Tree of Life, Central Region Travel Guide

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Witness the enduring mystery of Bahrain's Tree of Life, a 400-year-old symbol of resilience thriving in the heart of the desert.

The Tree of Life, or Shajarat-al-Hayat, is a solitary mesquite tree thriving in Bahrain's desert for over 400 years. Its mysterious survival without a visible water source has made it a symbol of resilience and a popular tourist attraction.

A brief summary to Tree of Life

Dirt Road to Tree of Life, Jebel Dukhan, BH

Monday 6 am-10 pm
Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
Thursday 6 am-10 pm
Friday 6 am-10 pm
Saturday 6 am-10 pm
Sunday 6 am-10 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tree of Life.

Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting and photo opportunities.
Bring water and sun protection, as the desert environment can be harsh.
Respect the tree and its surroundings by staying on designated paths and avoiding littering.
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Jebel Dukhan for panoramic desert views.

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Explore Tree of Life on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Tree of Life, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

The Tree of Life is located approximately 40 kilometers southwest of Manama, near Jebel Dukhan. From Manama, take the Zallaq Highway south, which becomes the Al-Muaskar Highway. Follow signs for the Tree of Life, turning right at the designated intersection. Continue on the dirt path at Well 371, which leads directly to the tree. Parking is available near the site.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber or Careem are readily available in Manama. A taxi ride from Manama to the Tree of Life typically takes 35-40 minutes. Expect to pay between 11.3 BHD and 17 BHD for a one-way trip. Note that fares may be higher during peak hours or at night.
Public Transport

While there is no direct public transportation to the Tree of Life, you can take a bus from Manama to Isa Town terminal. From there, you will need to take a taxi to complete the journey to the Tree of Life. A bus ticket to Isa Town costs approximately 0.5 BHD. A taxi from Isa Town to the Tree of Life will cost approximately 8-12 BHD.

Discover more about Tree of Life

In the heart of the Bahraini desert, approximately 40 kilometers from Manama, stands the Tree of Life (Shajarat-al-Hayat), a remarkable and enigmatic natural wonder. This lone Prosopis cineraria tree, estimated to be over 400 years old, has become a symbol of Bahrain's resilience and a testament to life's ability to thrive in the harshest conditions.Standing at 9.75 meters (32 feet) tall, the Tree of Life presents a striking contrast to the arid landscape surrounding it. Its abundant green leaves and sprawling branches offer a welcome respite from the sun, drawing approximately 65,000 visitors each year. The tree's survival is a mystery, as there is no apparent source of fresh water nearby. This has led to numerous theories, ranging from deep root systems reaching underground aquifers to the tree's ability to extract moisture from sand grains. Some even believe the tree is blessed by Enki, the ancient Sumerian god of water, or that it is a remnant of the biblical Garden of Eden.Archaeological discoveries near the tree, including 500-year-old pottery and artifacts, suggest the area may have once been a military outpost. Today, the Tree of Life is protected and cherished as a national icon. Visitors can explore the site, take photos, and contemplate the tree's enduring legacy. A circular perimeter wall surrounds the tree, with a shaded alcove providing information about its history and significance. The site is particularly enchanting after dusk when the tree is illuminated, accentuating its mystique. Nearby attractions include Jebel Dukhan, Bahrain's highest point, and the Bahrain International Circuit.