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Ad-Deir (The Monastery)

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Ad-Deir, commonly referred to as 'The Monastery,' is one of the largest and most spectacular monuments in Petra, situated high in the mountains far from the main city center. Architecturally similar to the famous Al-Khazneh, it is significantly larger, measuring 48 meters wide and 47 meters high, making it one of the grandest facades in the Nabataean kingdom. Carved during the mid-1st century AD, it was likely used for religious ceremonies or as a shrine for a deified monarch, possibly King Obodas I. The name 'Monastery' was given much later by locals during the Byzantine era, when the internal chamber was converted into a church, evidenced by crosses carved into the interior walls. Reaching Ad-Deir requires a strenuous hike up approximately 800 rock-cut steps, leading to a vast open courtyard and sweeping views over the Wadi Araba desert. Its unadorned yet massive facade is crowned by a giant urn that stands over 9 meters tall, symbolizing the incredible engineering capabilities of the ancient Nabataeans.

Location: Jordan
Top sights: Jeep drop off point for hiking to Petra back door. · Lion Triclinium · Monastery (Ad Deir)
Nearby: Wadi Dhana / Feynan (25 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	6	8	11	15	20	23	25	25	23	19	13	8
Rain mm	45	36	19	10	4	0	0	0	1	7	15	26

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The monument can be visited, but access is only possible on foot via a strenuous climb of over 800 steps. The facade is freely viewable from the outside, while the interior is typically empty and not open to visitors.

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Typical hours

The Petra archaeological park is typically open daily from early morning until sunset. It is advisable to start the climb early in the morning to avoid the heat.

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Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the site, but using a tripod may not be permitted. The best time for photos is late afternoon when the light paints the facade golden.

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Time needed

Allow at least 2 to 3 hours for the climb and the visit to the monument. The path is rocky and requires good footwear and plenty of water.

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Combine with

Combine the visit with other Petra highlights like the Treasury (Al-Khazneh) and the High Place of Sacrifice. The entire site is vast, so plan for a full day.

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Getting there

Access is via the main entrance of Petra, from where you walk through the Siq to the Treasury and then continue to the over 800 steps. There is no cable car or vehicle option for the climb.

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Insider tip

Hire a local guide at the entrance who will not only show you the way but also share fascinating stories about the history. Definitely bring plenty of water and a sun hat.

Geography

Coordinates

30.33850, 35.43200

Facts

The facade is nearly 10 meters wider than Al-Khazneh's.
It was built around 50 AD, during the reign of Malichus II.
The 800 steps take about 45-60 minutes to climb for most hikers.
Evidence of a colonnaded courtyard exists in front of the structure.
The interior crosses indicate it was used by Christian monks.
The urn at the top is a solid stone carving, not a hollow vessel.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Great Temple of Petra2 km · NWExplore →

The Siq3 km · NWExplore →

Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)3 km · EExplore →

Mount Aaron (Jabal Haroun)4 km · SWExplore →

Sharah Mountains6 km · NExplore →

Shobak Castle23 km · NEExplore →

Wadi Ghuweir25 km · NEExplore →

Wadi Dhana / Feynan25 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Ad-Deir (The Monastery) (3)

Jeep drop off point for hiking to Petra back door.📍 landmark

The starting point for 4x4 vehicles that take hikers to the northern trail for Petra's back entrance.

Lion Triclinium 🏺 historical

A Nabataean rock-cut tomb named after the two prominent lion reliefs flanking the entrance.

Monastery (Ad Deir)📍 landmark

One of Petra's largest monuments, this massive rock-cut facade is significantly wider than the Treasury.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How many steps must be climbed to the Monastery?

There are approximately 800 to 850 steps carved into the rock.

Is the climb suitable for children?

Yes, for active kids it's doable, but plan for many breaks and water.

Are there refreshments at the top?

Yes, there is a cafe directly opposite the Monastery with a fantastic view.

When is the best time for the climb?

Late afternoon, when the path is in shade and the Monastery is lit by the sun.

Is Ad-Deir larger than the Treasury?

Yes, the Monastery is wider (50m) and higher (45m) than Al-Khazneh.

Ad-Deir (The Monastery): where is it located?

Ad-Deir (The Monastery) is located in Jordan.

Ad-Deir (The Monastery): what is there to see?

Highlights include Jeep drop off point for hiking to Petra back door., Lion Triclinium, Monastery (Ad Deir).

Ad-Deir (The Monastery): when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

Ad-Deir (The Monastery): why is it worth visiting?

Ad-Deir, commonly referred to as 'The Monastery,' is one of the largest and most spectacular monuments in Petra, situated high in the mountains far from the main city center.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Ad-Deir (The Monastery)

Best time to visit & climate