Al Qara Mountain is a historical landmark in Saudi Arabia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located in Al Qarah Village in the eastern province of Alhasa City. It is also known as “Jabal Al Qarah” and “Al Shaban Mountain”
It is also known as “the mountain of whistling winds” because the winds whistle when passing through it. Furthermore, it shows evidence of ancient settlements dating back to 5,000 BC.
It is one of the city’s most important natural and cultural sites in the city. It is also known for its unique hills and caves.
In addition, it is surrounded by palm trees and sand deserts, which gives it a unique look that can take your breath away.
Stick around as we embark on a journey discovering this amazing natural landmark in the biggest oasis in the world, which is known as Al Hasa.
The Temperature In Al Qara Mountain, And The Best Time To Visit:
The best time to visit Al Qara Mountain is in the morning because the temperature is cooler. Although inside the cave is cool, there are some spots where you will need to walk in the open, which allows you to be exposed to the sun. The sun can be hot in the summer so wear protective clothes and a hat.
The cave system is not as hot as the surrounding areas. It is soft and cool in the summer and warm in the winter, which is why visiting Al Qarah Mountain can be done at any time of the year.
The History Of Al Qara Mountain:
At the mountain’s entrance, you will pass through the Land of Civilization Museum. This museum will give you a glimpse of the mountain’s and its surroundings’ history. This article will cover some of the history to get you excited about your visit.
A few million years ago, Al Qara Mountain was under the sea, formed by dissolving soluble rocks. The upper rock layers collapsed due to abrasion and earthquakes, resulting in the formation of the caves.
Many passes in the caves extend underground, such as the limy dregs and limy Haliymat. They can extend ten meters in height and three meters in width.
Therefore, it is a rocky sedimentary formation that dates back to the Miocene, extending from 23 million to 5 million years, and it contains a limestone of reddish color.
Al Garah Mountain’s Dimensions And Size:
Jabel Al Qara is 1000 meters from the North to the South and 800 meters from East to West. Although this might not seem like a lot, it is spacious in real life. The caves’ system has 28 tall linear passageways extending to 1.5 kilometers in length.
The Entrance To The Mountain:
As soon as you enter the mountain’s passageway right after the Land of Civilization museum, you will be greeted with an enchanting view of the surrounding hills. It is a feast for the eyes, so get your camera ready to capture the moment.
At the entrance of Al Qara Mountain, you are 158 meters above sea level, but the mountain’s total height is 225 meters.
As you walk further, the Dilmun Kings Theater is to your left. It is a resting spot to relax and contemplate the mountain’s beauty.
In Side The Cave:
The Algara Mountain has walkways and iron railings that can safely lead you inside the caves. The cave system inside the land of civilization is easy to navigate, so you do not need to worry about getting lost.
The path gets narrower and darker as you get further inside the cave system. However, there are some spots where the sun finds its way inside the cave. Some lamps also lighten your pathway, but not inside the narrow paths.
What Else In Jabal Al Qara?
Once you exit the mountain, there is a traditional restaurant, traditional clothes shop, and a coffee shop. Here, you can try some traditional Arabic food and buy some souvenirs. There is also a pottery factor that has been there for decades.
How Much Does It Cost To Enter The Land Of Civilization?
It costs 75.5 Riyal, which is around 20 dollars. It might seem expensive, but it is totally worth it. The Al Qarah Mountain Complex opens at 8:00 a.m. every morning and closes at 9:00 p.m. on weekdays and 10:00 p.m. on weekends. However, I highly recommend visiting early in the morning.
Dougha Handmade Pottery Factory:
The Dougha Al-Gharash, who runs the factory, passed down this ancient handicraft from one generation to another.
Situated on the western face of Al Qarah Mountain, the Dougha Handmade Pottery Factory displays a variety of handmade pots made using the same traditional method used for millennia.
You can buy from the displayed souvenir or create something with the pottery wheel. I recommend you create something of your own in the pottery wheel to witness how they made pottery back in the day.
Conclusion:
Al Qara Mountain (Land of Civilization) is a hidden gem in the biggest oasis in the world, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
So, pack your bags, embark on a journey of discovery, and immerse yourself in the wonders of Jabal Al Qara. I am sure, you won’t be disapointed.
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