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The Tree of Life: A Desert Survivor

Witness the miracle of Bahrain's Tree of Life, a 400-year-old enigma standing alone in the desert, drawing visitors from around the globe.

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The Tree of Life (Shajarat-al-Hayat) is a solitary tree standing tall in the Bahraini desert, approximately 40 kilometers south of Manama. This mysterious mesquite tree, estimated to be over 400 years old, thrives despite the harsh conditions and lack of an obvious water source, drawing tens of thousands of visitors annually.

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

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the intense desert heat.
  • Bring plenty of water and wear appropriate clothing, including sun protection.
  • Take your camera to capture the stark beauty of the tree against the desert landscape.
  • Explore the visitor center for information and shade.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The most convenient way to reach the Tree of Life is by car. From Manama, take the Musakar Highway south. The Tree of Life is signposted from the highway. Exit the highway and follow the dirt road towards the tree. A 4WD is not required, but exercise caution to avoid driving into soft sand. There is a designated parking area near the tree. There are no parking costs.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Jebel Dukhan, the closest town to the Tree of Life, the most practical way to reach the site is by taxi or ride-sharing service. 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.

  • 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 0.3 BHD. The taxi fare from Isa Town to the Tree of Life will be approximately 8-10 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 Sakhir desert in Bahrain stands the Tree of Life, a remarkable symbol of resilience and endurance. Known locally as Shajarat-al-Hayat, this solitary Prosopis cineraria tree has stood for over 400 years, a vibrant green beacon in a barren landscape. Planted around 1583, the tree is approximately 9.75 meters (32 feet) tall and attracts approximately 65,000 visitors every year. What makes the Tree of Life so special is its mysterious survival. With no apparent source of fresh water and little rainfall, scientists and visitors alike have long been puzzled by how it continues to thrive. Some believe its roots, which may extend up to 50 meters deep, reach an underground water source. Others suggest it extracts moisture from sand grains or that it is sustained by humidity from the sea breeze. Local legends even claim the tree has mystical powers, suggesting it was planted in the Garden of Eden or is protected by the ancient Sumerian god Enki. Regardless of the explanation, the Tree of Life has become a cherished part of Bahrain's natural heritage and a testament to the power of nature. The tree is a source of yellow resin used to make candles, aromatics, and gum, and its beans are processed into meal, jam, and wine. In 2010, archaeologists unearthed 500-year-old pottery and other artifacts near the tree, adding to its mystique. Today, visitors can also find a visitor center providing shade and information. The site sometimes hosts cultural events.

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