Situated 170 km from the capital city Antananarivo, is the third largest city of Madagascar, Antsirabe. The capital of Vakinankaratra, Antsirabe is the main industrial center of the country and was established by a Norwegian missionary, as a refuge because of its cool climate resulting from the altitude at which it is situated.
As an industrial center, it is famous for its production of milk and food products, the Kobama grain, beverages and textiles. Volcanic hills surround the city, with a thermal bath and health center and warm springs, which made the city popular during the 19th century when people arrived here especially for the thermal bath.
Also seen here are some beautiful crater lakes and the historic tombs of BETAFO. Colorful Pousse Pousse (human-powered rickshaws) are seen operating on the streets and you can take a ride on them while wandering in the city. You can travel by road from Antananarivo to get to Antsirabe, for a quiet and peaceful holiday and to indulge in the thermal bath, apart from seeing some of the attractions of the city.
Photo by Papymaj provided courtesy of Panoramio.com
Photo by Papymaj provided courtesy of Panoramio.com
Photo by Papymaj provided courtesy of Panoramio.com
Photo by Papymaj provided courtesy of Panoramio.com
Photo by Papymaj provided courtesy of Panoramio.com