Tree of Life, Jid Ali Travel Guide

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Bahrain's enigmatic Tree of Life: A 400-year-old desert survivor, shrouded in mystery and a symbol of resilience.

The Tree of Life (Shajarat-al-Hayat) is a solitary mesquite tree standing in the Bahraini desert, approximately 40 km south of Manama. Thriving for over 400 years despite the harsh climate and lack of apparent water sources, it has become a symbol of resilience and a popular tourist attraction, drawing around 65,000 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

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 the cooler months (October to April) for a more comfortable experience, as summer temperatures in Bahrain can be extreme.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on sand and uneven terrain.
Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities near the Tree of Life.
Consider visiting Jebel Dukhan, Bahrain's highest point, located approximately 2 kilometers from the Tree of Life.

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Getting There

Driving

The Tree of Life is approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) south of Manama. From Manama, take the Zallaq Highway heading east, which becomes the Al-Muaskar Highway. Follow the signs for the Tree of Life, turning right at the intersection. Then turn right again along the power lines. Be careful not to drive in the soft sand. A taxi from Manama will cost approximately 30-45 BHD.
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, take a taxi to the Tree of Life. A bus and taxi combination will cost approximately 25-35 BHD. A single bus fare is minimal.

Discover more about Tree of Life

In the heart of Bahrain's arid desert, a remarkable sight captivates visitors from around the globe: the Tree of Life. Known locally as Shajarat-al-Hayat, this lone mesquite tree (Prosopis cineraria) has stood for over 400 years, a vibrant splash of green in a seemingly inhospitable environment. Standing 9.75 meters (32 feet) high, the tree's survival is a mystery, as it stands far from any known water source.Scientists have proposed various theories to explain the tree's endurance, including an extensive root system reaching deep underground, possibly up to 50 meters, to tap into underground water sources. Others suggest the tree extracts moisture from sand grains or benefits from humidity carried by the breeze from the sea, over 13 kilometers away.The Tree of Life has become a symbol of resilience, strength, and the ability to thrive in adversity, deeply ingrained in Bahrain's cultural heritage. Some locals believe the tree stands on the site of the Garden of Eden or is protected by Enki, an ancient Sumerian god of water. In 2010, archaeologists unearthed 500-year-old pottery and artifacts near the tree, adding to its mystique. Today, the Tree of Life is a must-see destination, drawing those who seek to witness its enduring beauty and contemplate the secrets of its survival.