The City Carved in Stone

There are few places on earth that live up to their reputation as completely as Petra. The ancient Nabataean capital, carved into the rose-red sandstone cliffs of southern Jordan, is one of the world's most extraordinary archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an adventure traveller, or simply someone who wants to witness something genuinely awe-inspiring, Petra belongs on your list.

A Brief History of Petra

Petra was established as the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom — a sophisticated Arab civilisation that controlled the incense and spice trade routes between Arabia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean — from around the 4th century BCE. At its height, the city was home to tens of thousands of people and boasted temples, tombs, colonnaded streets, a sophisticated water management system, and an amphitheatre.

The city declined after the Roman annexation in 106 CE and was largely forgotten by the Western world until Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt rediscovered it in 1812. Today, only a fraction of the site has been excavated — archaeologists believe much of Petra remains buried underground.

Getting There

Petra is located near the town of Wadi Musa in southern Jordan. The main ways to reach it are:

  • From Amman: Approximately 3–3.5 hours by car or tourist bus. Several operators run daily services from the capital.
  • From Aqaba: Around 2 hours by road — a good option if you're combining Petra with the Red Sea coast.
  • JETT Bus: Jordan's reliable national bus service connects Amman and Petra regularly.

What to See Inside Petra

The Siq

Your journey begins through the Siq — a dramatic, narrow gorge stretching roughly 1.2 km, with towering sandstone walls rising up to 80 metres on either side. The anticipation builds as you walk, until the gorge suddenly opens to reveal Petra's most iconic image.

The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)

The Al-Khazneh is Petra's most photographed monument — a stunning 40-metre-high façade carved directly into the cliff face. Despite its name, it is believed to have been a royal mausoleum. The detail and scale of its Hellenistic-influenced carving are extraordinary given it was created without modern tools.

The Monastery (Ad-Deir)

Less visited but arguably even more impressive, the Monastery requires a climb of approximately 800 rock-cut steps. The reward is a monument even larger than the Treasury, set in a dramatic high plateau with sweeping desert views.

The Royal Tombs and Colonnaded Street

The Roman-era colonnaded street, the Great Temple, the amphitheatre, and the Royal Tombs all tell the story of Petra's layered history — Nabataean, Roman, and Byzantine.

Practical Tips for Visitors

  • Best time to visit: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the most comfortable temperatures. Summer is very hot; winter can be cold and occasionally wet.
  • How much time to allow: A minimum of two full days is recommended to do the site justice. One day is possible but rushed.
  • Jordan Pass: Purchasing a Jordan Pass before arrival includes the Petra entry fee and your Jordanian visa — excellent value for most travellers.
  • Wear comfortable shoes: You'll walk significant distances on uneven terrain. Sandals are not suitable.
  • Petra by Night: A candlelit evening experience through the Siq is offered several nights per week and is worth experiencing.

A Place Unlike Any Other

Petra is more than a tourist attraction — it is a monument to the ingenuity, artistry, and ambition of an ancient Arab civilisation. Walking its canyon paths connects you to thousands of years of human history in a visceral, unforgettable way. Plan carefully, go early, and give it the time it deserves.