Jordan: A nation and a beauty, untalked and uncharted by the unaware but dream-like and alluring for those who know, has had struggles to find a position in the generic list of ‘top travel destinations’ for long. But as the tourism industry burgeoned across the world overall, and an increase in interest in travelling became evident amongst people in general, certain countries caught world attention. One of those countries was Jordan.
Jordan is an Arab kingdom that is located in Western Asia. The country lies on the bank of Jordan river, which is also the root of its nomenclature. Officially called ‘The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan’, the country is magnificence personified. There are many monuments and other infrastructures that will evoke awe in a gazer. For the love of the unusual, a devout traveller must discover Jordan, so that she or he, at the end of life will not be overwhelmed with feelings of remorse of having not seen an otherworldly world.
Dead Sea
Even if we are congisant of its existence, having had read about it in geography classes in school, only a handful have paid it its overdue attention. To begin it, the Dead Sea is the lowest point on land and is also the saltiest of all water bodies. Extremely beautiful, it is also a natural spa that has proven therapeutic qualities.
Wadi Rum Desert
Also known as 'The Valley of the Moon', the Wadi Rum desert is all about sandstone and granite. Situated in southern Jordan, ‘Wadi Rum’ in Arabic means ‘Roman Valley’. The place has been the backdrop for the famous film ‘Lawrence of Arabia’; and this triggered tourism boom in Jordan!
Jerash Ruins
This beautiful place has been christened and re-christened for multiple times. Initially named 'Garshu' in the olden times and Jerash in the 21st century, this place receives lakhs of tourists every year. In fact, the 'Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts' is an extremely popular celebration that takes place annually. It showcases Arabic culture and draws millions from across the world.
Mujib Reserve of Wadi Mujib
Located east to the Dead Sea and deep in the mountain terrain, the place provides a stunning view of the Jordan valley. Mountains that are rocky and a desert that is endless meet the sight besides the intermittent cliffs and gorges. Created by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature in the year 1987, it was recently announced as a UNESCO biosphere reserve that supports bird life.
Ancient City of Petra
Known to everyone that Petra is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, this is the Rose City! The name draws inspiration from the unique colour of the stone that is found all around here. The ethereally beautiful city was made known to the public at large as late as 1812 by the Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt. But it is believed that the city must have been in existence since 312 BC.
If these words have thrown you into a state of excitement, do not waste your holidays by sitting at home idly, instead start planning for a trip to Jordan. All you need are a good itinerary, a flight ticket, and a packed bag, and you are good to go!
Author : Satarupa Hajra