The Ultimate Petra Travel Guide
Everything you need to know before and when visiting this ancient city.
Was it a pink, a rose, or a salmon
that left a blush on my face, cheeks, and all over
as I left the city awe-struck
in its uniqueness and antiquity?
Visiting Petra in Jordan has been at the top of my mental bucket list for a long time. And rightfully so. It is an unbelievable sight to see! Witnessing the hidden beauty of one of the oldest metropolises of the world with its amazing history and cultural heritage left me speechless! And I know, just like me, you will return with beautiful memories of a land that is a great attraction to tourists from all over the globe.
Built by the Nabatean tribe, and rediscovered in 1812 by Swiss explorer, Johann Ludwig Burckhardt, Petra is also known as the Rose-Red city because of the colour of the stone from which it has been carved. Dating back to 300 BC when it was the capital of a Nabatean Kingdom, it is said to have once been a thriving trading centre with hidden secrets that are yet to be discovered. It comes as no surprise then that this UNESCO Heritage Site that is surrounded by mountains, passages, tombs, monuments, and sacred structures, has been named in the New Seven Wonders of the World.
I knew I would be impressed by Petra. And was I ever. Here is my Ultimate Guide to Petra!
Forethought
Most tourists visit the Dead Sea {the lowest point on earth}, Petra {the lost city}, and Wadi Rum {Jordan’s desert} when they travel to Jordan ~ excluding the experiences of soaking in the essence of Jordan on the whole. In my opinion, Jordan offers a lot more apart from these tourist attractions, and Jordan’s capital city, Amman {one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world} holds a lot of surprises for travellers.
My suggestion would be to take a longer trip where you not only cover the important attractions in Amman and its neighbouring places, but can also visit a nearby country {either Egypt or Israel} along with it.
The Ultimate Petra Travel Guide: Know Before You Go
Travelling Season
The ideal time to travel to Jordan will be during spring and autumn, as during the sweltering summer months the temperatures can go up to 40 °C. It is advisable to explore the place when the climate is cool and pleasant.
Visa
Indian passport holders travelling to Jordan are eligible for visa on arrival {VOA} provided they carry all the necessary documentation required for the visa process, i.e. valid passport, hotel stay details, return flight or onward flight, and USD 1000 per person for a week’s stay.
Visa cost: JD 40 {* If a person purchases a JD pass, and is staying in Jordan for more than 3 days, then the visa cost is waived off.}
Accommodation
Petra by Night is an enchanting experience {more on this later} and staying overnight in Petra is recommended if you intend to visit the Dead Sea and Wadi Rum {as they are only a few hours away from Petra}. I would suggest staying at Wadi Mousa, a town nearby, where hotels ranging from one star to five stars are available to suit the pockets of different kinds of travellers.
Vikram and I were hosted by Movenpick Resort Petra, located right at the entrance to the ancient city. It’s a lovely property with great amenities, and what made it special was the stunning view of the entrance from our window.
On Being Safe
Although you can gather a lot of information regarding safety, entry requirements, and travel warnings online; I can assure you that Jordan is a safe place to travel to. Despite the ongoing problems of its neighbouring countries and the political instability of the region, Jordanians are polite and friendly to tourists. Public transportation is safe, and I can say that there was not one untoward incident during my trip that made me question the safety of the place.
Dress Code:
Although there is no dress code while travelling in Jordan and locals are used to seeing tourists all over the place in all sorts of attire, it is always better to respect their culture and be covered appropriately. I felt happier covered up in an airy cotton top and trousers.
I would also advise you to carry a hat or a headscarf that will provide an escape from the sun because most of the tourist spots have hardly any shade. And of course, sunglasses and sunscreen are must-haves on this trip. Also, since you’ll be walking over sandy and rocky ground, I would recommend sturdy walking shoes/sneakers instead of sandals or slippers.
Language:
English is widely spoken hence language is not a matter of concern to travellers visiting Jordan.
Entrance Fee to Petra
The ticket rates are high. It would be more economical to get a 2/3 day pass and you will be able to see all the attractions at a slightly slower pace instead of rushing through. It will work out to a few dollars more than the one-day rate of 50 JD but will be worth it.
1 Day= 50 JD
2 Day= 55 JD
3 Day= 60 JD
If this is too pricey for you, then you can opt for the option of Petra by Night which is 17 JD but you will get to see only The Treasury. Moreover, this is available only on certain days and if you are not there on those days, then it will not work out.
