World by City

Nature

Jebel al-Madhbah

Open in Maps
Jebel al-Madhbah

Overview

Jebel al-Madhbah is a mountain rising within the Petra ruins. Its summit contains a Nabataean ritual site centered on an altar. Travelers make the climb to examine ancient ceremonial structures up close and observe the surrounding landscape from an elevated position.

Getting There

The mountain is accessed from the central valley of Petra, reached on foot from the Wadi Musa town center and visitor area. Ascending the carved rock steps to the top takes roughly 45 to 75 minutes from the valley floor.

Time to Spend

Plan to spend 2 to 3 hours for the visit, which covers the ascent, time to inspect the summit altar and monuments, and the descent.

When to Visit

Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid high temperatures and direct sun, as the route offers little shade. The summit path is generally less crowded than the main valley trails, though narrow stair sections can slow movement when groups pass.

Nearby Attractions

You can combine this visit with several nearby landmarks located in the central archaeological area:

  • Petra Theatre (0.3km)
  • Tomb of the Roman Soldier (0.3km)
  • Al Khazneh (0.4km)
  • Urn Tomb (Petra) (0.6km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

GetYourGuide GetYourGuide 클룩 Klook Tiqets Tiqets KKday KKday WeGoTrip WeGoTrip

This place may not appear in the results — some sites are free to enter or sell tickets only at the gate.

Stays near Jebel al-Madhbah

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

Map and place data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Jebel al-Madhbah Nearby stays

Check prices and availability on the booking sites.

Pick your dates — we'll search Petra hotels for you

Choose dates and guests, and the buttons below will open search results with your criteria. Prices differ between sites, so compare before you book.

View on Compare sites 부킹닷컴 View on Booking.com 호텔스닷컴 View on Hotels.com

Hotel membership

Staying at Accor hotels often? ALL Accor+ Explorer

A paid annual membership. It includes two free nights a year across Asia-Pacific, 30% off dining and 15% off drinks, and 15% off stays at more than 4,500 hotels worldwide.

Explore the membership

Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

Petra 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

A 3-day route through Petra grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

3 nights, 4 days

Petra 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)

A 4-day route through Petra grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

Good to visit alongside

Tomb of the Roman Soldier

Heritage & monuments

Tomb of the Roman Soldier

One of the best-preserved tombs in Petra, notable for its facade with carved figures set between the columns. The surrounding courtyard and chambers can also be explored.

0.3 km away
Petra Theatre

Culture & venues

Petra Theatre

This amphitheater was carved into the rock in the 1st century during the Nabataean era and sits close to the center of Petra. Climbing its three tiers of stepped seating gives a sense of the theater's grand scale.

0.3 km away
Al Khazneh

Heritage & monuments

Al Khazneh

The most spectacular sight in Petra, its two-story facade is carved directly into the rock face and lined with Corinthian columns. It's believed to be the tomb of a Nabataean king, and the legend behind its name, "the Treasury," is fascinating in its own right.

0.4 km away
Urn Tomb (Petra)

Heritage & monuments

Urn Tomb (Petra)

A grand rock-cut tomb in the section of Petra known as the "Royal Wall," named for the urn-shaped ornament atop its facade. Its builder remains unknown, but its striking cliffside facade continues to draw attention.

0.6 km away
Palace Tomb (Petra)

Heritage & monuments

Palace Tomb (Petra)

One of the Royal Tombs of Petra, its massive rock-cut facade spans 49 meters wide and 46 meters high. As one of the largest Nabataean structures in Petra, it draws a steady stream of visitors.

0.8 km away
Siq

Nature

Siq

A narrow, shadowy gorge leading into Petra — follow its winding path for about 1.2 km and Al-Khazneh suddenly appears before you. The canyon scenery along the way is a highlight in itself.

0.9 km away