Fahd Batayneh فهد ب.
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Little Petra is one of the hidden gems when exploring the ancient city of Petra. It is located in the Bayda village around 9 KMs north of the Petra Visitor’s Center. It is considered one of three official entrances into the ancient rose city.
It is said that this place was the “industrial” part of the Nabatean civilization where white wine and currency were made.
The place consists of a small Siq and a small Treasury. The walking path is straight, and is 1 KM long. The place consists mainly of chambers on the ground floor and a lower floor, as well as stairs to go up. Most of the stairs on the right/left side are wiped, and it is recommended not to climb most of them.
You pass through many chambers, pass through a souvenir tent, then climb stairs up to another tent. This second tent; another souvenir store, is the end of this walking trail.
If you are into hiking, Little Petra has a hiking trail that leads to the Monastery. The trail starts by riding a 4x4 (for a fee) to go to the start of this trail. Then, you walk for around 4 KMs before you arrive at the Monastery. The trail involves stairs and muddy terrain, and walking close to cliff edges; thus caution is recommended (mainly if you are hiking with kids).
Once you arrive at the Monastery, you either return back to the drop-off point, or you continue to Qasr Albint in the Petra ancient city (another 3-3.5 KM). If you decide to return back to the drop-off point, ask about the timings of the 4x4 car so that it takes you back to Little Petra.
The hiking trail is quite clear either through stairs, or through a drawn path (using rocks). Thus, having a guide isn’t necessary.
The walking trail is served with small kiosks that sell drinks and snacks. Some folks sell souvenirs, and you may bump into folks who offer donkey rides for a fee. Make sure you have cash on you to pay as most don’t accept credit cards.
Entering Little Petra is free, but riding the 4x4 car to the start of the hiking trail comes with a fee. You can also buy tickets for the Petra ancient city here, and they accept cash or card payment.