Pointers
Walking around the ancient city can be draining and tiring, and will leave you thirsty. You will at least require two/three bottles of water, and since prices inside the site are on the higher side, I would advise you to carry your own water bottles. The place is dotted with many tea stalls, cafes, kiosks, and one proper restaurant near the museum called The Basin that serves buffet lunch {that includes a bottle of wine}.
The site has portaloos, as well as toilets that are clean with running water and toilet paper.
Day Trips
There are two must-do trips; Wadi Rum and The Dead Sea which can be done as day trips from Petra. Vikram and I did both and at Wadi Rum we slept in a Martian Dome under the bright stars! A seriously amazing experience to remember! Both these trips can be arranged by the hotel you are staying at while in Petra.
The Ultimate Petra Travel Guide: Going to Petra
My recommendation is to start your day early because early morning would be the best time to walk, and it gives you enough time to discover these unique ruins at a leisurely pace before it gets crowded. Also, I noticed that our pictures came out well because they were taken in natural morning light before shadows appear.
The Treasury
The Treasury or The Al-Khazneh is the most famous tomb in Petra. We made our way through The Siq {which is a narrow gorge} and we marvelled at nature; the over 660 feet high walkway is filled with rock formations of all the vibrant shades of red and orange! After about a 25 minute walk {which included multiple photo stops}, we reached the end, entering like minuscule ants into the mouth of the great canyon.
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As we caught our first glimpse of The Treasury through the slits of the rock formation, I was left awe-struck at the grandeur of the structure. And I couldn’t help marvelling at the architecture that prevailed during that period. The structure looked spectacular in the morning light, and Vikram and I got busy clicking; taking in its beauty from different angles, and capturing the vibrant hues and radiance of the place. We were lucky to have reached there early enough to beat the crowds.
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It was massive, very well maintained, and seemed a little unreal!
It was a lovely day in Petra, so we enjoyed walking through the fascinating landscape. I should say, it lives up to its reputation of being called the Rose City as the entire place was tinted with shades of pink, and the morning sun did a splendid job of highlighting the rose hue.
The road winding through the city lead us past several attractions including the Theatre, the Urn Tomb, the Corinthian Tomb, the Palace Tomb, the Cardo Maximus, the Great Temple, the Columbarium, and the Winged Lion’s Temple. But truly, words fail to describe the gamut of feelings that ran inside me while exploring the intricate carvings on sandstone cliffs, obelisks, colonnaded streets, fascinating water conduit systems, and more such wonders ~ a lesson both in history and time.
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There are a few other sites around the place that can be explored by hiking to the top which gives sweeping views of Petra with Wadi Musa. I should say the finale was inviting; a quaint café that serves snacks, fresh juice, and Turkish coffee!
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The Monastery
Ad Deir {The Monastery} is a beautifully carved building, similar to that of The Treasury but not as decorative, and is quite a daunting climb of 850 steps on an ancient rock-cut path. It’s hard work in the searing desert heat and you’ll want to plan for a few breaks to rehydrate along the way. I would suggest waiting till late afternoon to make the climb because then the path is mostly in shade.
What we did was hike along with a guide on day 2, and we did a hiking trail from the back of the mountain which we understand is the easier way to reach the top. The view is quite dramatic as the beautiful mountains and ancient ruins merge with the expansiveness of the place. Seeing Petra was something I had been looking forward to for ages and it sure delivered!
Petra by Night
You can go to Petra at night and see this:
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The entrance fee is cheaper as it is only 17 JD. We didn’t go to the night viewing because Vikram and I weren’t there on the days that it was available, but I was told that you walk down to The Siq on a path lit by candles and you look at The Treasury in candlelight. I have no doubt it’s a surreal and whimsical experience.
The night viewings are on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 8:30 PM.
To conclude: Vikram and I had many magical moments during our trip through Jordan and now when I look back everything seems like an enchanting dream. I hope you experience the same kind of magic we did when you visit Jordan.
I hope that this article has inspired you to visit Petra and Jordan. If you have any questions about the destination or have your own travel tips to share, please leave these in the comments below.
Disclaimer: This review was done on an invitation from the Jordan Tourism Board. Due judgment and care have been applied by the author to remain objective and unbiased in the review.
Petra is definitely the experience of a lifetime, but your blog really clinches it for me! Thank you for the detailed guide, Tanya – it’ll be very useful for later planning!
Petra is a remarkable place that everyone should visit in their lifetime, Ruchi!
This I learned about visiting Petra ~ the additional $$ to hire a site guide to take you through is especially justified. I am so glad that you had such a great experience, Tanya! ❤️
Yes. Without a guide, you don’t really get the opportunity to acknowledge and learn about the history and effort it took to carve out such an amazing city, Triveni.
