The Monastery (Ad Deir) (Petra) FAQs In 2024

What is The Monastery (Ad Deir)?

The Monastery, also known as Ad Deir, is a monumental building carved out of rock in the ancient Jordanian city of Petra. Believed to have been built in the 3rd century BCE as a Nabataean temple, it later served as a Christian monastery, which is where it gets its current name. Its large facade and remote location within the site have made it one of Petra's most iconic and visited landmarks.

The Monastery is located within the Petra Archaeological Park. Visitors typically enter the park at the Visitor Centre and walk through the Siq, a narrow gorge, to reach the ancient city center. From there, it's a steep climb up approximately 800 steps to reach The Monastery. It takes about 45 minutes to an hour to ascend, depending on your pace and the weather conditions.

The best time to visit Ad Deir is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat of midday. The light is also particularly beautiful for photography during these times. Petra's peak tourist season is from March to May and from September to November, so visiting outside of these months can result in a less crowded experience.

A guide is not strictly necessary to visit The Monastery since the path is well-marked, but hiring a local guide can enrich your visit with historical context, insights into the architecture, and stories about the Nabataean civilization. Some visitors also appreciate having a guide for the hike up to The Monastery for assistance and support.

There is no separate entrance fee for The Monastery. However, visitors must purchase a ticket to enter Petra Archaeological Park, where The Monastery is located. There are different ticket options available, including one-day, two-day, and three-day passes. It's advisable to check the latest prices and purchase options before your visit.

Yes, it is possible to hire a donkey to ride most of the way up to The Monastery. Camels are available for rides within other parts of Petra, but due to the steps, they aren't a practical option for reaching Ad Deir. If you choose to ride a donkey, make sure to negotiate the price beforehand and be aware of the animal's welfare.

When visiting The Monastery, it's essential to bring water, sun protection (such as sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses), comfortable walking shoes, and a camera. Snacks or a packed lunch might be a good idea since there are limited places to purchase food within the park. Remember to carry cash if you plan to buy souvenirs or hire transportation or a guide.

Facilities near The Monastery are limited, but there is a small café where you can purchase refreshments and light snacks. Restroom facilities are also available nearby. Do note that these facilities are quite basic compared to what you might find in more developed tourist areas.

Visitors should allocate at least 2 to 3 hours for the round trip visit to The Monastery from the Petra city center. This includes the time for the hike up and down the steps, time spent admiring the structure, and any breaks you may take along the way. If you want to spend more time exploring the surrounding area or taking an extended photo session, you may need to allocate additional time.

There are no specific restrictions on visiting The Monastery; however, visitors are expected to respect the archaeological site by not touching or climbing on the ancient structures to prevent damage. It is also advisable to follow any instructions or regulations provided by the park authorities to ensure a safe and respectful visit.

The Monastery Ad Deir Faqs

10 FAQS on The Monastery (Ad Deir)

Other Places to Visit in Petra

Explore Places to Visit Near The Monastery (Ad Deir) by Type

Other Suggested Reads for The Monastery (Ad Deir)