Jordan is a land filled with history, wonder, and breathtaking sights, and one of its most famous treasures is Petra. Known as the “Rose City” due to the color of its stone, Petra has captured the imagination of travelers for centuries. While the main site of Petra is remarkable during the day, visiting Petra at night and exploring Little Petra offer unique experiences that you won’t forget. Here are some key things to know when planning these magical visits.
Petra at night is an enchanting way to see this ancient city. On select evenings, the Siq (the narrow gorge leading to Petra) and the Treasury are illuminated with hundreds of candles. The soft glow creates a magical atmosphere, transporting visitors back in time. The evening begins with a walk through the candlelit Siq, accompanied by the sound of traditional Bedouin music. Once you reach the Treasury, you can sit down, relax, and listen to storytelling or music as the candles flicker in the night.
This event typically runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, but it’s always a good idea to confirm the schedule in advance. Tickets can be purchased separately from the daytime entry fee, and they are available at the Petra Visitor Center or your hotel. Make sure to arrive early, as the walk to the Treasury takes about 30 minutes and you won’t want to miss the start of the event.
Tips for Enjoying Petra at Night
To fully enjoy Petra at night, wear comfortable shoes and bring a flashlight. The path through the Siq is uneven, and while the candles provide some light, it’s best to have extra visibility. Dress warmly, especially in the cooler months, as temperatures can drop in the desert at night. Finally, remember that this event is popular, so it’s best to manage expectations about the crowd size.
Exploring Little Petra
Just a short drive from Petra lies Little Petra, or Al-Beidha, a smaller archaeological site that offers a quieter experience. Thought to have been a suburb of Petra, Little Petra was used as a trading hub and rest stop for caravans. It has similar carved facades, narrow gorges, and ancient structures, but on a smaller scale.
The site is free to enter, and it is much less crowded than Petra, making it an ideal place to explore at your own pace. You’ll find carved buildings, water channels, and even painted ceilings that have survived for centuries. Little Petra is an excellent place to learn about Nabatean life and culture without the hustle of larger crowds.
Best Times to Visit Little Petra
Little Petra can be visited at any time of day, but mornings and late afternoons are the most pleasant. The site is open to visitors daily, and because it is not as busy as Petra, you can enjoy a relaxed and intimate experience. Hiring a local guide is a great way to uncover the history and hidden details of this remarkable place.
Combining Petra and Little Petra
If your schedule allows, consider visiting Petra during the day, then experiencing Petra at night for a completely different perspective. On another day, explore Little Petra to round out your visit. The two sites are close enough to be combined into one trip, but each offers something unique. Many travelers choose to stay in Wadi Musa, the town near Petra, which has plenty of accommodations and dining options to suit various budgets.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Petra at night and Little Petra gives you the chance to see Jordan’s history and beauty from different angles. Whether you’re marveling at the candlelit Treasury or walking through the quiet paths of Little Petra, these experiences will stay with you forever. By planning ahead and embracing the magic of these ancient sites, your trip to Jordan will be truly unforgettable.