The city of mysteries ❤️ I really want to visit Jordan this year!
Loved every bit of the history and culture shared, Tanya! It looks like you definitely NEED TIME to get the full feel of Petra’s magical history!
It’s not just the typical sand stone photos that you usually see… It’s an entire ancient city with miles of surprises and history, Preeti.
So appreciate this sacred space… Petra looks truly amazing!
I’m in love with your photos, Tanya ~ particularly the one when the Treasury initially appears. And, I have enjoyed all of your travel articles up until now. xx
Thanks so much, Rukhshaya. Glad you’re enjoying them. Jordan is a very special place. 🙂
You look PETRA-fied! 😀 I loved reading about your experiences, and I can imagine how travelling through this canyon with 30 people could really ruin the magic! I am attempting to design a visit to Jordan later this year and intend to give it the time it deserves so I can get the full feel! 🙂
Makes me so happy you found it useful, Tanya. Have a great trip!
Great and comprehensive tips, and loving the map guide, Tanya! Thank you for sharing with us your adventure! I am dying to visit and hopefully will make it there by 2020!
Sharing a fun fact: The name Petra is derived from the Greek word ‘petros’, which means rocks.
Thanks Arushi. I wound up carrying a few map variations as none of them had everything on, so I thought I’d attempt to draw my own version!
Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better. *Albert Einstein*
Jordan just skyrocketed up my must-visit list of destinations! Thank you for sharing!
Thanks Nadeem, I absorbed so much information that I thought I’d put it to use!
Unbelievable! Petra is now definitely on my travel list. 🙂
I love your travel blog, and the pictures I see popping up in my news feed! You are an incredible travel writer and I truly welcome all the information you include, Tanya.
Thank you so much, Kiana. I hope you get to visit and experience the AMAZEMENT that is Jordan! 🙂
What an absolutely amazing and beautiful adventure you’ve had, Tanya! Another check on your dream list no doubt! Makes me want to hop on a plane and go this very moment!
Thanks for visiting, Pia. Hope you get the opportunity to make it out there soon ~ I’m sure you’ll love it!
I’m so envious of your travels, Tanya. 🙂 Although when it comes to Jordan, I can say I’ve experienced the country’s splendour! And when in Petra, I’ll never forget the taste of the hot mint tea in front of the carpet of fairy lights, while musicians played the rababa and Bedouins shared stories about Petra!
Jordan is such a dream destination, isn’t it?!
“You don’t have to be rich to travel well.” – Eugene Fodor.
Petra looks stunning and has been at the top of my travel-list for some time now! I would love to visit one day… Thank you for all the detailed travel tips! ❤️
Petra was beyond gorgeous! I hope this guide comes in useful for you someday. 🙂
Wonderful post and photographs, Tanya! Travelling is one of my greatest passions, and Petra looks like a dream that is beckoning!
I’ve been told that most of Petra’s visitors just stop at the famous treasury facade… I shall take it as a personal challenge to hike until the end because I can see from you post that the monastery is totally worth the strain!
I mean, you’re just there once so you gotta get it right the first time!
I’m always amazed by how small we appear against such monuments of history! And yes, I kinna freak out when it comes to visiting New World Wonders and getting great photographs! How do you do it?!
It was anything but difficult to get great photographs; and I adored the local people who still live there. We were welcomed for tea with one of them… unforgettable!
Such an incredible site, right?! The world is certainly ours to explore…
I am so appreciative of your travel tips, Tanya! I would like to visit Jordan in early November and am hoping to benefit as much as possible from my trip! 🙂
Thanks for your comment, Sonali. Happy I could help and I wish you a wonderful trip!
Reminiscing that view! ❤️
Exquisite post and photographs alongside the valuable tips and maps, Tanya. Looks like you both truly enjoyed your time in Jordan!
Thank you and we did, Sujatha. I am glad you are enjoying my posts.
Comprehensive yet concise, precisely the information I needed for our trip in October. Thank you for your time and effort in putting this guide together, Tanya. xx
I am glad that you found the post helpful, Monali. Make the most of your trip!
Even though you know what it looks like from the internet, there is something about finally seeing it with your own eyes… this ancient, carved facade quietly peeking through the darkness of the Siq… that really does take your breath away! ❤️
It’s an awesome place to visit and reconnect with people from long ago. It unquestionably leaves a mark on you, Anjali.
Lovely photographs, Tanya! Those earth tones are something else!
I remember, when I first saw a photo of Petra circulating online, I made a promise to myself that I would go there one day… It is now my most loved of the ancient wonders, to some extent because there are some incredible hikes among the ruins that allow you to escape the crowds.
