The Legend of Jabal al Lawz

According to many scholars, historians, and Jabal al Lawz documentary, the mountain is of utmost religious significance. Prophet Moses had his legendary experience with God on the holy Mount Sinai. The potential location and the physical features of the Mount al Lawz resembles that of Mount Sinai. Additionally, the presence of an old cemetery near the mountain with thousands of gravestones strengthens the claims of Mount Al Lawz being Mount Sinai.

Please note that such claims are not factually proven.

What to do at Jabal al Lawz?

Mount Lawz is not simply a sightseeing location with panoramic views but offers a lot of activities to the tourists. The mountain has several hiking trails, archaeological sites, including a quarry of ancient importance, and a cemetery. It also has snowfall locations to enjoy winter activities.

1. Hike to the summit

Snow trekking is one of those activities that any hiker would definitely want to have on their bucket list. Trekking in Jabal al Lawz provides an enthralling hiking experience for snow lovers during the winter season. The mountain’s trekking offers opportunity to view the magnificent calm of dunes beneath fresh snow covering. There are broad hiking pathways for hikers and campers going up the peak to reach the summit. It usually takes two days to hike to the summit. There are also trails along the foothills where tourists can go snowboarding and sledding. Hikers can organize campfires during the night to warm up and re-energize after the long trek.

Trekking difficulty: Hard

Duration of the trek: 1-2 days depending upon individual’s fitness

2. Explore the fascinating archaeological sites

The mountain is associated with the land of Madayan, the place where Prophet Moses lived for significant years. The Jabal al Lawz tourism is incomplete without visiting the historical sites, including an ancient quarry and extremely old inscriptions on rock walls depicting the now-extinct bovines. There are also some rare rock paintings and remarkable sculptures in the shape of elephants on the northwest side of the mountain.

3. Visit the Jabal al Lawz cemetery

To the north of the Lawz mountain, there is an old cemetery, which many scholars and archaeologists believe is related to the ‘Golden Calf’ event. The event led to the death of around 3000 people worshiping the idol of a golden calf. The cemetery stretches over a huge area covered with varied shapes and sizes of gravestones. Some are even as big as 5 feet. Tourists fascinated with old legends make sure to visit the cemetery.

4. Enjoy the Jabal al Lawz snow

Jabal al Lawz is undoubtedly Saudi Arabia’s great spot for witnessing snow almost every year. The mountain is Saudi Arabia’s tallest peak in the northern region; hence, it experiences cold temperatures and considerable snowfall. Tourists can easily take a car ride to the Jabal al Lawz to the north of Tabuk and watch the mesmerizing landscape covered with snow.

Top snow activities: Make snowballs or a snowman, go snowboarding or sledding, organize fire camps, or even take camel rides

Suggested Read: 12 Beautiful Places To Visit In Tabuk

What is the best time to visit Jabal al Lawz?

The Jabal al Lawz weather remains moderate in summers, autumn and springs while the temperature can drop down below zero degrees in winters. The most appropriate time to experience snow in the region is during the winter season. So, the months of December and January serve as the best time to visit the mountain for winter tourism. However, one can also visit the mountain during summers to catch a respite from Saudi hot weather.

How to reach Jabal al Lawz?

Travelers can reach the mountain in approximately 2.5 hours from Tabuk by car. The route to the mountain starts from Highway 394 and follows the mountain road. Although Jabal al Lawz is visible from various locations, only one mountain road takes to the mountain top, and this mountain road is restricted for use after 2100 meters of elevation.

What is around the Almond Mountain?

Small vendors and outlets for refreshments are available along the highway roads leading to the mountain. However, once one reaches the mountain, the options get narrowed down. Hence, one is suggested to carry food and water on a trip to Mount al Lawz. On reaching the mountain, there are facilities for camel rides, snowboarding, campfire, sledding, and hiking. Car rentals are also available via the local tour and travels agencies.

Things to keep in Mind

• While visiting the mountain, be wary of the mountain weather
• During summer, wear light clothes. Do not forget jackets or windcheaters during winter.
• Irrespective of the Jabal al Lawz weather, always carry sunglasses to protect eyes from sun glare
• Wear hiking or trekking shoes if planning to climb up the slopes
• Carry food and water with you
• Cooperate with officials and staff members
• Do not wander into restricted areas
• Keep an eye on children

The slopes of Mount al Lawz are a calming relief that invite and mesmerize tourists with cool weather and the magnificent hills. The Almond mountain is one of the most significant places in Saudi Arabia to experience winter snowfall and challenging hiking trails with picturesque views and ancient inscriptions.

Image Credits: NEOM

Jabal Al Lawz FAQs

The post Jabal Al Lawz, Tabuk: The Best Place To See Snowfall In Saudi Arabia appeared first on Zamzam Blogs.

Top 7 must-visit mountains in Saudi Arabia

Mountains in Arabia are a natural retreat for locals and tourists visiting the Kingdom. Here is a comprehensive list of popular mountains in Saudi Arabia:

1. Al Souda – The highest peak in Saudi Arabia

Located within an expanding Asir National park with an area of 4,500 sq km, Al Souda is the highest mountain range in Saudi Arabia. It is a part of the Asir Mountain range. The mountains offer numerous tourist spots, with green valleys having juniper trees all around. It entails a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Rijal Almaa showcasing several forts, museum, and other old structures. In addition, the mountain offers many adventure sports due to its height and natural settings. There are several eateries and restaurants nearby the area, such as Jasmine Gardens Restaurant. However, hikers are recommended to carry essentials such as water and light snacks during the hiking trip as there are limited dining options on the mountain.

