About Place
- Petra : Known as the Rose City, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
- Wadi Rum : Described as the Valley of the Moon, this desert landscape offers stunning views and thrilling adventures.
- Dead Sea : The lowest point on Earth, famed for its buoyant waters and therapeutic mud.
Reasons to Visit
- Historical Significance : Jordan is home to ancient ruins and archaeological wonders. Petra, the crown jewel, boasts magnificent rock-cut architecture. Other significant sites include the Roman ruins of Jerash and the crusader castle at Karak, each telling a story of the region's rich past.
- Natural Beauty : From the vast, red sand dunes of Wadi Rum to the serene waters of the Dead Sea, Jordan's natural landscapes are breathtaking. The Dana Biosphere Reserve offers diverse ecosystems and hiking trails, while Aqaba provides a gateway to the stunning Red Sea coral reefs.
- Cultural Hospitality : Jordanians are known for their warm hospitality. Visitors can immerse themselves in Bedouin culture, enjoy traditional music and dance, and savor the country's delicious cuisine. The bustling markets of Amman and the local villages offer authentic experiences that highlight the country's vibrant culture.
Visa
- United States, Canada, Australia, and most EU countries : Visa on arrival for a stay of up to 30 days.
- India, China, and other Asian countries : Pre-arranged visa required.
- Middle Eastern countries : Varies, with some requiring pre-arranged visas while others can get a visa on arrival.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from destination : Approx. $1,200 per person for round-trip flights from major metro cities to Amman.
- Hotel cost : Approx. $100 per night, total for 5 nights = $500 per couple.
- Food cost : Approx. $30 per day per person, total for 6 days = $360 per couple.
- Activity cost : Entrance fees and tours, approx. $200 per person.
- Near destination travel cost : Car rental and fuel, approx. $400.
Total estimated cost : $3,160 per couple.
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Amman Arrive in Amman and check into your hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring the Citadel, with its panoramic views and historical artifacts, and the Roman Theatre, a well-preserved ancient structure. For lunch, try the traditional Jordanian dish Mansaf at Sufra Restaurant. In the evening, wander through Rainbow Street, known for its cafes, shops, and vibrant nightlife. Dinner at Al Quds Restaurant, famous for its local cuisine. Rest overnight at your hotel.
Day 2 : Amman to Jerash and Ajloun Start your day with a visit to Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns. Explore its colonnaded streets, theaters, and plazas from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Have lunch at the Lebanese House Restaurant. In the afternoon, drive to Ajloun Castle, a historic Islamic fortress offering stunning views, and spend time there from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Return to Amman in the evening and dine at Fakhr El-Din Restaurant. Overnight stay in Amman.
Day 3 : Amman to Petra Depart early for Petra. Arrive by 10:00 AM and start exploring the ancient city. Walk through the Siq to the Treasury, and continue exploring the Street of Facades, the Royal Tombs, and the Monastery. Lunch at the Basin Restaurant inside Petra. In the evening, experience Petra by Night, a magical event where the Treasury is illuminated by candlelight. Dinner at Al-Wadi Restaurant in Wadi Musa. Stay overnight in Petra.
Day 4 : Petra to Wadi Rum Head to Wadi Rum and arrive by 10:00 AM. Enjoy a jeep tour of the desert, seeing landmarks like Lawrence's Spring and the Khazali Canyon. Lunch at the Wadi Rum Rest House. In the afternoon, go for a camel ride or a hike to explore more of the desert landscape. Spend the evening in a Bedouin camp, experiencing traditional music and dinner under the stars. Overnight in a Bedouin tent.
Day 5 : Wadi Rum to Dead Sea Travel to the Dead Sea, arriving by 11:00 AM. Check into your hotel and spend the day floating in the salty waters and enjoying the therapeutic mud. Lunch at the hotel restaurant. In the afternoon, relax at the spa or poolside. Dinner at Burj Al Hamam Restaurant, known for its Middle Eastern cuisine. Overnight at the Dead Sea resort.
