Located in the western part of Saudi Arabia in the Hejaz area, the city of Al Bahah is the capital of the Al Bahah region and a popular tourist destination. It is also known as the ‘Garden of Hejaz’ by the Sharif of Makkah. Al Bahah has a distinct landscape and features a cool and humid climate during summers. There are several beautiful places to visit in Al Bahah as the city is dotted with many steep cliffs and high mountains rising above 2000 m.
The province has several ancient mining sites and is primarily inhabited by the native tribes of Saudi Arabia. It is covered by 53 forests and wildlife areas and has various small and charming traditional villages. When touring the city, travellers will also come across many distinctive stone-made towers in the region that gave it the name ‘the region of 1001 towers.’ Other famous destinations that attract tourists from all parts of Saudi Arabia and other countries include:
The Best Places To Visit In Al Bahah
1. The marble village of Dhee Ayn
The village of Dhee Ayn is built on a white glistening stone hill that stands in sharp contrast with the grey stones used in constructing houses in the area. The technique used for building homes in the region is rather unique and involves the stacking of flat stones on top of each other. It was built about 400 years ago around the 10th century and is named after an Ayn (water spring) that flows from its majestic mountains to the lakes and reservoirs. The site is surrounded by lush vegetation and features narrow pathways dotted with slate towers and impressive stones. With a treasure of knowledge and rich history, the village is indeed one of the most enchanting places to visit in Al Bahah.
2. Raghadan Forest Park
Raghadan Forest Park is a popular tourist destination to visit in Al Bahah surrounded by lush green vegetation and cascading waterfalls. The park has natural beauty in abundance, a sense of tranquility, and a small zoo. Located on a rocky slope 1700 m above sea level, the site is home to hundreds of perennial juniper trees covering 90 per cent of its landscape. The forest features stone pathways for the convenience of tourists and has many entertainment areas, gathering places, and paragliding facilities. Also, it is equipped with special lighting effects to highlight the standout features of the park’s waterfalls.
3. Shada Mountains
A popular place to visit in Al Bahah, Shada Mountains have a rustic charm. The tourist spot has two mountains, Shada Al-Asfal (lower shada) and Shada Al-Ala (upper shada) that rises 1700 m above sea level. The place has a unique geographical formation and looks as if it houses buildings carved out of mountains. Dense with vegetation, the tourist site has several caves featuring drawings and inscriptions, some of which are almost 3000 years old. Moreover, Shada Mountains are loved by hikers and climbers seeking thrill and adventure.
4. Al Kharrara Waterfall
Located 30 km away from the main city, the Al Kharrara waterfall presents breathtaking scenery to tourists visiting this place. The destination features a stream rushing through the mountains and is surrounded by tall, dense, green trees. With pleasant weather throughout the year, the Al Kharrara waterfall offers a sense of peace and calmness to visitors. It is a well-known tourist spot and is especially frequented by people visiting the province of Al Bahah with children.
5. Wadi Al Janabeen Dam
Wadi Al Janabeen Dam is the biggest dam in the region and a must-visit place in Al Bahah. Located about 60 km away from the Al Bahah city area, the dam provides water to the neighbouring areas, including the Baljurashi region located in Wadi Janabin. The site has a perfect view, clear waters, and pleasant weather that attract tourists visiting the city. There is a park associated with the dam area where local people gather to enjoy family picnics. The tourist site has a stunning landscape and is surrounded by beautiful olive and juniper trees.
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6. Al Khulb Park and Restaurant
Situated in the middle of the valley, Al Khulb Park and Restaurant is an hour-long drive away from Al Bahah and offers scenic views to tourists. It is known for its delicious food and beautiful architecture and is also a famous tourist place to visit in Al Bahah. Al Khulb Park and Restaurant is spread in a large area and features a beautiful and small stream. With mesmerizing views and green surroundings, the place is a must-visit site for tourists to unwind and relax.
7. Prince Hussam Park
With enchanting scenery, green landscapes, interactive waterfalls, and an artificial lake, Prince Hussam Park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Al Bahah. It offers scenic views of the city and Tihami sector located on its other side. The park features a prayer area for men and women, three kiosks, one playground, and a parking space for the convenience of visitors. Spread over an area of 1,60,000 sq m the place has 36 sitting spaces, 1400 trees, 4,000 shrubs, and a theatre with the capacity to accommodate up to 1000 people. It is named after the prince, Emir Prince Hussam Bin Saud.
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The city of Al Bahah lies between Makkah and Aseer and is one of the smallest provinces in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is situated in an area populated by lush green trees and features several valleys and mountains that attract tourists from Saudi Arabia as well as other countries in the Middle East and across the world. It is truly one of the most exciting cities to visit in Saudi Arabia. People visiting the city should visit the above-mentioned places in Al Bahah to make the most of their journey.
Al Bahah Tourist Attractions FAQs
What is the best time to visit Al Bahah?
The city of Al Bahah features a humid and nice climate for the most part of the year. Tourists visiting the city should make a plan between early June and late September.
Is travelling to Al Bahah safe?
Al Bahah features some winding zig-zag roads and rocky and uneven terrain. People visiting the city in their vehicles should practice caution on the road.
Are there good places to stay in Al Bahah?
There are many decent hotels in the city. From five-star hotels to economic lodgings, there is something for everyone in Al Bahah.
Which are the busiest and least crowded months to tour Al Bahah?
Most people taking the tour of the Al Bahah region visit the city between November and January. The prices of hotels and flights are also high during these months. Those touring the city during August are unlikely to face crowds as very few people come to Al Bahah around this time of the year.
How long does it take to reach Al Bahah from Makkah?
Al Bahah is located between Makkah and Aseer in Saudi Arabia. Travellers visiting the city from Makkah can reach their destination in approximately 4 hours.