Best time to visit: March to November are the best months to visit al Souda for a vacation.

Elevation: 3000 m above sea level.

Popular activities: Al Souda offers cable car rides, hiking trails, and adventure sports for tourists visiting the mountain.

Must Read: Al Soudah: A Perfect Tourist Place In Asir, Saudi Arabia

2. Jabal Al Lawz – Ideal for trekking

Hosting a popular 2-day trek route, Jabal Al Lawz is a tall mountain near the NEOM project. The mountain houses inscriptions and remnants that are thousands of years old. It is also the territory of Arabian Ibex; hence, visitors come to watch the wildlife in their natural habitat. Promoting eco-tourism in Saudi Arabia, Jabal Al Lawz offers beautiful landscapes and mesmerizing valley views. In winters, the area gets deep snowfall apt for clicking pictures, enjoying snow activities, and admiring the beauty spread all around. Restaurants are present on the mountain’s base, but there are no eateries at the Jabal al Lawz’s summit. Hence, trekkers should carry ample food and water while performing the trek.

Best time to visit: Jabal Al Lawz conduct tourist activities throughout the year. The favorable months to experience snowfall are December and January.

Elevation: 2580 m above sea level.

Popular activities: Trekkers globally set on the 2-day trekking trail offered at the mountain

3. Al Hada Mountain – The longest cable car

Al Hada mountain is a beautiful elevation with rocky terrain near Taif city. The mountains are famous for 4.2 km long cable cars, well-paved twisting roads, and stunning landscape at the summit. Tourists can stop at the fruit market run by local vendors selling numerous fruits like pomegranates, apricots, and dates. The mountain has amusement parks offering fun-filled rides and ferris wheels. It also has many spots perfect for family picnics and getaways. The mountain is only 20 mins ride from the city of Taif. There are many restaurants along the mountain road serving authentic food and dishes.

Best time to visit: Summer is the most suitable time to travel to Al Hada mountain.

Elevation: 2000 m above sea level.

Popular activities: Taking a ride in the cable car and spending a day at the amusement park.

4. Fayfa or Fifa Mountain – For some fresh honey

Fifa mountains are about  100 km from Jazan. They are famous for their vast agricultural fields efficiently protected from soil erosion. Also known as Fayfa, these mountains feature high-rise buildings and offer modern facilities. The main attraction for tourists here are the numerous green parks and summits, including as Al Washl, Al Laghtha, and Al Surra. The mountains are also popular for fresh honey that is harvested and marketed in the region. Mendy Viva Mountains, Farm Restaurant, and Restaurant Countenance are some of the well-known eateries in the Fayfa mountains.

Best time to visit: July and August are the most pleasant months to visit Fifa mountains.

Elevation: 1428 m above sea level.

Popular activities: Tourists can visit a traditional market known as Al Nafia to purchase souvenirs and local specialties.

5. Mount Uhud – Battle of Muslims and Arabs

North of Madinah, Mount Uhud is the place where the battle between the Muslims and tribes of Makkah was fought. The mountain is a part of the Hejaz Mountain range. Tourists visit the mountain to watch and experience a significant battlefield in Islamic history. The mountain has the peak where the archers of Madinah or Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) army were positioned, providing a decisive edge on the battlefield. The location is only 13 km from the city center; hence has many cafes and eateries along the road.

Best time to visit: People coming to Madinah put Mount Uhud in their itinerary. The best time to visit the mountain is October to May.

Elevation: 1077 m above sea level.

Popular activities: Visit the battlefield and the grand mosque near the field.

6. Jabal Al Nour – Home to the Cave of Hira

Jabal Al Nour, or Mountain of Illumination is famous for housing the Cave of Hira. It is the place where Angel Jibril revealed the holy Quran to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Therefore, Jabal Al Nour is an important part of the history of Islam. The mountain is located 4 km from the sacred Kaaba in Masjid Al Haram and is famous tourists spot among the pilgrims visiting Makkah. Also, there are many restaurants serving authentic Saudi food near Jabal Al Nour.

Best time to visit: Apart from Hajj, the most appropriate time to visit Al Nour is November to March.

Elevation: 642 m above sea level.

Popular activities: Visiting the Cave of Hira, taking around one to two hours to climb.

Must Read: The Cave of Hira In Jabal Al Noor: History And Importance

7. Al Qarah Mountain – Hidden heritage sites

Listed in UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al Qarah Mountains offer many caves and archaeological sites nearby. Al Qarah village nestled in the mountains provides a memorable experience with a worth visiting museums. Tourists can trek the mountain space or stroll around the heritage sites. In addition, they can find a plethora of hints and signs of prehistoric Arabian tribes in the region. The hill is a bustling tourist spot; therefore, one can find numerous eateries such as Al Fariz AlShamali, Yamashita Cafe, and Showrmetna.

Best time to visit: Best times to see Al Ahsa and Al Qarah mountains are March, April, and May.

Elevation: 225 m above sea level.

Popular activities: Climbing to the Judas caves and trekking in the mountainous region.

People looking for a respite from the desert climate of Saudi Arabia tend towards the mountains. The mountains in Saudi Arabia never disappoint anyone offering pleasing views of the valley and countless tourist activities. When coming to the Kingdom, do add a few of these Saudi Arabia mountains in your itinerary.

Mountains In Saudi Arabia FAQs

The post Mountains In Saudi Arabia Are Home To Historical Peaks And Charming Vistas appeared first on Zamzam Blogs.