promising management techniques have been successfully used to save the worlds rarest parrot from becoming endangered.
(Telephone: (230) 452-0693/4)
Chamarel, South West
A winding road leads from Case Noyale village to the coloured earths of Chamarel: an undulating landscape of different and contrasting shades of colours. The coloured earth of Chamarel is possibly the oddest sight on the island. The different shades of blue, green, red and yellow are apparently the result of the erosion of the volcanic ash. The neighbouring waterfalls of Chamarel rise from the moors and the native plant life. The site possesses a rare beauty. Some Table dhôtes have been recently created in the Chamarel Village where you can enjoy the taste of typical Mauritian cuisine.
Curepipe, Central Inland
The town of Curepipe owes its size and prominence to the malaria epidemic of 1867, during which thousands of people fled mosquito infested Port Louis for healthier, higher ground. The bulk of Franco-Mauritians live in outlying communities and come into Curepipe mainly to shop.
With the flavour of an English market town, Curepipe is the centre of the island's tea and model-ship building industries and the best place to scatter your money. The town itself is worth a quick visit at most as the surrounding countryside has a more universal appeal.
Cuisine
In an island where people originate from a wide variety of places, the local cuisine is a testament to the influence of this melting pot. This produces remarkable results: in Mauritius, you can travel to all corners of the globe without leaving the table
Mauritian cooking is in a class of its own: it is a combination influenced by people of different cultures and cooking traditions. Mauritian people are adventurous with food, and are perfectly happy to eat Creole, Chinese, Indian or Muslim food.
Mauritian cuisine is proud of its past but is still firmly rooted in the contemporary world. A few leading chefs such as Paul Bocuse, the Trois Gros brothers and Michel Ducasse have paid a visit to the island and have thus played a part in the creation of this top-quality cuisine.
You can eat at the «Spoon des îles», (One&Only Le Saint Géran) of Alain Ducasse, where cooking is an art. However, during your holidays do not deny yourself the pleasure of eating local food, at a table dhôte or in the various specialised restaurants. Do not hesitate to try the «dholl purri» (wheat pancake stuffed with dholl and served with a tomato sauce), the «farata», the «gâteaux piments» or the « samosa ».
Domaine du Chasseur, South East
Nestling in the Anse Jonchée hills, the Domaine des Grand Bois is a splendid hunting ground for a great variety of animals, covering an area of 900 hectares. Stags, monkeys and boars live amidst the luxuriant vegetation of the hillside. Many endangered species of birds, including the kestrel can also be spotted here. Energetic tourists can choose walks varying from 5 to 15 kilometres where they can admire rare and protected species of trees. Take the opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal of venison and seafood whilst absorbing the beautiful natural surroundings at the restaurant which enjoys panoramic sea views. (Contact: Telephone (230) 634-5011, Fax: (230) 634-5261)
Euréka, Central Inland
Euréka is a Creole house dating back to colonial times. It is situated in Moka, in the centre of the island, and is one of the best preserved examples of colonial architecture. Beautiful, gracious, cherished through generations by its inhabitants, this house is a true testimony of the past. Surrounded by greenery and centuries- old trees, it has a dreamlike quality about it. The shingled roof which creates bluish reflections and its thick shutters protect the treasures within from harm. (Contact Telephone Number: 230 433 8477, Fax Number: 230 433 4951)
Flacq - East
Centre de Flacq is one of the most important villages in Mauritius. It is the capital of the District Flacq. This meeting point for inhabitants of the East boasts the countrys largest open air market. The extremely colourful market attracts a large number of people.
Grand-Baie - North
Grand-Baie is a charming village with white sand beaches, bordered by shops, restaurants and coconut palms. Grand-Baie was the first area of the island to fully experience the tourist boom. A shopping and leisure paradise, Grand-Baie is also the place that Mauritians head for when they want a fun-filled night out (restaurants, bars and discos). Recently renovated, La Cuvette beach is well worth a visit.
