Skip to content
Chefferie BAHAM

Chiefdom

Chefferie BAHAM

Discover the Baham Chiefdom, the cradle of prestigious Ndop fabric and sanctuary of Bamileke memory.

Welcome to the Baham Superior Chiefdom

At the heart of the historic kingdom of Ndop and resistance

Welcome to the Baham Superior Chiefdom

It is with great joy and deep cultural pride that the Pa Hom community welcomes you. Under the benevolent leadership of His Majesty Pouokam Teguia Max II, our chiefdom strives to promote its heroic history, exceptional craftsmanship, and globally recognized Bamileke heritage.Whether you visit to uncover the manufacturing secrets of the prestigious royal Ndop fabric, explore the artistic treasures of our Royal Museum, or listen to the epic tales of our anti-colonial resistance, you will find here a welcoming and vibrant land. Welcome to our community, at the crossroads of art, dignity, and the sacred traditions of the Grassfields!

The Epic of Pa Hom and the Dynasty of Baham Kings

Generations.
A living memory.

Explore the great periods that shaped the land, the chiefdom and its heritage. Click a date to discover its story.

1500 - 1700

The establishment of the kingdom by the founding hunters

• The Baham kingdom was founded around the 16th century by hunters from neighboring regions, led by the first King (Fong) of the dynasty. Following a pivotal event where a man was cleverly locked inside a hut with no doors or windows to test his wits and strength, the community adopted the traditional name "Pa Hom" (literally meaning "those who lock inside"). Over time, this name evolved into Baham, symbolizing a proud, strategic, and independent people in the heart of the Grassfields.

1954 - 1960

Anti-colonial resistance and the sacrifice of H.M. Kamdem Ninyim Pierre

In the mid-20th century, Baham became one of the greatest hubs of nationalist and anti-colonial resistance in Western Cameroon. Enthroned in 1954, the young and charismatic King, His Majesty Kamdem Ninyim Pierre, firmly opposed the French colonial administration by openly backing nationalist movements (UPC). Deposed and exiled by colonial authorities in 1956, his heroic commitment and tragic fate made him a legendary figure in the struggle for Cameroon's freedom and sovereignty.

1986 - 2026

The long modernizing reign of His Majesty Pouokam Teguia Max II

Following the transitional reign of H.M. Teguia Jean (1956-1986), His Majesty Pouokam Teguia Max II ascended the throne in 1986 as the 18th sovereign of the dynasty. Under his long 40-year reign, the Baham chiefdom has experienced unprecedented modernization. A man of culture and diplomacy, he has championed reconciliation, rebuilt the grand Royal Palace, revitalized the Museum, and globally promoted local craftsmanship, especially the prestigious Ndop fabric of which Baham is the historic birthplace.

Experiences

Our activities

Authentic moments guided by those who know the place best.

Our museum

The Royal Museum of the Baham Superior Chiefdom

The Baham Royal Museum is one of the most dynamic and iconic cultural spaces in the Grassfields region. As a true guardian of the collective memory of the Pa Hom people, it houses an exceptional collection of sacred art pieces, intricately beaded royal thrones, impressive zoomorphic masks, and anthropomorphic ancestral statues that demonstrate the refinement of Bamileke sculpture.Beyond its monumental statuary, the museum stands out for its unique display of sacred textiles. As the historic birthplace of the royal Ndop fabric, the museum educationally outlines the secrets of weaving, pattern making, and indigo-dyeing this prestigious cloth. It also features a poignant historical wing dedicated to the 1950s anti-colonial resistance, making this tour an unforgettable journey bridging art, spirituality, and national history.

Visit the museum

06

exhibits

Crafts

Our shop

Unique handmade pieces.

Key figures

The Baham Chiefdom in figures

16e siècle

Century of foundation of the dynasty by Tamdja

18ème Monarque

Successive kings on the throne of Pa Hom

40Ans de dévouement

Years of reign of His Majesty Pouokam Teguia Max II

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Baham is the capital of the Highlands Division. The Royal Palace is located about 20 kilometers south of Bafoussam. The site is easily accessible by car or public transport, as it is located right next to the main highway connecting Bafoussam to Yaounde.

Verified reviews

They lived the experience

No reviews yet.

Reviews are posted by travellers who booked here, after their visit.

Booked here? Write your review from your account after your visit.

Need help?

A question before booking?

Our team is here to help you prepare your experience.

Book an activity

Live a unique experience

Choose the activity, the date and the number of participants.

Sign in to book

A free account lets you track your bookings, message the provider and leave a review.

Stay at the chiefdom

Book a guest hut

Experience the chiefdom from within, at the pace of its traditions.

Sign in to book

A free account lets you track your bookings, message the provider and leave a review.

Contact us

Leave us a message

A question, a request for information? Write to us and we will reply as soon as possible.

Have an account? Chat online directly: sign in

Good to know

Practical information

Amenities and services

Parking Free parking Secure parking Cash Mobile Money Collection storage Gift shop School groups welcome 24-hour security

In detail

Traditional name
Pa Hom
People
Bamiléké
Founded
Vers le XVIe siècle
Guided tours

Contact us

Languages spoken

French, English

Location

Find us

Chefferie Supérieure de Baham, Région de l'Ouest, Cameroun

Open in Google Maps