The Bab as-Siq and the Siq itself (total 2km) is the first test that all Petra explorers must pass if they ever want to set foot to the Ancient City of Petra. It was a great long walk and helped to build up my anticipation of what to expect in Petra!

 

At the end of the Siq, this is perhaps the first monument that most visitors will see when entering the ancient city of Petra. In fact most people, including myself, saw this way before arriving in Jordan from the film Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade... one of the reasons that got me to Petra!

 

First the Siq, then the Treasury, next on the plate is the Royal Tombs or in fact a series of structures carved into the base of El-Khubtha mountain. These tombs are remarkable for the sheer size and the vivid color rippling through their sandstone walls...  

 

After passing the Siq and the Treasury is a wide plain where the ruins of the city of Petra are. At first you think it is more like any Roman Ruins, but it is the unique color and structure of the rock and the Nabataeans architecture that makes Petra stand out from others.

 

After spending 40 minutes (and thousands of KJs) you will be awarded with a spectacular sight of one of the best monuments in Petra. The Monastery recently came under the spotlight after the movie Transformers: The revenge of the fallen was released. I personally think it is worth the time and energy of the climb. A must if you go to Petra! 

 

 

This is said to be the most accessible of all sacrificial places high in the mountain. Took at least 45 minutes and marginally easier(?) to hike up than to the Monastery. Indeed I have sacrificed lots of sweat and energy for to reach such place, but at the end couldn't find the altar, maybe I did not sacrifice enough? 

 

An alternative and yet a magical way to explore the Siq at night. You begin walking along the Siq lighted up by hundreds of candles all the way to the Treasury, where you will be served with mint tea and some Bedouin performance. For 12 JD, the highlight was not on the performance itself but really was a chance to experience the tranquillity and darkness of walking in the dark, with only the candles and the stars with you. 

 

If you have the budget to stay in the top luxurious hotels, then Movenpick or Crowne Plaza is definitely a good choice as it is right next to the entrance of the Siq. For most people, staying in Wadi Musa is probably the only choice (camping in Petra is not allowed!), it is only a short taxi ride away and let you get a glimpse of a normal town centre in Jordan.

 

Not sure if they surely live here but these unfortunate animals got to work here everyday