Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) Guide
Escape the Crowds: Explore the Hidden Gem of Little Petra Guide
Little Petra, also known as Siq al-Barid ("the cold canyon"), is a smaller Nabataean site located a few kilometers north of Petra. Often overlooked by tourists, Little Petra offers a more intimate and tranquil experience, allowing you to appreciate the Nabataean architecture and artistry without the crowds. This narrow gorge, carved into the sandstone cliffs, features several tombs, temples, and water channels, providing a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of the Nabataeans. Little Petra served as an important trading outpost and caravanserai for Petra. It is believed that merchants and traders would stop here to rest and prepare before entering the main city. The site dates back to the 1st century AD and showcases the same impressive rock-cut architecture as Petra, albeit on a smaller scale. One of the highlights of Little Petra is the Painted Triclinium, a dining hall adorned with well-preserved Nabataean frescoes. Visitors can explore Little Petra by walking through the narrow siq, admiring the rock-cut facades, and discovering the hidden chambers. The site is relatively small and can be easily explored in a few hours. Don't miss the Painted Triclinium, which offers a rare glimpse into Nabataean art. You can also hike to a viewpoint overlooking the surrounding landscape. While Little Petra doesn't have specific culinary traditions, you can find local restaurants in the nearby village of Wadi Musa offering traditional Jordanian dishes.
Transportation
Little Petra is located approximately 9 kilometers north of Wadi Musa. Taxis are readily available from Wadi Musa to Little Petra. Alternatively, some hotels offer shuttle services. There is also a local bus that runs between Wadi Musa and Little Petra, but the schedule can be infrequent.