The ancient city of Petra in Jordan is one of the world’s most breathtaking archaeological wonders. Due to the pinkish hue of its rock-cut facades, it is often referred to as the “Rose City”. While most visitors marvel at the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh) and the Monastery (Ad-Deir), Petra is also home to a series of viewpoints. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers unforgettable perspectives. Here is a list of the top 10 Petra viewpoints that should be on your list of priorities, whether you are an avid biker, a photographer, or simply someone who loves to soak in awe-inspiring vistas.
1. The Treasury from Above (Al-Khubtha Trail)
This overlook, perhaps the most famous viewpoint in Petra, gives you a bird’s-eye view of the treasury. The Al-Khubtha Trail involves a moderate hike of around 1-1.5 hours each way, but the reward is spectacular: it consists of a balcony-like ledge where you can gaze down at the majestic facade framed by canyon walls.
2. The Monastery Viewpoint
Although the Monastery is an impressive sight, climbing up the nearby hills reveals even more dramatic panoramas. It gives you an opportunity to admire the monument in isolation, with rugged cliffs surrounding it from several vantage points above Ad-Deir. It is considered a favourite spot for sunset as the warm light makes the carved stone glow.
3. High Place of Sacrifice
It is one of the highest accessible altars in Petra, historically used for religious rituals. Its climb is steep, but from the summit you’ll enjoy wide views over the valley, which includes the Theater, Royal Tombs, and parts of the Siq. It is an excellent way to appreciate the scale of the city.
4. Al-Habis Mountain
Al-Habis Mountain, located near the Petra Museum, offers a quieter yet rewarding climb. There are remnants of a Crusader-era fortress on top and panoramic views across the main valley. There are very few tourists who flock to this site, making it an ideal viewpoint for you to escape the crowds.
5. Royal Tom’s Balcony
The Royal Tombs complex, located opposite the Treasury, features several tombs carved into the cliffs. On climbing up to the Urn Tomb or the Palace Tomb, you will be rewarded with views of the Colonnaded Street and the Great Temple below. The balcony of the Urn Tomb is particularly scenic.
6. The Theatre Overlook
Petra’s 3,000-seat Nabataean theatre offers a view from a ledge near the Street of Facades. This perspective gives a sneak peek of how the ancient builders carved the auditorium directly into the hook, unlike Roman theatres that were constructed from stone blocks.
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7. The Great Temple Terrace
It provides a unique viewpoint of the Great Temple, which looks impressive when climbing onto its terrace. Qasr al-Bint temple is visible across the Colonnaded Street with the surrounding mountains framing the archaeological landscape.
8. Back Route to the Monastery
The monastery can be reached via the back route from Little Petra instead of climbing the standard 800 steps. High ridges and dramatic rock formations are seen along the way. Desert views are visible along with a grand reveal of the Monastery when approached from top.
9. The Treasury from the Siq
Although it is technically called the classic view, you get a first glimpse of treasury from the narrow canyon of the Siq. The framing of the monument between towering cliffs is one of the most iconic travel moments anywhere in the world.
10. Jebel Haroun (Mount Aaron)
Experienced hikers for the ultimate Petra viewpoint can take on the challenging trek to Jebel Haroun, the highest peak in the region. It is believed to be the burial site of Aaron, brother of Moses at 1,350 metres. The Petra valleys are visible from the summit, and the desert stretches into the distance.
Conclusion
Exploring Petra is about discovering the vantage points apart from visiting its monuments that reveals the city’s scale, beauty, and setting within rugged desert mountains. Each viewpoint, ranging from iconic perspectives like the Treasury overlook to hidden gems such as Al-Habis Mountain, offers a unique angle on this ancient wonder. To appreciate Petra, take your time out for the hikes and climbs to bring back memories and photos that will last a lifetime.
