Banja Luka

Banja Luka (also written Banjaluka or Бања Лука) is a picturesque city in the Western part of Bosnia and Herzegovina and is the administrative capital and the largest city of Republika Srpska and the second largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Introduction to Banja Luka

The Republika Srpska has a turbulent recent past, which motivates some people to be less than enthusiastic of many things Serb in Bosnia. A 1969 earthquake destroyed most of the town and in 1993 local Serbs blew up the city’s masjids, including the famous Ferhadija, built in 1580. Ferhadija has been rebuilt.

Weather in Banja Luka

Banja Luka has a continental climate, with harsh winters and warm summers. The warmest month of the year is July, with an average temperature of 21.3°C (70°F). The coldest month of the year is January, when temperatures average near freezing at 0.8°C (33°F). Annual precipitation for Banja Luka is about 988mm. Banja Luka has an average of 143 rainy days a year. Due to the city's high latitude, it snows in Banja Luka almost every year as well. Strong winds come from the north and north-east.

Ferhadija Mosque: A Historic Gem in Banja Luka

Ferhadija Mosque, located in Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a splendid 16th-century Ottoman mosque surrounded by serene gardens. The mosque, which stands as a symbol of cultural and historical significance, was tragically destroyed during the Bosnian War but has since been meticulously restored to its traditional form in 2007.

Location

Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića, Banja Luka 78000, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Visiting Hours

Opens 8:30 AM daily

Contact

Phone: +387 51 211-840

Description

Ferhadija Mosque is not just a place of worship but also a historical landmark that tells a powerful story of resilience and restoration. The mosque was originally built in 1579 by the Ottomans and is renowned for its intricate architectural details and beautifully decorated interior. After being destroyed during the conflict in the 1990s, the mosque was rebuilt to its former glory, reopening in 2007.

Visitor Experience

Visitors often praise the mosque for its breathtaking beauty and the warm hospitality of the host. The host assists visitors with appropriate attire, providing long skirts and headwear to ensure modesty inside the mosque. The mosque is free to visit between prayer times, allowing guests to explore without disturbing the worshippers. The host, stationed at the entrance, offers insightful information about the mosque's rich history and significance.

Reviewers highlight the detailed craftsmanship both inside and outside the mosque, making it a must-visit landmark in Banja Luka. Many find their time at Ferhadija Mosque to be both educational and spiritually uplifting, enhanced by the perfect explanation of its history provided by the local people.

Ferhadija Mosque stands as a testament to the enduring cultural heritage of Banja Luka. Its restoration symbolizes hope and resilience, making it a poignant site for both locals and tourists. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or spiritual exploration, a visit to Ferhadija Mosque promises a memorable and enriching experience.

Banja Luka During the Bosnian War

Banja Luka, the second-largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, faced significant turmoil and tragedy during the Bosnian War (1992-1995). The war, part of the broader conflicts following the breakup of Yugoslavia, saw Banja Luka, predominantly a Serb-populated area, becoming a focal point of ethnic and political strife.

The Bosnian War was characterized by fierce ethnic conflict among Bosniaks (Bosnian Muslims), Croats, and Serbs. Banja Luka, located in the northern region of Bosnia and Herzegovina, was under the control of Bosnian Serb forces and was declared the capital of the self-proclaimed Republika Srpska, a Serb entity.

Ethnic Cleansing

During the war, Banja Luka witnessed systematic ethnic cleansing aimed at non-Serb populations, particularly Bosniaks and Croats. Many were forcibly expelled from their homes, subjected to violence, and even killed. This period saw significant demographic changes, with a dramatic reduction in the non-Serb population.

Destruction of Cultural Heritage

One of the most tragic aspects of the war in Banja Luka was the deliberate destruction of cultural and religious landmarks. Notable examples include:

Ferhadija Mosque

A 16th-century Ottoman mosque and a symbol of the city's multicultural heritage, it was destroyed in 1993 by Bosnian Serb forces.

Arnaudija Mosque

Another significant Ottoman-era mosque, also destroyed during the conflict.

Humanitarian Impact

The war led to severe humanitarian crises in Banja Luka, with widespread shortages of food, medicine, and basic supplies. The city's infrastructure was heavily damaged, and many residents lived under constant threat of violence.

The international community condemned the ethnic cleansing and destruction of cultural heritage in Banja Luka. The war crimes committed in the region became a focus of investigations by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY). Several Bosnian Serb leaders were later indicted and convicted for their roles in the atrocities.