Day 6 : Dead Sea to Amman Return to Amman. Visit the Jordan Museum to learn about the country's history and culture from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Lunch at Hashem Restaurant, famous for its falafel and hummus. Spend the afternoon shopping at the souks or visiting the Royal Automobile Museum. Dinner at Kan Zaman Restaurant, offering traditional dishes in a historic setting. Overnight in Amman.
Safety Tips
- Respect local customs and dress modestly.
- Carry a copy of your passport and visa.
- Avoid traveling alone at night.
- Stay hydrated, especially in desert areas.
- Use reputable tour operators.
- Keep your valuables secure.
- Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- Use bottled water for drinking.
- Learn basic Arabic phrases.
- Have travel insurance.
Flights
Royal Jordanian, Emirates, and Turkish Airlines offer flights to Amman from various international airports.
Average cost is around $600 per person.
Hotels
- Amman : The Boulevard Arjaan by Rotana
- Petra : Mövenpick Resort Petra
- Wadi Rum : Sun City Camp
- Dead Sea : Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea
- Amman ( return) : Grand Hyatt Amman
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in Amman : +962 6 462 2098
- Police : 911
- Ambulance : 911
- Firefighters : 911
Country
Closet Airport
- Queen Alia International Airport (AMM)
Nearest City
- Amman
Heritage Sites
- Petra
Airlines
- Royal Jordanian
- Emirates
- Turkish Airlines
- Qatar Airways
Currency
- Jordanian Dinar (JOD)
Languages Spoken
- Arabic
Real Story
The Rediscovery of Petra : A Historical Marvel
Petra, the ancient city carved into the rose-red cliffs of southern Jordan, is a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of the Nabataeans, an Arab tribe that established their capital here over 2,000 years ago. This remarkable city, often referred to as the "Rose City" due to the color of the stone, was a significant hub for trade and commerce in the region.
The Rise of Petra : Petra's origins can be traced back to the 4th century BC when the Nabataeans, a nomadic tribe, began to settle in the area. Their strategic location along the trade routes connecting Arabia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean allowed them to control the flow of goods such as spices, silk, and incense. The Nabataeans developed advanced techniques in water conservation and management, including the construction of dams, cisterns, and aqueducts, which enabled them to thrive in the arid desert environment.
Architectural Wonders : The most iconic structure in Petra is Al-Khazneh, or the Treasury, which greets visitors at the end of the Siq, a narrow gorge that serves as the main entrance to the city. Carved directly into the rock face, the Treasury is a masterpiece of Hellenistic architecture with intricate facades that showcase a blend of Greek, Egyptian, and Mesopotamian influences.
Beyond the Treasury, Petra boasts numerous tombs, temples, and monuments, each revealing the Nabataeans' mastery of stone carving. The Monastery, another monumental structure, is similar in design to the Treasury but is even larger, offering breathtaking views over the surrounding valleys from its elevated position.
Decline and Rediscovery : Petra's prosperity continued under Roman rule after the Nabataean Kingdom was annexed by the Roman Empire in 106 AD. However, the city's importance began to wane as trade routes shifted, and by the 7th century, Petra was largely abandoned. Over the centuries, it fell into obscurity, known only to local Bedouins.
The world outside remained unaware of Petra's existence until 1812, when Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt, disguised as an Arab traveler, rediscovered the lost city. His accounts of the magnificent ruins sparked international interest and led to subsequent explorations and archaeological studies.
Cuisine
Jordanian Cuisine : A Culinary Journey
Jordanian cuisine is a vibrant and flavorful reflection of the country's rich cultural heritage and diverse influences. Rooted in Bedouin traditions, the food is characterized by the use of fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and a communal approach to dining.
Key Dishes :
- Mansaf : The national dish of Jordan, Mansaf is a traditional Bedouin meal made with lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt called jameed, and served over a bed of rice or bulgur. It is often garnished with almonds and pine nuts. Mansaf is a symbol of Jordanian hospitality and is typically served on special occasions and during family gatherings.