Ile aux Aigrettes, South East
Owing to the remarkable work accomplished by the Mauritius Wildlife Fund, the island has become an international standard for the protection of natural resources and endangered species. A few of the worlds rarest birds, including the kestrel, can be seen there. You can also discover the extremely rare Pink Pigeon, the Green Gecko Phelsuma and the Aldabra giant tortoise. (Telephone: 230 631 2396 E-mail: mwfexec@bow.intnet.mu)
Ile Aux Cerfs - East
Situated off the east coast of Mauritius, Ile Aux Cerfs (Island of Stags) is often compared to paradise. There are no longer any stags living on this island, but it features attractive vast beaches fringed with palm trees and clear waters. There are many restaurants housed in small exotic kiosks with straw roofs and sports places. It is well connected to almost all the other islands and tourist spots in Mauritius.
Mahébourg, South East
Mahébourg is one of the main fishing villages on the island. Built on the magnificent Grand Port Bay it was founded in 1804 by the French. It was in the Bay of Mahébourg that for three days, from the 22 to August 25, 1810, the French squadrons commanded by Duperré, and the English commanded by Willoughby, fought a battle to the death. It was the only great naval victory of Napoleon.
It is named after Mahé de Labourdonnais, one of the most successful governors of the French colonial period. It was originally built by the Netherlands during their brief period of colonisation of the island. It was close to their landing port, had ample water supply from many rivers and streams and had a scenic view of the large bay area.
The well-planned wide streets in the old section of Mahébourg still bear testimony to this Dutch and French colonial past. Nowadays, Mahébourg is a bustling centre of local trade. The new waterfront complex promises some memorable walks along the sea-side. It even has a casino (mark of a developing tourism industry).
Martello Towers, South West
The Martello Towers represent the scene of the ancient rivalry between old colonial powers and the ingenuity of mankind. They are a milestone in the islands history; they symbolise the end of slavery and the beginning of Indian immigration.
This tower near the La Preneuse public beach in Tamarin has been restored by the Friends of the Environment and operates as a museum open for visitors. The original entrance to the tower is raised above ground but a new entrance has been constructed at ground level.
Pereybère - North
Pereybère is a quaint fishing village in Grand Baie. The wonderful Pereybère public beach is popular because of its shopping facilities, restaurants and pubs. Pereybère beach has the best stretch of coral sands and clearest waters that Mauritius can offer. Once you are here, you will discover the white sandy beach of Pereybère: it is like baby powder - as if you are walking on velvet.
The Royal Botanical Gardens of Pamplemousses - North
The Royal Botanical Gardens of Pamplemousses is the highlight of any visit to the north. These world famous gardens were renamed Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens in 1988 in honour of the late Prime Minister but many locals still refer to them by the former name.
Pamplemousses is believed to have taken its name from a citrus plant commonly called the pamplemoucier which was imported by the Dutch from Java. The fruit which grows in the area is thick skinned and bitter and resembles a large grapefruit. The Tamils call it the bambolmas and it is believed that this is the origin of the French word pamplemousse or grapefruit. Parking is available close to the main entrance gate and admission is free.
The white wrought iron railings and gates won first prize in the International Exhibition in 1862 at Crystal Palace in London. The garden's origins go back to 1735 when Labourdonnais bought a house in the grounds which he called Mon Plaisir. What began as a humble self sufficient vegetable garden developed into a major fresh food source for ships calling at Port Louis.
In 1768, Mon Plaisir became the residence of the French intendent and horticulturist, Pierre Poivre who laid the seeds for its present success as a garden of international acclaim. He introduced plants from all over the world and raised indigenous species, the fruits of which can be admired today. They include 80 palms and about 25 species indigenous to the Mascarene Islands, amongst them stately palms, fruit and spice trees, ebony, mahogany, latania and pandanus and occupy some 60 acres of beautiful landscape.
The centrepiece of the garden is the pond of giant water lilies. Young leaves emerge as wrinkled balls and unfold into the classic tea-tray shape up to 2m across in a matter of hours. Come in January to see them at their biggest and best.
Sega
The Sega, a dance invented by Mauritians of African origin, has become synonymous with «joie de vivre». The Sega, its music and dance form, is specific to Mauritius. The Sega, mainly based on African music originating from slaves, is nowadays played with modern instruments and features contemporary musical influences. The rubbing of feet, the swaying of hips and Creole lyrics are part and parcel of the music. The slaves obviously began dancing the Sega to forget their miserable existence. There are now several types of Sega in Mauritius. Standard Sega (where the instruments are the ravanne, the maravanne and the triangle) has its own disciples and devotees.