Post-War Period

Following the Dayton Agreement in 1995, which ended the Bosnian War, Banja Luka became the administrative center of Republika Srpska, one of the two entities within Bosnia and Herzegovina. Efforts were made to rebuild the city and restore its multicultural heritage, including the reconstruction of the Ferhadija Mosque, which was completed and reopened in 2007.

The Bosnian War left an indelible mark on Banja Luka, with its legacy of ethnic cleansing, destruction, and humanitarian suffering. However, the city's post-war recovery and the restoration of its cultural landmarks symbolize resilience and the hope for a peaceful, multicultural future. The experiences of Banja Luka during the war serve as a poignant reminder of the devastating impacts of ethnic conflict and the enduring importance of reconciliation and rebuilding.

Local Language in Banja Luka

In Banja Luka most local residents call their language Serbian, although there are plenty of people who refer to the language as Bosnian, BHS, or as 'Naš' (our language). Anyway, those languages are virtually the same. Sometimes you'll find (road)signs written in Cyrillic.

Travel to Banja Luka

Take a bus to Banja Luka

The bus station is roughly 2 km to the north of the centre. There are taxis right at the exit of the bus which for ~10 Bosnia and Herzegovina#Money|marks (KM) can drive you to the centre. The city bus leaves from next to the train station, 200 m away and a fare to the centre is less than 2 km. The Wi-Fi password of the café at the bus station is neobasbl

• Agencija Neobas You can buy your ticket at the bus station, or at the Neobas tourist agency in the centre of town, Jevrejska bb (Novi Zanatski Centar). Prices are the same.

There are direct bus connections from the main bus station to

• Bosnia: Sarajevo, Prijedor, Trebinje, Prijedor, Teslić, Višegrad, Bihać...
• Austria: Vienna, Linz and Salzburg
• Croatia: Zagreb, Makarska, Pula, Split, Zadar, Rijeka
• Denmark: Copenhagen
• France: Paris, Lyon... see Eurolines.
• Germany: Cologne, Dortmund, Duisburg, Dusseldorf, Essen, Frankfurt, Ingolstadt, Karlsruhe, Mannheim, Munich, Nuremberg, Pforzheim, Stuttgart and Ulm
• Montenegro: Igalo, Podgorica
• Netherlands: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, Maastricht
• Serbia: Belgrade, Novi Sad, Kragujevac, Zrenjanin, Niš, Subotica
• Sweden: Stockholm
• Switzerland: Zürich, Luzern

Several international buses from Western Europe to Bosnia follow the route Zagreb - Derventa - Doboj - Sarajevo, providing you with a wide detour around Banja Luka

Normally you would get out of those buses at Derventa but if the weather is al right and its not in the middle of the night, you could ask the bus driver to let you already out at the Novska gas station (3 km after the Novska exit) on the Zagreb-Bosanski Brod highway, approx 3 hours before Derventa. From the Novska gas station its another 15 km hitchhike to Okučani and the highway exit to Banja Luka (the bus won't let you off there, it is off the highway, but its easy for cars to drop you off there). From Okučani its 3 km (hitch)hike to the Bosnian border. You can then cross the border on foot (or hitching) and continue the last lap of your travel by taking a bus to BL in Gradiska|Bosanska Gradiska (approx 8 KM). This will almost always save you several hours and totally widens the spectrum of buses available to travel to Banja Luka.

Fly to Banja Luka

• Banja Luka International Airport IATA Flight Code: BNX Regular Flights to Belgrade with Air Serbia and seasonal to Tivat (Montenegro).

Smiljić bus company arranges a shuttle van/taxi to and from the airport to the old busstation (stara autbuska stanica) in the centre of town. Its recommended to make a reservation by email (agencija@). The charge is 10 KM for a one-way ticket. So if your with three or more, it's probably just as affordable to go by cab.

Travel by train to Banja Luka

The train (and bus) station is located around 2 km southeast of the centre. Connections to: Doboj and Sarajevo (5 hr), Zagreb (5 hr) and Ploče (Croatia) and to Belgrade (Serbia). There are only a few trains passing the station each day, but tickets are a bit cheaper than the bus and the train is generally more comfortable.

Get Around in Banja Luka

By bike

You can obtain your bike fixed á la minutes at the Bike Servis Shop, in the Ul. Gundulićeva 104 - next to the football stadion. Tel. 051/301-470. Another bike shop is 5 doors down in the row of buildings.

The tourist office owns 15 rental bicycles, which are maintained by the above bike shop. Rental: 1 KM/hour, or 15 KM/day.

