About Petra
Petra was the capital of the Nabataeans, Arab traders who grew rich on the incense routes. They carved elaborate facades into sandstone cliffs and honored gods such as Dushara and al-Uzza, often represented by plain standing stones called betyls. Many visitors reach the city through the Siq, a narrow canyon that opens dramatically onto the Treasury. Water channels and cisterns allowed a large population to thrive in this dry and rocky landscape.
Beyond the famous facades, Petra is full of sacred spaces. Steps climb to the High Place of Sacrifice, an open air altar with sweeping views. The Qasr al-Bint temple stands in the city center, and a long staircase leads to the Monastery, a vast carved monument thought to have served religious gatherings. Later Byzantine churches show that Christianity also flourished here. Many trails reward visitors with quiet viewpoints far from the crowds.
What to see
- The Siq and the Treasury
- High Place of Sacrifice
- The Monastery (Ad Deir)
- Royal Tombs
- Qasr al-Bint temple
Visiting Petra: practical guide
- Best time
- March to May and September to November
- Hours
- Open daily, roughly 6:00 to 18:00; Petra by Night on selected evenings
- Entry
- About 50 to 90 JOD depending on days; included in the Jordan Pass
- Dress code
- Sturdy shoes, sun hat and layers
- Nearest airport
- King Hussein International Airport, Aqaba (AQJ), 125 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Buy a two or three day ticket to see the high trails
- Enter at 6:00 to have the Siq nearly to yourself
- Choose animal rides only from operators who treat animals well
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Pre-Islamic Arabian Religion tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Note that Mecca and Medina are closed to non-Muslims; visit other heritage sites instead.
- Book AlUla and Hegra visits through official channels, as access is guided.
- Dress modestly in Saudi Arabia and Jordan, covering shoulders and knees.
- Do not touch Nabataean tomb facades or inscriptions.
- Check travel advisories for Yemen, where many sites are inaccessible.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Petra?
Petra is in Wadi Musa, Ma'an Governorate, Jordan, Asia. GPS coordinates: 30.3285, 35.4444. The nearest airport is King Hussein International Airport, Aqaba (AQJ), 125 km.
What is the best time to visit Petra?
March to May and September to November
Is there an entry fee for Petra?
About 50 to 90 JOD depending on days; included in the Jordan Pass Opening hours: Open daily, roughly 6:00 to 18:00; Petra by Night on selected evenings
What should I wear when visiting Petra?
Sturdy shoes, sun hat and layers
Which religion is Petra sacred to?
Petra is sacred to Pre-Islamic Arabian Religion. Archaeological ruins. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