Souillac - South
Souillac is a small seaside resort along the rugged coast of the Savanne district. A famous feature is the garden overlooking the sea and named after Dr. Charles Telfair. A popular viewpoint is found at the southern end of the village, right on the cliff top called Le Gris Gris.
Tamarin, West
Tamarin is a town on the west coast of Mauritius. It is the seat of the council district of Black River. The holiday resort is very popular with surfers. A main road links Tamarin with Port Louis and Curepipe. The village is surrounded by hills and is very picturesque. Owing to the exceptionally high level of sunshine the district receives Tamarin is the main salt pan area in Mauritius.
The Triolet Shivala (Hindu Temple), North
The longest village on the island, Triolet offers an opportunity to visit the biggest Hindu temple, the Maheswarnath, first built in 1819 in honour of the Gods Shiva, Krishna, Vishnu, Muruga, Brahma and Ganesha.
Trou aux Cerfs, Central Inland
The crater in Trou aux Cerfs (Hole of Stags) is the main attraction for tourists. The crater became extinct eons ago and the crater floor is heavily wooded. The crater allows lovely views around the island. There are plenty of beaches and a radar station for keeping an electronic eye on cyclonic activity.
Vieux Grand Port - South East
Vieux Grand Port is the cradle of Mauritian history, as this is where people first settled on the inhabited island called Mauritius. The magnificent bay of Mahébourg has a number of sites which might have been settled, but the Dutch (who arrived in 1598) chose the high ground at Vieux Grand Port to build their fort. In the lagoon immediately below, they built a jetty from stones, which can still be seen to this day. The Mauritius National Heritage Trust Fund is studying the archeological sites of the Island at present.[back to top] |
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Aventure du Sucre, Inland North
Visit an interactive and ultra modern exhibition situated at the heart of an ancient sugar mill and discover the fascinating history of Mauritius and its sugarcane adventure exposed over 5000 sq metres! Then, let yourself be tempted by our tropical boutique with its unique gifts, souvenirs and tasting of special unrefined sugars as well as local rum. Do not miss the opportunity to relish authentic Mauritian cuisine with refined flavours at our restaurant "Le Fangourin".
Beaches
Baie du Tamarin: This bay situated at the mouth of Tamarin River, surrounded by beautiful landscape is the most popular beach for surfers in Mauritius. Gigantic waves wash into the bay almost all year.
Baie du Tombeau: This beach is a mere15 minute drive from Port Louis. This beach is overgrown with coconut palms.
Belle Mare: Belle Mare is a white sandy beach with a deep lagoon and is situated on the east coast.
Blue Bay: Blue Bay is a long beach (it stretches from Pointe d' Esny to Pointe Corps de Garde) with white sand and crystal-clear ice blue water. This beach is ideal for all water sports including sailing, surfing and snorkeling.
Cap Malheureux: Cap Malheureux (Cape of Misfortune) is a small fishing village on the northern tip of the island, with a fantastic view of the little islands Ile Plate, Ile Ronde and Coin de Mire. The chapel on the beach makes for a beautiful photograph. The name Cap Malheureux arose after the English landed there secretly on September 2nd, 1810 and expelled the French from Mauritius.
Flic-en Flac: Flic-en Flac is a long beach on the west coast with a beautiful lagoon.
Grand Baie: Grand Baie is the biggest tourist centre in Mauritius with a variety of accommodations; water sports offers, shops and excellent restaurants. One also finds a choice of discotheques and bars there. Several suppliers organize tours across the island and sea-going excursions as well; for example going to the island Coin de Mire. The beaches lie in a large bay which protects them from wind and waves.
Ile aux Cerfs: This small heavenly island situated off the East coast of Mauritius can be reached by boat from Pointe Maurice. One is greeted by the awesome sight of vast stretches of splendid white sand and water in every possible shade of blue. Water sports and a restaurant are available. Ile aux Cerfs is one of the most beautiful places in the Indian Ocean.
Mont Choisy: beautiful long beach on the northern coast full of Filao trees.
Péreybère: a small beach at the coastal road, between Grand Baie and Cap Malheureux, in the north, appreciated by Mauritians. The water is deep and clear.
