Travel Plan
The Monastery

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · PETRA

The Monastery

Ad Deir, Petra's largest monument: a 47-metre facade at the top of about 800 rock-cut steps, with views to the desert.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
3 hours
Entry
Paid (Petra ticket or Jordan Pass)
Best time
Early morning
Area
Petra

Ad Deir, a huge facade up 800 steps.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Petra Archaeological Park, Wadi Musa

  • On foot: About 800 steps from the Basin restaurant; 45–60 minutes up.
  • Donkey: Donkeys climb the steps, but many travellers prefer to walk.
  • Back trail: A longer trail from Little Petra.

The story of Ad Deir

The Monastery was carved in the 1st century AD and was probably a temple or meeting hall for the Nabataean king Obodas I. Christians later used it, which gave it its name.

At the top, cafés with views and short paths to viewpoints look over Wadi Araba toward the Dead Sea depression.

Best time to visit

Best season

Spring and autumn.

Best time of day

Start the climb early; the facade glows in afternoon light.

Summer

Climb before 10am.

Tips before you go

  • Start early; it is hot in the afternoon.
  • Carry water and snacks.
  • Walk to the "End of the World" viewpoint nearby.

Best hotels near Ad Deir

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Mövenpick Resort Petra

Right at the Petra entrance.

See prices

Petra Marriott Hotel

Hilltop views over Wadi Musa.

See prices

Hotels in Wadi Musa

All budgets near the gate.

See prices
All hotels near Ad Deir

What's around Ad Deir

  • The BasinAt the bottom of the steps.
  • Qasr al-BintTemple near the Basin.
  • Little PetraBy the back trail.

Questions travellers ask

How hard is the climb?

Moderate; steady steps for about an hour.

Is it worth it?

Yes, it is a highlight.

Are there toilets?

Yes, at the café on top.

More in Petra

The Siq

The Siq

Read the guide
The Treasury

The Treasury

Read the guide
Petra by Night

Petra by Night

Read the guide
Little Petra

Little Petra

Read the guide
Back to the Petra guide
Travel Plan · The Monastery Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure · Contact us