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Is Petra Monastery worth it?

Along with Al Khazneh/The Treasury, the most impressive monuments on the site. The problem with the Monastery is that it is much further and more difficult to reach it, on a constantly climbing route, with hundreds of steps, narrow and very crowded. But it's worth the effort, the monument is magnificent!



Yes, the Monastery (Ad Deir) is widely considered one of the most rewarding sights in Petra, Jordan, and is absolutely worth the effort required to reach it. While the "Treasury" (Al-Khazneh) is the most famous facade, the Monastery is significantly larger—measuring 47 meters wide and 48 meters high—and is located in a much more dramatic, secluded mountain setting. To get there, visitors must climb approximately 800 to 850 rock-cut stairs through a winding canyon. The hike takes about 45 to 60 minutes and offers spectacular views of the rugged desert landscape along the way. Because it is located at the far end of the archaeological site, the Monastery tends to be less crowded than the Treasury, allowing for a more peaceful and awe-inspiring experience. At the top, there is a small café where you can rest and enjoy the monumental Nabataean architecture. For most travelers in 2026, the sense of accomplishment from the climb, combined with the sheer scale and craftsmanship of the rock-cut temple, makes it the highlight of their Jordanian journey. It is best to start the hike in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the most intense desert heat.

People Also Ask

Hidden high in the hills, the Monastery is one of the legendary monuments of Petra. Similar in design to the Treasury but far bigger (50m wide and 45m high), it was built in the 3rd century BCE as a Nabataean tomb.

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Yes, Petra is definitely worth a trip! It's an incredible archaeological site with stunning architecture that's been carved out of the rocks. You'll be able to visit Petra in comfort with a tour and guide from Amman.

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While there is certainly enough to occupy yourself for five or more days, two to three days is sufficient to visit all of the highlights in and around the park. One day--or worse yet a morning or afternoon--is likely to bring some disappointment to those who have traveled a great distance.

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Distance and Difficulty: The Petra Main Trail is 8km / 5 miles return from the Visitors Centre. Easy walk, largely flat. Allow 3 – 4 hours return, including time to see the sites along the way.

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The Monastery, for example, was a temple which also featured a great dining room. There is also the Theatre, which, as its name suggests, is a theatre built after the Hellenistic fashion. There are also spaces that have been identified as markets, and an audience hall found in the Great Temple.

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The trail for the Little Petra to Petra Walk starts at the left of the car park, behind the souvenir shops (it really isn't obvious!). From here the track goes out into the desert following jeep tracks, and you pass by Bedouin tents, goats, camels and the occasional stray dog that loved menacingly barking at us.

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Camel Ride in Wadi Rum & Petra is optional for 15 JD / $ 21 USD per camel per hour. You don't need to book it in advance and can be arranged upon arrival to Petra or Wadi Rum.

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The best time to see Petra is in the early morning or late afternoon, so plan for an early start, or arrive the evening before to stay in one of the comfortable hotels in Petra.

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You can totally visit Petra by yourself—we did! If you're visiting several areas in Jordan, a tour guide and driver may simplify things, but it's certainly not a requirement.

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It is one of the largest monuments in Petra, measuring 47m wide by 48.3m high. It was built on the model of the Khazna but here the bas- reliefs are replaced by niches to house sculptures. A columned portico extends of the façade; the interior is occupied by two side benches and altar against the rear wall.

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Over time, the city was lost to the outside world. More than 500 years would pass before the ancient city was rediscovered by Western explorers. A stone block inscribed with a cross was found at the Petra Church. Today, Bedouins inhabit the area of Petra.

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It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. UNESCO has described Petra as one of the most precious cultural properties of man's cultural heritage. In 2007, Petra was voted one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Petra is a symbol of Jordan, as well as Jordan's most-visited tourist attraction.

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The best times to visit Jordan are spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). The days are warm, with temperatures between 61°F and 99°F, but the nights are cool. It's not too hot for exploring sites or hiking in the nature reserves, where flora and fauna are abundant.

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