Pointe aux Piments: a quiet beach situated on the north-west coast of Mauritius.
Rivière Noire: this beach is the centre of deep-sea fishing in Mauritius. With mountains in the background and water which changes from emerald green to sapphire blue, this beach is also a very scenic spot to enjoy.
Trou-aux-Biches: one of the most beautiful beaches in Mauritius. It is particularly suitable for children as the water doesnt get deep there.. It is also a nice place to snorkel, especially for beginners because you can reach the lovely coral-reefs and a variety of exotic fishes easily after only a 50 - 100 m swim. The Indian temple of Maheswarnath in Triolet can be reached after a short walk of about 30 minutes.
Carting, near Port Louis - North
Kart Loisir is an attraction park for young and old. The carting track is situated on 7 acres of land and is situated at La Jouliette, Petite Riviere. Both carting and quad biking are enjoyed here. The visitor can also savour the excellent Italian & Mauritian cuisine at the restaurant whilst absorbing the beauty of the landscape surrounding Port Louis. For all music lovers, the "Wild Monkeys" is certainly a must. (http://www.maurinet.com/kartenglish.html)
Deep Sea Fishing
Mauritius is a paradise for deep sea fishing. Species include the blue or black marlin, all types of sharks, yellow tuna, the Bonitos, the emperor, the pélerin, the bécune or the barracuda.
Huge fish like the Blue Marlin roam the seas and hunt around the island from November to April, and very often until May. The ocean is 70 metres deep one kilometre away from the coast. Mauritius holds several world fishing records (IGFA), including that of the mako shark of 1115 pounds, the blue shark of 400 pounds, a bonito of 41.5 pounds, a white tuna of 224 pounds and a bécune of 125 pounds. African records (GFUA) mention a yellow tuna of 212 pounds and a white tuna of 224 pounds. Other specimens recently caught include blue marlins of 1430 and 1355 pounds. Fishing boats can be hired from almost all hotels. The most prestigious deep sea fishing competition is the Marlin World Cup which is hosted in December by La Pirogue Hotel.
Domaine Les Pailles, North
Ten minutes south of Port-Louis lies the nature park of Domaine Les Pailles, stretching over 3,000 acres at the foot of the Moka mountain range. Although this is a nature reserve there is a great deal more to enjoy and experience at this beautiful place. For a unique culinary experience you can choose from one of the four superb restaurants: Clos St Louis, Indra, Fu Xiao and La Dolce Vita. Other fascinating experiences include:
An 18th century ox-driven Sugar Mill which still produces tropical sugar cane.
The Queen Distillery dating back to 1758, where the Domaine Les Pailles Rum is still distilled.
The gracious train Lady Alice
Horse drawn carriages which drive visitors through the Estate
The Mask Museum which is a rich cultural experience
A magnificent Spice garden - a mind-blowing olfactory sensation
A lush tropical forest which can be explored either on board a Landrover or on horseback
The Coffee Hut where you can see how they used to grill and granulate the coffee in the past
The Aloevera Hut where you can watch the artisans transform the Aloevera fibres into handicrafts.
The Spicy Hut where you can savour a Mauritian samosa and learn more about the spices used in local dishes
The Curio shop which is full of interesting and different souvenirs and products
The "Grand Casino du Domaine".
Enjoy a Sega Show
Golf
What could be more pleasant than being on holiday on a dream island whilst having the opportunity to improve your golfing skills?
Several of the hotels have excellent golf courses. Three 18 holes: Le Paradis at Le Morne Belle Mare Plage hotel, and One&Only Le Touessrok Golf Course. Five 9 holes: at Trou aux-Biches, Shandrani (Blue Bay), St Géran (Poste de Flacq), Maritim (Balaclava) and the Sofitel Impérial (Wolmar). Belle Mare Plage has two championship golf courses: Legends and Links. Most of these hotels have a club house with a locker room for customers equipment and a golf shop.
There are instructors to attend to customers needs including private tuition. Golf balls, clubs and caddies can be hired. An 18-hole golf course also exists at the Gymkhana private club in Vacoas. Visitors have to pay an entrance fee to be able to play.
