Ad-Deir, the Monastery, is the great finale of a day in Petra. It stands at the top of a plateau above the far end of the ancient city, and the only way up is a stepped path cut into the mountain, usually counted at around 800 steps, winding through a gorge past small tombs and Bedouin stalls. The facade itself is larger than the Treasury and plainer, a huge classical front carved from the cliff with a great urn on top, and it sits in a wide open space with room to sit and stare. A short walk beyond it brings you to viewpoints looking west over the mountains toward Wadi Araba. The Monastery is included in your Petra ticket, and there is a small café facing it for a well-earned drink.
How it works: walk through the Siq, past the Treasury and along the colonnaded street to the Basin restaurant area, where the stairway begins. Allow at least an hour each way from the Treasury, plus the climb itself, which takes most people forty minutes to an hour.
What to expect: the steps are uneven and the path has little shade until late afternoon. Donkeys are offered for the climb, but the steps are steep and the animals’ welfare is a real concern, so walking is the better choice if you are able.
Making the most of it: climb in the afternoon when the stairway falls into shade and the facade glows in the low sun, or do it first thing on day two of a multi-day ticket. Keep enough time and energy for the long walk back to the gate before closing.
What to expect
The experience
A steep stepped climb from the city centre to a plateau with the Monastery and viewpoints beyond.
Best time
Mid to late afternoon, when the stairway is in shade and the facade is lit.
How long
Three to four hours there and back from the Treasury.
Tips
Take plenty of water, walk rather than ride a donkey, and keep time for the long walk out.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Fit walkers who want the grandest monument and the best views in Petra.
- Families
- Possible with older children who walk well; hard going for little ones.
- Couples
- Watching the facade turn gold in late light is the romantic high point of Petra.
- Pair with
- The Siq and Treasury on the way in, or the back trail from Little Petra.
- Time needed
- Half a day within your Petra visit.
Good questions
How many steps are there to the Monastery?+
It is usually counted at around 800 rock-cut steps from the city centre to the plateau.
Is the Monastery included in the Petra ticket?+
Yes, it is part of the archaeological park and needs no separate ticket.
How long does the climb take?+
Most people take forty minutes to an hour to climb, plus about an hour’s walk from the Treasury to the foot of the steps.
Should I ride a donkey up?+
Walking is better if you can; the steps are steep and animal welfare is a real concern.
Is there anywhere to eat at the top?+
Yes, a small café faces the Monastery, but carry water and snacks for the climb.