I hear you, Simran. I personally love being outdoors and feeling at one with nature…
Thanks for this! You’ve abridged the information in one succinct article! Your method of writing is very easy to read, and I image being there – which is a talent. Looking forward to you next travel post, all the best!
I’m so glad to hear that the article was valuable to you, Jaya. I hope you get to visit soon ~ Petra is a really amazing place!
Greetings Tanya,
Love your blog and your enthusiasm for travel & adventure! Many thanks for sharing and I trust that you have numerous more exciting trips planned for 2018! 🙂
Thanks Heena! We loved it out there ~ there’s so much to see.
I can imagine the excitement you must have felt on entering the 1km narrow gorge that precedes the famous treasury facade! 🙂
I follow your blog religiously, and must say your posts and photographs are wonderful, Tanya!
Thanks for your lovely comment, Priya. 🙂
Petra is a beauty, Tanya! Love finding little gems like this. These pics and especially your videos really make me want to head to Jordan… Might have to add it to the list for next year. xx
We certainly spent the most magical time in Petra this summer, Reetu.
Just because you can’t get on a plane, doesn’t mean you can’t escape… Your blog is my “armchair travel guide” to the world! ❤️
I have a question though, did you feel safe travelling through Jordan?
Aw ~ thank you, Sarabjeet. I can’t recommend Petra enough ~ it truly is the most incredible place on the planet!
On that note, I think many people have been put off visiting ~ but Jordan seemed perfectly safe to me, and it would be a shame for people to miss out on an opportunity to visit Petra.
Wow! This is so beautifully written! ❤️
I remember that day as if it just happened. We arrived in Jordan and I was amazed at the landscapes and the people. We got to Petra and it was so fascinating… I have never in my life seen anything like it!
I love exploring places such as this, Tanya… so peaceful to disconnect.
The world famous archaeological site of Petra in Jordan! The numerous façade carved in the rocks, referable mostly to sepulchres, make it a unique monument. Wishing you a great experience in your next journey, Tanya!
From all the books I’ve read so far, the best stories are found between the pages of my passport, Shalini. 🙂
A rose-red city, half as old as time…. In love with this canyon ❤️ there can be nothing more beautiful!
Indeed.
This is beyond words… well done, Tanya!
There are lots of great hikes in Petra with great views. The members of the Bedouin tribe used to live in the caves of Petra till they were resettled nearby. Most of them act as tour guides now giving donkey, camel and hiking tours. I even got to stay in one of their homes during my trip. 🙂
Thanks for your comment, Ishani. Glad to know you had a great time as well.
Very different from the regular posts I see… nice work! 🙂
Carved into the mountains, the Monastery is a much more imposing structure compared to its famous cousin, The Treasury (in my opinion). The view of the Monastery was well worth the half hour uphill hike to get there. Bonus is that there were very few tourists early that morning…
It was surreal walking up the trail, Mishti.
Petra is well-deserving of its spot on the New Seven Wonders of the World list. 🙂 Full of pit-stops and photo ops, the mesmerising main trail took me about 3 to 4 hours to complete. Once I reached the top part/final stop on the map, I kept walking further and saw all the beautiful mountains behind. The view was worth it! ❤️
This ancient city carved into the red sandstone hills is an amazing destination!
What an amazing blog! ❤️ The inclusion of the camels in your photos really impacts the mood. Great choice. 🙂
Thank you, Harshida.
Petra has always been on my top travel destinations and I finally had the chance to visit last year. 🙂 As a kid I always loved adventure. Instead of sitting inside watching TV, I would be outside playing sports, exploring the woods and climbing trees… That’s why I love this place.
Carved right into the sandstone, Petra makes you feel exactly like what it must have felt to live like the Bedouins all those years ago, Shana.
Vikram looks like he’s having a meditative moment and enjoying the view of the stunning Treasury in the ancient lost city of Petra in Jordan… 🙂 Breathtaking, magical and other worldly are the only words to describe this place which is so vast. Thank you for sharing.
Everyone should visit this place, a must see and expect to walk miles if you wish to grasp it fully, Chitra.
Peace and balance… ❤️ Visiting Petra in the 19th century when it was rediscovered by Jean Louis Burckhardt meant going in disguise, speaking in local dialect and earning the trust of the surrounding tribes-people. Over the years, travelling to Jordan has become a much simpler affair. 🙂 Would love to visit here someday…
If you’re looking for that ‘wow’ moment, definitely put Petra on your bucket list, Preksha!