The most spectacular golf course of Mauritius is probably the One&Only Le Touessrok Golf Course. One&Only Le Touessrok Golf Course is on its very own tropical island, fringed by white sands with a backdrop of green mountains - truly one of the worlds great golf settings. All 18 holes have views of the ocean. There are nine lakes in all, with a number of holes requiring tee shots across sea inlets to the fairways. Bernard Langer has designed the course to challenge advanced players, while remaining exciting and playable for recreational golfers.
Kite Surfing, North
Mauritius offers plenty of beaches, but few of them are suitable kite spots. Kite2fly took a lot of time to search for the perfect place on this magic island. And they finally found it:
Exclusive, private kite beach (non residents need to pay an entrance fee!)
The beach faces a lagoon that has water shallow enough to wade through; this is a huge & safe training area for all levels
The conditions are perfect for all levels of skill, from real flat-water to breathtaking reef waves, the water is crystal clear, in fact, if youre lucky youll see mantas here!!!
Because of the side- onshore wind, you come back safely at all times
Safety boat
Constant winds all year round
The Labourdonnais Orchards, North
Discover a large variety of tropical fruit trees, colourful and perfumed exotic flowers. Trips on mountain bikes or hiking are possible.
Port Louis -Caudan Waterfront, North
During the past years the Caudan Waterfront has become an unavoidable route for those who wish to have a taste of the best of Mauritius. Offering more than just rows of shops and restaurants Caudan Waterfront also enables you to discover Mauritian expertise in all fields, as you stroll around the area: fast food or gourmet cooking, jewellery and local crafts, everything to suit all tastes.
Port Louis Central Market, North
This picturesque market continues to be a meeting point for Mauritians looking for a «cari» (curry) or «dithé» (tea). Here you will find all the ingredients that help to create the charm of Mauritius: local crafts, vegetables, famous «dholl purris» as well as herbal tea sellers. The market was built in 1844.
Port Louis - China Town, North
Enjoy a picturesque and affordable visit to Port-Louis Chinatown. The sellers of boiled «chow mein» and fish balls form part of the picturesque scene in an area where you can find almost anything at an affordable price.
Shopping
The islands reputation as a shopping paradise is enhanced by the diversity and quality of shopping opportunities. The number of tourists-only duty-free shops where passports and air tickets must be shown is on the increase. Prices are very reasonable. What can one buy in Mauritius?
Models of old ships. Note: Airline companies charge for freight on ship models according to size and weight.
Mauritius has an enviable reputation for textiles production, namely for pullovers and knitwear. Leading brands of shirts, trousers, suits, dresses, suits for women, shorts or swimwear are sold at unbeatable prices.
Basketwork, embroidery, pottery, cut stones and recycled glass are very much in demand.
Those who love cooking will be able to take back fruit jellies, chilies, and other types of spices and pickles - delicious bits of raw vegetables soaked in oil, spices and chilly. Do not forget to buy some vanilla tea or rum.
Only accredited shops are allowed to sell duty-free goods to tourists.
Coffret des Îles, on the other hand, offers a wide range of gift-parcels ready to offer, home delivered to France, England and Germany within 72 hours.
Your Coffret des Îles can also be purchased in most of the hotels shops or with your Tour Operators local representative.
Submarine Tour - North
Blue Safari Submarine is the only operator of real submarines in the Indian Ocean. At 35m deep, your dream comes true as you discover the magic of the underwater marine life. You will enjoy a rare, unforgettable experience, travelling in total security and comfort, on-board very sophisticated, air-conditioned submarines. This is a totally unique adventure that should not be missed, whether you are 2 years old or 90 years old!
One starts out by boarding the surface vessel Betty of the Mascareignes which has two ultrasound phones which are in permanent communication with the submarine. Your dive lasts for 40 minutes. Many awe inspiring sights await you, not least the wreck of the Star Hope which many sea creatures have made their homes.
During the descent, colours change as the infra red rays of the light are filtered out by the water. At 20 metres red becomes brown and by 30 metres this becomes violet. Yellow becomes first green and then blue. Blue is the dominant colour at the deepest part of your dive. (Tropical Submarine Safari Ltd. Royal Road, Grand Bay - MAURITIUS Telephone :( +230) 263 3333)
Tamarin Falls, West
The Tamarin Falls are difficult to reach, but it is worth the effort for the reward of a deep, cool bathe at the bottom of a series of seven spectacular waterfalls. They are only accessible via a challenging trail that begins near the Tamarin Falls reservoir, but you will have to explore to find it. It is best to take a local guide from Henrietta with you.