Car rental

• Rentacar Omega: Ul. 1 Krajiškog Korpusa 58, tel. 065/610-040 or 065/777-888, 60 KM per day, 55 KM/day if longer than 3 days.

What to see in Banja Luka

There are many historic things to see in the city of Banja Luka.

• Kastel fortress on the bank of the Vrbas river with history up to Roman ages.
• Ferhat-Pasha Mosque (Ferhat-pašina džamija), (also called Ferhadija mosque) This example of Islamic 16th century architecture was built during the time of the Islamic Ottoman rule. Built in 1579 it has a central fountain called Shaderwan, stone and iron fence. It is built in the classical Ottoman style. Ferhadija was listed as a cultural legacy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1950. Later it was protected by UNESCO until destroyed in 1993. The site and the remains of the mosque today are a national monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the mosque is under reconstruction.
• Gothic Church of Saint Bonaventure Built in 1887 and the 1969 earthquake leveled the church. The current cathedral was built in 1974.
• Banski Dvor (Governor’s Palace) in centre of the city. Built in the 1930s. A concert hall and gallery. Thit is the main cultural centre.
• Monastery of Gomionica from 16th century near Banja Luka. Monastery has the collection of ancient icons from 18th century.

And contemporary things:

• Gospodska street, actually Veselin Masleša street, is the main street of city with shops, offices and cafes (on bottom) alongside. Recommended time to visit, because of its liveliness, is during day on Saturdays whole day and between 12:00 and 14:00 on workdays. During evenings visit on Fridays and Sundays or each day in the case of nice weather.

Top Muslim Travel Tips in Banja Luka

• Market | The market, close to the bus- and train station is worth your while. Seems to be coming straight from the nationside, each day of the week in the morning you can buy everything you need there, from vegetables to hardware to second hand freezers. On Sunday cars are on sale - and an occasional French-plated Mercedes, on Tuesdays livestock.

• Take a Dajak tour over the Vrbas from ("Zeleni most" - Prvi mlin - Kastel - "Zeleni most"), 20 KM/one person; 25 KM/two persons, 30 KM/three persons, (maximum: three persons for one boat) Contact numbers: 065/517-261 or 065/566-139.
• Multipleks Palas - Cinema | Cinema Palas with your fair amount of blockbusters and some local movies.

• Restoran Slap - Swim | Novoselija - go to the east shore of the Vrbas and continue the road all the way south until you come to Novoselija

If you are interested in the traditional arts and crafts of the region, Duga can offer fantastic learning opportunities to you. Contact Duga and arrange a visit where you can watch and learn from local craftspeople as they conduct live demonstrations of a wide range of handicrafts including weaving, crocheting, embroidery and knitting. You will be able to have a “hands on” experience and a chance to learn new skills in the process.

Events

• Demofest - Festival of alternative music, lasting three days, consisting of two different parts: each evening there is a contest of demo bands, with two semifinal nights and the finals, which are held on the third day of the festival and concerts of bands with more reputation following each part of the contest.

• Banjalukanima Animaton films, October

• Kratkofil Festival of short films in summer

• Neofest Pop music, organised by Dom Omladine.

Rafting

Go rafting on the parcours of the 2009 World Championships of rafting in the Canyon of the Vrbas with Buk, Jesenjinova 1, 50 KM per person, or with the much more posh Kanjon Rafting Club in Karanovac.

Shopping in Banja Luka

Many establishments (especially hotels) accept euros (notes only). ATMs are all over the place with MasterCard, Visa and other offshoots being accepted. Credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard and Diners Club are readily accepted by larger establishments all over the nation. When changing money, it is best to ask for small bills as shops often are hard-pressed for change. Travelers cheques can be readily changed at Raiffeisen and Zagrebačka Banks.

Tipping

It is not compulsory to tip in Banja Luka, though a reward of about 10% for good service in restaurant or café is always appreciated.

Souvenirs

You can get local, handicraft souvenirs for example at the shop of association "Duga". All items there are made of natural materials by traditional technologies and are decorated with ornaments from original traditional clothing from the area of Dinara. Their collection contains: ethno souvenirs, decorative products and clothing. - Etnoradionica "Duga", Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 88 (the same street as the city hall) All of the handicrafts are produced in an ethical manner and by purchasing them you will help Duga to continue providing aid to all of its beneficiaries and support to other local humanitarian projects.

Next to Kastel is also a souvenir shop, look for the big "Suvenir"-sign.

