Have you heard about Ashar Valley? If not, you’re about to experience something special. This place is quite impressive.

Location

The Ashar Valley is situated in the northwest part of Saudi Arabia in AlUla. It is located inside the Madina Region, approximately 1,100 km away from the capital city, Riyadh. You may think you have traveled to another planet as the valley is transformed into old sandstone mountains.

It is not easy to visit there, but that is also a part of the adventure. The nearest airport is Prince Abdul Majeed bin Abdulaziz Domestic Airport in AlUla. It is a little distance of driving from there. But believe me, it is a worthwhile trip.

Now, let’s discuss how to visit Ashar Valley. Here’s the process that I used:

How To Go

1. Take a flight to Jeddah or Riyadh. In Saudi Arabia, these are the main international airports.
2. Book a domestic flight to AlUla. Saudi Airlines runs regular flights to that route.
3. When you reach AlUla, hire a car. To go to Ashar Valley, you will need one.
4. After driving about 30 minutes or more, head to the northeast from AlUla. Although the road is fine, watch out for warning signs.
5. You’re there as soon as you enter the tourist center!

Tips: Make travel arrangements via a tour operator. You’ll be free to spend time in the sights while they take care of your logistics.

Where to Stay

Ashar Valley has got some cool places to crash. Here are a few options:

1. Habitas AlUla: This eco-friendly resort blends into the landscape. The rooms are like luxury tents with amazing views.

2. Shaden Resort: Located near AlUla Old Town, this place offers a mix of modern comforts and traditional design.

3. Sahary AlUla Resort: If you’re after a more budget-friendly option, this place fits the bill without skimping on comfort.

4. Camping: For the adventurous types, there are designated camping areas. Nothing beats sleeping under the stars in the desert.

5. Caravan by Habitas: These are mobile hotel rooms that can be moved to different locations in the valley. How cool is that?

I stayed at Habitas AlUla, and it was an experience in itself. Waking up to the view of the desert mountains from my private terrace was something else.

Where to Visit

Ashar Valley is not the only spot. It is a whole area with lots of things. Here is my must-visit list:

1. Maraya: This is an undeveloped area. There is a huge mirrored cube in the middle of the desert. It has been recognized as the world’s largest mirrored building by Guinness World Records. It produces a dazzling sensation by reflecting the surrounding scenery.

2. Elephant Rock: Think about the image of a massive elephant made of rock. That’s what you will notice there. It is an awesome spot for pictures, especially at sunset.

3. Hegra: This is Saudi Arabia’s first World Heritage Site designated by UNESCO. It is an ancient city over a hundred perfectly preserved tombs cut into rock faces. Imagine Petra with fewer visitors.

4. AlUla Old Town: Walk around this deserted city of mud bricks. It has a really ghost town feeling that is interesting and terrifying.

5. Dadan: The capital of this ancient kingdom provides evidence of the region’s rich past. The Lion Tombs are an amazing place.

6. AlUla Oasis: A beautiful oasis in a barren desert, Indeed. For centuries, people have been nurturing this oasis.

My Experience

Let me describe the thing , Ashar Valley is really stunning. I have visited many places, but this one is special. The moment I got out of the car, I felt that I was in another world.

The first thing that immediately struck me, was the silence. It is the type of silence that echoes in your ears. Then the enormous size of the ace all overwhelmed me as my eyes habituated to the scenerio. As far I could see, massive stone formations raised out, their surfaces shaped into strange patterns by time and wind.

I started my journey by visiting Maraya. I was astonished by what I was watching with my eyes. This gigantic mirrored cube reflected the sky and the surrounding mountains, offering the impression that it was floating above the desert floor. It resembles a scene from a science fiction film.Then it is the turn of Elephant Rock. I planned my visit to coincide with sunset, believe me, it was a wise decision. The rock shone a deep orange as the sun went below the horizon. With its “trunk” extending toward the sky, the elephant’s layout was as distinct as day.

The highlight was Hegra. I joined in a guided tour, which is highly recommended. Our guide brought the old city to life With stories of the Nabataeans who constructed it, Looking around these beautifully constructed landmarks, I felt a real connection to the past.

One evening, I went on a stargazing trip In Ashar Valley. The night sky is amazing when you’re away from city lights. I noticed more stars than my knowledge. My journey took on a completely new dimension when the guide pointed out planets and constellations.

I was astonished by the hospitality of the inhabitants throughout my entire visit. I met people who were all excited to share their histories and cultures. My respect for Saudi Arabia and its people grew after I departed.

Safety & Precautions

Now, let’s talk about safety. Saudi Arabia’s come a long way in opening up to tourism, but it’s still smart to be prepared. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Respect local traditions: Saudi Arabia is a traditional nation. Respect local customs by dressing modestly.
2. Stay Hydrated: The heat in the desert is extreme. Wear sunscreen and drink lots of water.
3. Careful while roaming: Keep an eye on your step and wear supportive footwear.
4. Verify travel advisories: Find out the most recent information from your nation’s foreign office before you depart.
5. Purchase travel insurance: It is better to be safe than sorry, right?
6. Hire a guide: You must have a guide in some places, such as Hegra. A guide may improve your experience and keep your journey safe even when it is not required.
7. Respect for the environment: Don’t try to litter or injure any historically significant areas. Take just memories, leave only footprints.
8. Be prepared for limited cell service: Some areas have spotty coverage. Download offline maps before you go.

Surroundings

Ashar Valley isn’t just a the valley itself. The surrounding area is packed with cool stuff to see and do. Here’s what’s nearby:

1. Al Ula Desert: This enormous area of sand dunes offers ideal conditions for adventure sports like sand bashing and camel trekking.
2. Wadi Al-Qura: Because of its historical value and lovely palm trees, this old oasis village is well worth a visit.
3. Harrat Uwayrid: There are amazing views from the peak. Hiking in this volcanic landscape is among the greatest in this region.
4. Al-Ragasat: It is often recognized as the Dancing Rocks, this fascinating phenomenon resembles dancing figures that have been preserved in time.
5. Ikmah: The rock inscriptions at this outdoor library provide information about the prehistoric people who formerly lived in the region.
6. Winter Park: If you’re traveling during the cooler months, visit this seasonal attraction, which offers zip lines, climbing walls, and other activities.
7. AlUla Fresh Farm: This operational farm provides tours where you may taste regional vegetables and discover traditional agricultural techniques.

A varied topography surrounds Ashar Valley. You can find yourself in broad desert plains or amid palm trees in an instant, then in jagged mountains the next is a photographer’s paradise.

I took a 4×4 SUV trip and spent the day exploring the area. We wandered across arid pathways scaled sand hills, and took a break at stunning views. Aside from pointing us to prehistoric rock art, the guide shared legends about the former nomadic tribes that inhabited these areas.

A morning hot air balloon trip was among my best experiences. The morning sun cast golden hues on the rocks as we glided across the terrain.
But things are changing in Saudi Arabia. Developing AlUla as a tourism destination is a major investment. More tourists will result from it, even though it also implies more facilities and infrastructure. What would I recommend? Head over there quickly, before the rest of them find it.

The experience of Ashar Valley extends its status as a mere location. You pause and take in the beauty of the surroundings when you visit this spot. You come away with lifelong memories and experiences that alter your views.

Ready for an adventure? Then pack your luggage, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure. Ashar Valley is calling, and trust me, you don’t want to miss this call. If you want to get updated with Saudi Arabian culture and travel vlogs subscribe to my newsletter (which is completely free) and stay tuned with Desert Chronicles.