Jordan Petra Treasury by Night: An Enchanting Evening Experience
Witnessing the Jordan Petra Treasury by Night transforms an ancient archaeological site into a magical spectacle illuminated by thousands of candles. This unique experience allows visitors to walk the Siq canyon path under starlight before emerging into the open plaza facing the dramatically lit Treasury facade. Your evening adventure combines Nabatean history with atmospheric lighting for unforgettable memories and photography opportunities.
Essential Information About Petra
Petra served as the capital city for the Nabatean civilization from the 4th century BC until Roman annexation in 106 AD. The Treasury itself functioned as a royal tomb and ceremonial site carved directly into rose-red sandstone cliffs. This UNESCO World Heritage Site spans over 100 square miles with numerous tombs, temples, and structures beyond the famous Treasury.
Historical Significance of the Treasury
The Treasury’s elaborate facade reflects Hellenistic architectural influences blended with Nabatean craftsmanship and symbolism. Contrary to its name, the structure never stored treasure but served as a mausoleum for King Aretas IV. Its preservation stems from the dry desert climate and its position within a protective canyon.
What Makes the Night Show Special
The Petra night experience creates a completely different atmosphere from daytime visits through carefully orchestrated elements. Thousands of candles line the pathway through the Siq and surround the Treasury plaza. Traditional Bedouin music performances and storytelling sessions enhance the cultural immersion under the desert night sky.
- Candlelit pathway creates dramatic shadows and highlights on sandstone formations throughout the 1.2 kilometer walk from entrance to Treasury.
- Bedouin musicians play traditional instruments like the rababa and sing historical ballads about Petra’s past in both Arabic and English.
- The Treasury facade illumination uses strategic lighting angles to emphasize architectural details invisible during daylight hours.
- Budget travelers spend $50-75 daily using hostel dormitories, self-guided tours, and local eateries while purchasing the $24 night show ticket separately.
- Mid-range visitors allocate $100-150 daily for hotel rooms with breakfast, guided day tours, and restaurant dinners plus the night experience.
- Luxury experiences cost $200-300+ daily featuring five-star resorts, private guides, fine dining, and premium night show seating arrangements.
- Jordan Tourism Board
- Lonely Planet Petra Guide
Key Facts and Figures
Petra receives approximately one million visitors annually with the night show operating three times weekly throughout most of the year. The Treasury stands 40 meters high and 25 meters wide carved from a single rock face. Night show capacity limits to 400 visitors per session to maintain the intimate atmosphere.
Planning Your Jordan Petra Treasury by Night Visit
Successful Jordan Petra Treasury by Night experiences require careful timing and advance preparation due to limited availability and specific operating schedules. The night show typically runs Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings with additional nights during peak seasons. Booking through official channels 2-3 weeks ahead ensures ticket availability while avoiding disappointment.
Best Time to Visit Petra for the Night Show
Visit Petra between March and May or September and November for ideal night show conditions with pleasant temperatures ranging 60-75°F (15-24°C). These shoulder seasons offer comfortable walking weather and clearer skies for stargazing. Summer months bring extreme heat exceeding 95°F (35°C) while winter nights can drop below freezing.
December through February sees fewer crowds but requires warm clothing for the evening experience. July and August offer the clearest skies though temperatures remain high until late evening. Check the lunar calendar as full moon nights provide natural illumination while new moons enhance candlelight effects.
Budget Planning and Costs
Petra visit costs vary significantly based on accommodation choices and tour inclusions.
Essential Preparation Checklist
Pack sturdy walking shoes with good traction for the uneven sandstone path and a jacket for desert temperature drops after sunset. Bring a camera with night mode capability, extra memory cards, and a small tripod for sharp Treasury photos. Carry a reusable water bottle as plastic bottles aren’t permitted during the night show.
Secure Jordanian visas in advance for most Western passport holders either online or through embassy applications. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering archaeological site visits and desert hiking activities. Download offline maps and translation apps since cellular service remains limited within the Petra archaeological park.
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Top Attractions and Activities in Petra
Petra offers numerous incredible sites beyond the Treasury requiring multiple days to fully appreciate the scale of this ancient city. The main trail extends 8 kilometers roundtrip with significant elevation changes and hundreds of steps to reach upper viewpoints. Many visitors combine a full day exploration with the separate night show ticket for comprehensive experiences.
Must-See Highlights During the Day
The Monastery presents Petra’s largest facade accessible via 800 steps with panoramic desert views from the summit. Royal Tombs feature elaborate carvings and burial chambers while the Street of Facades displays rows of Nabatean tombs. The Roman Theater carved into mountainside stone once seated 3,000 spectators for performances.
Visit the Great Temple complex to see excavated Nabatean administrative buildings and ceremonial spaces. The Colonnaded Street marks the ancient city center with original pavement stones and reconstructed columns. The Qasr al-Bint temple represents one of few free-standing structures surviving from the Nabatean period.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
The High Place of Sacrifice requires a steep climb but rewards with altar remains and exceptional valley vistas. Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) features similar rock-cut architecture with fewer visitors located 15 minutes north. Wadi Musa town offers authentic restaurants and shops where local families dine away from tourist areas.
Bedouin camps in the surrounding mountains provide tea hospitality and storytelling about Petra’s discovery. The Museum at the Visitor Center displays artifacts explaining Nabatean culture and trading networks. Early morning photography sessions capture the Treasury facade in warm sunlight before crowds arrive.
Combining Day and Night Experiences
Purchase the Jordan Pass which includes Petra entry for 1-3 days plus the night show at discounted rates. Start early to hike to the Monastery before midday heat then descend for afternoon Treasury viewing. Rest at your hotel before returning for the night show with fresh energy and camera equipment.
Practical Travel Information for Petra
Petra’s location in southern Jordan requires planning for transportation, accommodation, and site access. Most international visitors fly into Queen Alia International Airport in Amman then travel south 3-4 hours by road. The nearest town Wadi Musa offers various lodging options from budget hostels to luxury resorts with shuttle services.
| Accommodation Type | Features and Amenities | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Hostels | Dormitory rooms, shared bathrooms, basic breakfast, social atmosphere | $15-40 per night |
| Mid-Range Hotels | Private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, swimming pools, restaurant options | $60-120 per night |
| Luxury Resorts | Spacious suites, spa facilities, multiple dining venues, guided tour arrangements | $150-300+ per night |
| Bedouin Camps | Traditional tent accommodation, cultural experiences, desert locations | $50-100 per night |
