Mokhotlong: The Highland Gem of Lesotho

• HelloDumela
  [doo-MEH-la]
• GoodbyeTsamaya hantle
  [tsa-MA-ya HAN-tle]
• YesEa
  [EA]
• NoHa
  [HA]
• Please/You're welcomeNgiyacela
  [ngi-ya-CE-la]
• Thank youKea leboha
  [KE-a le-BO-ha]
• Excuse me/SorryTlameha
  [TLA-me-ha]
• How are you?U phela joang?
  [u PHE-la jo-ang]
• Fine. And you?Ke phela hantle. Le wena?
  [KE PHE-la HAN-tle. le WE-na]
• Do you speak English?Na u bua seakhoa?
  [na u BUA se-a-KHO-a]
• I don't understandHa ke utloa
  [HA ke u-TLO-a]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseKe kopa ho bona menu, hantle
  [ke KO-pa ho BO-na ME-nu HAN-tle]
• I don't eat meatHa ke khapa nyama
  [HA ke KHA-pa nya-MA]
• Cheers!Phokotso!
  [pho-KOT-so]
• I would like to pay, pleaseKe kopa ho fumana, hantle
  [ke KO-pa ho fu-MA-na HAN-tle]

• Help!Bohle bophelo!
  [BOH-le bo-PHE-lo]
• Go away!Ngohle!
  [ngoh-LE]
• Call the Police!Nka fona bopolase!
  [nka FO-na bo-po-LA-se]
• Call a doctor!Nka fona mohlokomedi!
  [nka FO-na mo-HLO-ko-me-di]
• I'm lostKe ne ke khoneha
  [ke ne ke kho-NE-ha]
• I'm illKe lelapa
  [ke le-LA-pa]

• I'd like to buy...Ke kopa ho rekela...
  [ke KO-pa ho RE-ke-la]
• I'm just lookingKe sebetsa ho bona
  [ke se-BET-sa ho BO-na]
• How much is it?Ke bokae?
  [ke bo-KA-e]
• That's too expensiveEna e le mahala haholo
  [E-na e le ma-HA-la ha-HO-lo]
• Can you lower the price?Na u ntate mosebetsi?
  [na u nta-te mo-se-BE-tsi]

• What time is it?Keo bokae?
  [KE-o bo-KA-e]
• It's one o'clockKeo e le nngwe
  [KE-o e le n-N-gwe]
• Half past (10)Ka lefa (10)
  [ka LE-fa (10)]
• MorningBophirima
  [bo-PHI-ri-ma]
• AfternoonSelemo
  [se-LE-mo]
• EveningLehlakore
  [le-hla-KO-re]
• YesterdayNtse kele
  [ntse KE-le]
• TodayNamuhla
  [na-MU-hla]
• TomorrowNgama
  [nga-MA]
• 1Nngwe
  [n-N-gwe]
• 2Nngwana
  [n-N-gwa-na]
• 3Nngwedi
  [n-N-gwe-di]
• 4Nngwane
  [n-N-gwa-ne]
• 5Nngwato
  [n-N-gwa-to]
• 6Nngwano
  [n-N-gwa-no]
• 7Nngwale
  [n-N-gwa-le]
• 8Nngwanele
  [n-N-gwa-ne-le]
• 9Nngwasetere
  [n-N-gwa-se-te-re]
• 10Nngwaserong
  [n-N-gwa-se-rong]

• Where's a/the...?Kae ke...
  [ka-e ke]
• What's the address?Ho na leteromo?
  [ho na le-te-ro-mo]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Na u lokisa ka mapha?
  [na u lo-KI-sa ka MA-pa]
• When's the next (bus)?E hore e kae (bus)?
  [e ho-re e ka-e (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Litshebeletso (ho ....)
  [li-tshe-be-let-so ho]

Mokhotlong, translating to 'Place of the Bald Ibis,' was founded in the early 20th century and is situated in the mountainous region of Lesotho. The town emerged as an important trading post and a hub for the local communities, serving as a crucial stop for traders and travelers journeying through the rugged terrain of the Drakensberg Mountains.

In the late 19th century, the British extended their influence into the region, establishing administrative control over what is now Mokhotlong. Their presence marked the beginning of significant infrastructural developments, including the construction of roads and communication networks. This era also saw the introduction of Western education and healthcare systems to the area.

During World War II, Mokhotlong played a unique role as a recruitment center for the Basotho soldiers who fought alongside the British forces. The town served as a staging ground where local men were enlisted and trained before being dispatched to various battlefronts around the world. This period left a lasting impact on the local community and its collective memory.

In the late 20th century, Mokhotlong gained prominence due to the Highlands Water Project, a major infrastructure initiative aimed at harnessing the water resources of the Lesotho Highlands. The project brought significant economic activity to the region, including the construction of dams and tunnels, and provided employment opportunities for the local population. It also led to the development of new roads and improved transportation links.

Mokhotlong is rich in cultural heritage, with traditions deeply rooted in the Basotho way of life. The town is known for its vibrant festivals, traditional music, and dance. Local artisans produce intricate crafts, including woven hats and blankets, which are highly valued both within and outside Lesotho. Mokhotlong's culture is also reflected in its oral histories and folklore, passed down through generations.

Today, Mokhotlong is a blend of tradition and modernity. While retaining its historical and cultural essence, the town has embraced contemporary developments, including improved healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and tourism infrastructure. Visitors to Mokhotlong can explore its scenic landscapes, engage with its hospitable community, and delve into its rich historical narrative.

Mokhotlong is located in the northeastern part of Lesotho. The easiest way to get there is by flying into Moshoeshoe I International Airport in Maseru, the capital city of Lesotho. From Maseru, you can hire a 4x4 vehicle or take a local taxi for the approximately 220-kilometer journey to Mokhotlong. The road to Mokhotlong is scenic but can be challenging, especially in adverse weather conditions, so it's advisable to travel with an experienced driver.

While in Mokhotlong, transportation options include local taxis and minibus services. Due to the rugged terrain, a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for exploring the region. Walking is also a practical option within the town itself. For longer distances or trips to more remote areas, hiring a local guide can be beneficial.

The official currency in Lesotho is the Lesotho Loti (LSL), which is pegged to the South African Rand (ZAR). Both currencies are widely accepted. Credit card facilities are limited, so it's advisable to carry sufficient cash. ATMs are available but can be unreliable, so withdraw cash in Maseru before heading to Mokhotlong.

Mokhotlong is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night, and keep your belongings secure in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always a good practice.

In case of emergency, dial 123 for police assistance or 121 for medical emergencies. Mokhotlong has a local police station and a hospital for medical emergencies. It’s advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting religious sites, dress conservatively and act respectfully. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Mokhotlong like a local, visit the weekly markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Basotho crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region's history and culture. Don’t miss hiking in the Maloti Mountains or visiting the Sani Pass, which offers spectacular views and a unique experience of the mountainous terrain.