From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tree of Life.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
The Tree of Life: Bahrain's Desert Sentinel
Witness the miracle of Bahrain's Tree of Life, a centuries-old symbol of resilience in the heart of the Arabian Desert.
The Tree of Life (Shajarat-al-Hayat) is a remarkable, approximately 400-year-old tree standing alone in Bahrain's Arabian Desert. A symbol of resilience, it draws tens of thousands of visitors annually who marvel at its ability to thrive in such an arid environment.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Tree of Life
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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
Discover more about Tree of Life
The Tree of Life, known locally as Shajarat-al-Hayat, is a mesmerizing landmark in Bahrain, a testament to life's tenacity. This solitary Prosopis cineraria tree, also known as Ghaf in Arabic, has stood for around 400 years on a hill in the Sakhir desert, enduring scorching temperatures and minimal rainfall. Its survival is a mystery, with theories ranging from deep roots reaching underground water sources to an ability to extract moisture from sand grains.
Standing approximately 9.75 meters (32 feet) high, the tree is a vibrant green beacon in a barren landscape. It has become a symbol of Bahrain's heritage and the resilience of its people. Visited by around 65,000 people each year, the Tree of Life offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Local legends add to the tree's mystique, with some claiming it as a survivor from the Garden of Eden or protected by the ancient Sumerian god Enki. Archaeological discoveries of 500-year-old pottery near the site further deepen its historical significance. Today, the site includes a visitor center and a sunken walkway with silhouettes of other famous trees, enhancing the visitor experience.
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Getting There
Taxi/Ride-Share
From Jebel Dukhan, taking a taxi or ride-sharing service is the most practical way to reach the Tree of Life. The ride is approximately 6 kilometers and takes about 15 minutes. A taxi from Jebel Dukhan typically costs between 5 BHD to 8 BHD. Ensure the driver knows the location.
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. The drive from Manama takes approximately 35-40 minutes. There is no entrance fee or parking costs. A 4WD is not required, but exercise caution on the dirt road.
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. The bus fare to Isa Town is approximately 0.5 BHD. From Isa Town, take a taxi to the Tree of Life, which will cost approximately 8-12 BHD.
A brief summary to Tree of Life
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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