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The Tree of Life: Bahrain's Mystical Desert Survivor

Bahrain's ancient Tree of Life: A symbol of resilience, mystery, and natural beauty in the heart of the Arabian Desert.

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The Tree of Life (Shajarat-al-Hayat) is a solitary Prosopis cineraria tree thriving in Bahrain's desert for over 400 years. Its mysterious survival, with no apparent water source, has made it a symbol of resilience and a major tourist attraction.

A brief summary to Tree of Life

  • Dirt Road to Tree of Life, Jebel Dukhan, BH

Local tips

  • Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the desert heat, as temperatures can be extreme during the day.
  • Stay on marked paths to avoid getting your vehicle stuck in the soft desert sand.
  • Bring water and sun protection, as there is little shade available.
  • The Tree is most beautiful after dusk, when it is lit up.
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Getting There

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Jebel Dukhan, the closest town to the Tree of Life, a taxi or ride-sharing service is the most practical way to reach the site. The journey is approximately 6 kilometers and takes about 15 minutes. A taxi from Jebel Dukhan to the Tree of Life typically costs between 5 BHD to 8 BHD. Ensure the driver knows the location, as it is a popular tourist destination. There is a designated parking area near the tree.

  • Driving

    If driving from Manama, follow the Musakar Highway south. The Tree of Life is signposted from the highway. Exit the highway and follow the dirt road towards the tree. Exercise caution to avoid driving into soft sand. The drive from Manama takes approximately 35-40 minutes. There is no entrance fee or parking costs.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to the Tree of Life, you can take a bus to Isa Town terminal from Manama. From Isa Town, you will need to take a taxi to the Tree of Life. The bus fare to Isa Town is approximately 0.5 BHD. The taxi fare from Isa Town to the Tree of Life will be approximately 8-12 BHD. This is a less convenient option, but it is possible for budget travelers.

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Discover more about Tree of Life

In the heart of the Bahraini desert, approximately 40 kilometers from Manama and 6 kilometers from Jebel Dukhan, stands the Tree of Life. This remarkable Prosopis cineraria tree, also known locally as Shajarat-al-Hayat, has defied the harsh desert climate for over 400 years. Planted around 1583, this tree is estimated to be 9.75 meters tall. What makes the Tree of Life so captivating is its mysterious ability to thrive in such an arid environment. With no visible source of water nearby, the tree's survival has sparked numerous theories and legends. Some believe its roots, which may extend 50 meters deep, tap into an underground water source. Others suggest it extracts moisture from sand grains or that it is blessed by the Sumerian god Enki. Local legend even suggests that Bahrain was the biblical location of the Garden of Eden, and the Tree of Life is all that remains of it today. Regardless of the explanation, the Tree of Life has become a symbol of endurance, resilience, and the connection between nature and humanity. It attracts approximately 65,000 visitors annually, who come to marvel at its tenacity and beauty. The site features a visitor center with information about the tree and artifacts discovered nearby. The tree is best appreciated after dusk, when it is hauntingly lit up to accentuate the mystique that draws people to it.

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