Underwater Walk - North
Mauritian waters also welcome bespectacled non-swimmers, who are all too often frustrated by the sight of those elusive turquoise and aqua-marine seas: so close and yet out of reach!
Underwater walk does not require you to know how to swim, nor do you have to take your favourite pair of glasses off! Your stay in Mauritius cannot be complete without a (guided) tour of the adventuresome and perfectly safe reefs. Here is your chance to discover the underwater world from within, and make your childhood fantasies come true: a slow-motion cavort in the kingdom of mermaids!
Where is this natural Disneyland? The Undersea Walk Ltd. has only one site situated inside the lagoon in front of Grand Bay. A taxi boat picks you up from the beach. The excursion lasts about an hour and a half.
If you never done snorkeling before don't worry, it's simple, can be learned in a matter of minutes and mastered on your first outing. (http://www.maurinet.com/underwat.html)
The Waterpark Leisure Village, East
Enjoy unforgettable moments sliding on the giant chutes, with family or friends. Relaxation and pleasure guaranteed. (Coastal road, Belle Mare. Tel: (230) 415-2626, E-mail: lewaterpark@intnet.mu)
RELIGIOUS FESTIVALS
Cavadi - Tamil
This festival is celebrated in January/February. Bodies are pierced with needles, tongues and cheeks with pins, devotees in a trance carry the Cavadi on their shoulders as a penance. The Cavad is a wooden arch, covered with flowers and with a pot of milk at each end.
Divali - Hindu
The Festival of Lights is celebrated in a spirit of pure joy, in the month of October or November. Small clay lamps line the walls, balconies and yards. They are lit at sunset. Their golden light, which is believed to guide the Goddess of wealth and good fortune, can be seen everywhere. Divali represents the victory of truth (light) over ignorance (darkness). The Festival of Lights, Divali, is a celebration of joy, happiness and for many Mauritians, a time for sharing.
Father Laval - Christian
Every September 9, Mauritians of all faiths walk or drive towards the tomb of the Blessed Jacques Désiré Laval, the «Apostle of the Black People» at Ste-Croix, Port-Louis. The belief in Père Laval, to whom powers of healing are attributed, reminds us of the Lourdes Pilgrimage in France.
Ganesh Chaturthi - Hindu
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated by Hindus on the 4th day of the lunar month of August/September in honour of the birth of Ganesha, God of wisdom.
Holi - Hindu
This Hindu festival is as colourful as the many legends from which it originates. It is above all a festival of joy during which men and women throw coloured water and powder on each other and wish one another good luck.
Id-El-Fitr - Muslim
The Id-El-Fitr festival signals the end of Ramadan - the fasting period for Muslim people. Prayers are said in mosques all day long.
Ougadi - Telugu
Ougadi is the Telugu (Dravidian culture originating from the Indian State of Andhra) New Year and is usually celebrated in March.
Spring Festival - Chinese
The Chinese New Year is celebrated each year on a different date, owing to the differences between the lunar and the solar calendars. Houses are thoroughly cleaned before the festival. No knives or scissors may be used on the actual day of the festival. Red, a symbol of happiness is the main colour of the day. Food offerings are made to ensure that the following year will be plentiful and traditional Wax cakes are distributed to parents and friends. Firecrackers are set off to drive away the evil spirits.
Maha Shivatree
Is Celebrated in honour of Lord Siva (February). Following an all all night vigil, Hindu devotees, clad in white, carry the "Kan - war" - wooden arches covered with flowers -in pilgrimage to Grand Bassin, to fetch holy water from the lake. The whole scene is reminiscent of the great rituals on the banks of the Holy Ganges in India.
Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority
11th floor, Air Mauritius Centre,
5, President John Kennedy Street
Port Louis
Telephone :( +230)210 1545 -Fax: (+230)212 5142
High Commission of Republic of Mauritius
1163 Pretorius Street
Hatfield 0083, Pretoria
Telephone: 012 342 1283
Fax: 012 342 1286[back to top] |
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