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The Tree of Life: Bahrain's Desert Sentinel

A symbol of resilience, Bahrain's 400-year-old Tree of Life stands alone in the desert, a testament to the enduring power of nature.

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The Tree of Life, or Shajarat-al-Hayat, is a remarkable 400-year-old mesquite tree standing alone in the Bahraini desert. Its tenacity and mysterious survival, with no apparent water source, have made it a beloved landmark and a symbol of resilience.

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 afternoon to avoid the midday heat and capture the best lighting for photos.
  • Bring plenty of water, as the desert environment can be very dehydrating.
  • Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven, rocky terrain.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Jebel Dukhan, Bahrain's highest point, for panoramic desert views.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Tree of Life is located approximately 40 km south of Manama, near Jebel Dukhan. From Manama, take the highway south towards Jebel Dukhan. Follow signs for the Tree of Life. The drive takes about 30-40 minutes. There is a designated parking area near the tree. Note that driving is on the right-hand side of the road in Bahrain. Fuel costs for the round trip should be minimal, around $2-3.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Manama. A taxi to the Tree of Life will take approximately 32 minutes. Agree on a fare with the driver before starting your journey. Expect to pay between $30-$45 for a one-way trip. Some drivers may offer a round-trip fare with waiting time. Alternatively, ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are also available.

  • Public Transport

    While public buses are available, they may not be the most convenient option. There is no direct bus route to the Tree of Life. You can take a bus from Manama to Isa Town terminal and then take a taxi to the Tree of Life. The bus fare is minimal, but the taxi from Isa Town to the Tree of Life will cost approximately $25-$35. The total travel time will be around 54 minutes.

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Discover more about Tree of Life

In the heart of Bahrain's southern desert, approximately 40 kilometers from Manama, stands the Tree of Life. This ancient Prosopis cineraria tree, estimated to have been planted around 1582, rises 9.75 meters (32 feet) high from a sandy hill, a splash of green in a desolate landscape. For centuries, the Tree of Life has captivated locals and visitors alike. Its survival in the harsh desert environment, with scorching temperatures and minimal rainfall, is a mystery that has fueled numerous legends. Some believe its roots reach a hidden underground water source, while others claim it draws moisture from the very grains of sand. Some even suggest the tree has mystical powers, linking it to the Garden of Eden or the protection of ancient gods. Regardless of its secret, the Tree of Life stands as a testament to endurance and the resilience of life. It attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year, who come to marvel at its tenacity and take photos in its shade. The site features a sunken walkway with silhouettes of other famous trees, framing the Tree of Life from different perspectives. A visitor center offers shade and information about the tree and archaeological artifacts discovered nearby. The tree's yellow resin is used to make candles, aromatics, and gum, while its beans are processed into meal, jam, and wine.

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