- Maqluba : Literally meaning "upside-down," Maqluba is a savory dish that layers rice, vegetables (such as eggplant, cauliflower, and potatoes), and meat (usually chicken or lamb). The dish is cooked in a large pot and then flipped upside down before serving, creating a visually appealing and delicious meal.
- Mezze : A selection of small dishes served as appetizers or a light meal, mezze is a cornerstone of Jordanian cuisine. Popular mezze items include hummus (a creamy chickpea dip), baba ghanoush (a smoky eggplant dip), falafel (deep-fried chickpea patties), tabbouleh (a fresh parsley and bulgur salad), and stuffed grape leaves.
Sweet Treats : Jordanian desserts are a delightful end to any meal. Knafeh is a beloved pastry made with shredded phyllo dough or semolina, soaked in sweet syrup, and layered with cheese or cream. Another favorite is baklava, a rich and sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and honey syrup.
Beverages : Traditional Jordanian beverages include mint tea and Arabic coffee, both integral to the social fabric of the country. These drinks are often served to guests as a sign of hospitality. For a refreshing treat, jallab, a sweet drink made from dates, grape molasses, and rose water, is popular, especially during the hot summer months.
Culture and History
Cultural Heritage of Jordan
Jordan's culture is a rich tapestry woven from its ancient history, Bedouin traditions, and Islamic influences. The country's diverse heritage is reflected in its customs, music, dance, cuisine, and social norms. Here, we delve deeper into these aspects to provide a comprehensive understanding of Jordanian culture and history.
Historical Influences : Jordan's strategic location at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe has made it a melting pot of civilizations. Over millennia, it has been home to various cultures, including the Nabataeans, Romans, Byzantines, and Islamic caliphates. Each of these cultures has left an indelible mark on Jordan's heritage.
Bedouin Culture : Bedouins, the nomadic desert dwellers, have significantly influenced Jordanian culture. Known for their hospitality, Bedouins welcome guests with open arms, offering traditional food and shelter. This tradition of generosity, or 'diyafa', is a cornerstone of Jordanian society.
Traditional Dress : Traditional Jordanian dress is characterized by modesty and practicality. Men often wear a "dishdasha" or "thobe" (long robe) with a "keffiyeh" or "shemagh" (headscarf). The red and white checkered keffiyeh is a national symbol. Women wear "abaya" (long dress) and sometimes a "hijab" (headscarf), though attire varies based on urban or rural settings.
Music and Dance : Music and dance are integral to Jordanian celebrations. Traditional Bedouin music features the 'rebab' (a string instrument) and 'tabla' (drum). The Dabke, a popular folk dance performed at weddings and festivals, involves rhythmic stepping and is a display of unity and joy.
Religion and Social Norms : Islam is the predominant religion, with the majority of Jordanians being Sunni Muslims. Islamic values influence daily life, social customs, and laws. Religious holidays like Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr are observed with great enthusiasm, involving fasting, feasting, and communal prayers.
Despite its Islamic foundation, Jordan is known for its religious tolerance. The country has a significant Christian minority, and places of worship for various faiths coexist peacefully.
Festivals and Celebrations : Jordan hosts numerous cultural festivals, celebrating everything from film and music to heritage and food. The Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts, held in the ancient Roman city of Jerash, is a highlight, featuring performances by local and international artists.
Modern Influences : Urban areas like Amman showcase a blend of traditional and contemporary lifestyles. While modern amenities and Western influences are evident, many Jordanians maintain strong ties to their cultural roots.
Historical Sites : Jordan is home to numerous historical sites that reflect its rich past. Petra, the ancient Nabataean city, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Other significant sites include:
- Jerash : Well-preserved Roman ruins.
- Amman Citadel : Historic site with artifacts from various eras.
- Karak and Ajloun Castles : Crusader and Islamic fortresses.
- Mount Nebo : Biblical site believed to be where Moses saw the Promised Land.
Art and Handicrafts : Jordanian artisans produce beautiful handicrafts, including pottery, embroidery, and jewelry. These items are often sold in local markets (souks) and provide a glimpse into the country's artistic heritage.