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Jeita Grotto: A Lebanese Subterranean Wonder

Discover Lebanon's natural wonder: Explore the breathtaking Jeita Grotto, a stunning cave system with magnificent stalactites, stalagmites, and an underground river.

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Jeita Grotto, located in the Nahr al-Kalb valley, is a stunning network of limestone caves north of Beirut. This natural marvel features both an upper grotto with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and a lower grotto with an underground river accessible by boat.

A brief summary to Jeita Grotto

  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces within the caves.
  • Bring a light jacket or sweater, as the temperature inside the grotto is cooler than outside.
  • Check the official website for updated opening hours and potential seasonal closures of the Lower Grotto.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Lady of Lebanon statue in Harissa or the historic city of Byblos for a comprehensive day trip.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance to save time, especially during peak season.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Beirut, the most straightforward way to reach Jeita Grotto is by taxi. A taxi ride from Beirut to Jeita Grotto typically takes around 18 minutes and costs approximately $35-45. Taxis can be found throughout Beirut, or you can arrange for a ride through services like Chouf Taxi.

  • Driving

    If driving from Beirut, follow the signs towards Jeita; the route is well-marked. The drive is approximately 21 kilometers and takes about 18 minutes. Parking is available at Jeita Grotto. Expect to pay a small fee for parking.

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Discover more about Jeita Grotto

The Jeita Grotto, situated 18 kilometers north of Beirut in the Valley of the Dog River (Nahr al-Kalb), is a captivating testament to Lebanon's natural beauty and geological history. This extensive cave system, formed over millions of years by the dissolution of limestone, stretches approximately 9 kilometers and consists of two distinct levels: the Upper Grotto and the Lower Grotto. The Upper Grotto, discovered in 1836 by Reverend William Thomson, is accessible by foot and showcases a breathtaking collection of stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and draperies. Illuminated pathways wind through this labyrinthine space, revealing the intricate details of these formations, sculpted over millennia by mineral-rich water. One of the most remarkable features is the colossal stalactite, recognized as one of the largest in the world, measuring an impressive 8.2 meters in length. The Lower Grotto, explored more extensively in the 1870s, features an underground river and lake, offering a serene boat ride through the illuminated cavern. This subterranean river is a vital source of fresh water for over a million Lebanese people. The boat tour provides a unique perspective on the grotto's geological artistry, with reflections shimmering across the water. Jeita Grotto's significance extends beyond its visual splendor. It stands as a symbol of Lebanese pride and has been a finalist in the New 7 Wonders of Nature competition. The grotto has also been the subject of numerous geological and hydrological studies, contributing to our understanding of the region's environmental history. Visitors can easily spend 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the grotto, including a cable car ride that offers panoramic views of the Nahr al-Kalb valley. While photography is restricted inside the caves to protect the delicate formations, the surrounding gardens and cable car rides offer ample opportunities to capture the beauty of the area.

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