High Place of Sacrifice

منصة الذبح العالية

An ancient ritual platform located high above the Petra valley with panoramic views of the archaeological site and surrounding mountains. The hike to reach it offers excellent perspectives on Petra's layout and remarkable desert landscape.

Things to do

• Hike to the Platform — Ascend the steep stone-carved steps and switchbacks from the Petra valley floor to reach the elevated ritual platform, a physically demanding but rewarding 45-minute climb.
• Examine Altar Stones — Inspect the carved channels and grooves in the platform stones that are believed to have been used in ancient Nabatean animal sacrifice rituals.
• Panoramic Photography — Capture sweeping views of the Treasury, Monastery, and surrounding Jordanian desert landscape from this elevated vantage point, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
• Study Nabatean Engineering — Observe the precision of ancient stone carving and stairway construction that allowed Nabateans to build functional structures on steep canyon walls.
• Identify Petra Landmarks — Use the elevated perspective to orient yourself to major Petra monuments below, including the Urn Tomb, Palace Tomb, and Corinthian Tomb.
• Desert Wildlife Spotting — Watch for ibex, hyrax, and native bird species that inhabit the rocky cliffs and terraced areas around the High Place.

Food to try

• Zarb (Bedouin Barbecue) — Slow-roasted lamb or chicken cooked underground with vegetables, a traditional Bedouin feast available at local restaurants in Wadi Musa village after your hike.
• Hummus with Pine Nuts — Creamy chickpea dip topped with roasted pine nuts and olive oil, a protein-rich starter found throughout Wadi Musa perfect for refueling after the climb.
• Herbal Bedouin Tea — Strong mint or sage tea served hot in small glasses, a traditional refreshment offered by local guides and at village establishments to restore energy.
• Mansaf — Jordan's national dish of lamb cooked in yogurt sauce with pine nuts and served on flatbread, available at family-run restaurants in Wadi Musa.
• Falafel Wrap — Fried chickpea patties wrapped in pita bread with tahini and fresh vegetables, an affordable and convenient meal option near Petra's main entrance.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Sacred Significance — Treat the High Place with reverence as an ancient ritual site; avoid disturbing stones or leaving graffiti, and be mindful that this remains spiritually important to local Bedouin communities.
• Hire Local Guides — Engage Petra-certified guides from Wadi Musa who can explain Nabatean history, point out archaeological details, and share Bedouin cultural insights during your visit.
• Dress Appropriately for Climate — Wear sun protection, sturdy hiking boots, and layers as the elevated platform experiences intense sun exposure and temperature shifts; carry sufficient water throughout your climb.
• Learn Basic Arabic Greetings — Use simple phrases like 'As-salamu alaikum' (peace be upon you) and 'Shukran' (thank you) when interacting with local guides and residents, showing cultural respect.