Halal Restaurants & Food in Banja Luka

Banja Luka, the second largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, offers a variety of dining options, including several establishments that cater to those seeking Halal food. Here's a look at some notable spots:

Doner Kebab Germany 1 Banja Luka

Rating: 4.4 (72 reviews)
Cuisine: Doner Kebab
Address: Sime Matavulja bb
Hours: Open until 10:30 PM
Contact: +387 66 316-661
Services: Dine-in, Drive-through

This establishment offers a variety of Doner Kebab options, known for its authentic taste and convenient services. It’s a go-to place for Halal fast food.

Kod Muje

Rating: 4.1 (1,028 reviews)
Cuisine: General Restaurant
Address: Braće Mažar i majke Marije 24
Hours: Open until 10 PM
Contact: +387 51 213-562

Kod Muje is a popular local restaurant offering a variety of Halal dishes. Known for its good service and understanding of English, it’s a friendly spot for both locals and tourists.

City Kebab

Rating: 5.0 (3 reviews)
Cuisine: Fast Food
Location: Krajiških brigada
Hours: Open 24 hours
Services: Dine-in, Takeaway

City Kebab is a highly rated 24-hour fast food spot, perfect for those in need of a Halal meal at any time of the day or night.

Slap

Rating: 4.5 (1,949 reviews)
Cuisine: General Restaurant
Address: Kragujev. i kraljev. žrtava 96
Hours: Open until 12 AM
Contact: +387 51 413-303

Slap offers a range of dishes, including tasty Halal options. It’s a great place for a late-night meal.

A&D

Rating: 4.6 (1,891 reviews)
Cuisine: Barbecue
Address: Grčka 32
Hours: Open until 10 PM
Contact: +387 51 211-200

Although primarily a barbecue restaurant, A&D offers some Halal options, making it a choice spot for those craving grilled meats.

Kazamat

Rating: 4.6 (2,996 reviews)
Cuisine: Eastern European
Address: Teodora Kolokotronisa
Hours: Open until 11 PM
Contact: +387 51 224-460

While Kazamat is a well-rated Eastern European restaurant, it's important to note that they do not serve Halal food. However, they offer Vegetarian options for those looking for alternatives.

These establishments reflect the diverse culinary landscape of Banja Luka and its growing accommodation of Halal dietary needs. Whether you're in the mood for a quick Kebab or a sit-down meal, these restaurants offer a range of Halal options to satisfy your cravings.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Banja Luka

Banja Luka - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Banja Luka, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Banja Luka. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Banja Luka and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Banja Luka. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Banja Luka. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Banja Luka: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Banja Luka.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Banja Luka: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Banja Luka, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Banja Luka.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Banja Luka, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Banja Luka, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Banja Luka and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Banja Luka, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Banja Luka, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Banja Luka without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Banja Luka is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Banja Luka.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Banja Luka is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Banja Luka, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Banja Luka Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Banja Luka

eHalal Group Banja Luka is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Banja Luka. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Banja Luka.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Banja Luka ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Banja Luka. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Banja Luka, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Banja Luka are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly hotels in Banja Luka

• Hotel Cezar Banja Luka

• Hotel Palace

• Hotel Bosna

• Hotel Atina

• Hotel Grand

• Hotel Talija

• Hotel Vidovic

• Elit Motel Dragana

• Hotel Banja Luka | Comfortable ambiance and friendly staff. Restaurant and free Internet.

Travel Next from Banja Luka

• Climbing: 24 km south of Banja Luka and 5 km north of Krupa na Vrbasu is a nice climbing site; the 'stone bridge' (Kameni Most, Камени мост). More information you can for example get at "Extreme Banja Luka" climbing club.
• Rafting: At Karanovac, 15 km south on the primary street from Banja Luka is rafting club "Kanjon" from where you can go rafting in the Vrbas canyon. On the Vrbas, together with the Tara near Foča and the world championships of rafting were held in 2009.
• Doboj renovated medieval fortress, about 1.5 hours by train. Not far from Karanovac is the canyon of the Svrakava river, a small canyon where it is nice to try to climb through. Its a wild spot, it is not being commercially exploited. You can reach the canyon by going on the road towards Kneževo. After you pass the bridge over the Vrbas to Karanovac and there is a small road going on your left with an indication of Svrakava. That is just before the primary street goes uphill into the forest. After that indication there are no others, so you'll have to find it from there on yourself. Its about 3 kilometers further that road.
• If you really want to go canonying, ask a local person to take you to Cvrcka canyon (Цврцка). Around 40 km south-east of town, between Kotor Varoš and Kneževo. On hot summer days you can track up to 18 km through the canyon wading through the fresh water of the Cvrcka river. Not difficult.

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