Petra by Night: Days, Times, Tickets and Tips

Petra by Night: candles, music and the Treasury after dark

Three evenings a week, the Siq of Petra is lined with candles and the Treasury glows in the dark. Petra by Night is a quiet walk along the ancient gorge, followed by Bedouin music and a story in front of the Treasury. It is not a full visit to Petra, but an atmosphere many travellers remember long after their trip.

What happens at Petra by Night

The walk begins at the visitor centre in Wadi Musa after dark. Candles in paper lanterns line the path through the Bab al-Siq and the narrow Siq, about two kilometres in all, and visitors are asked to walk quietly.

At the end, the square in front of the Treasury (Al-Khazneh) is filled with candles. Guests sit on mats, are offered sweet tea and listen to Bedouin music on the rababa and the flute, with a short story about Petra, before the Treasury is lit in changing colours.

Days, times and duration

Petra by Night usually takes place on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings. It starts at about 8:30 pm and ends at around 10:30 pm, and the programme in the Treasury square lasts about an hour. Schedules can change with the seasons, holidays or bad weather, so confirm at the visitor centre or with your hotel on the day.

Tickets

Petra by Night needs its own ticket: it is not included in the regular Petra ticket or in the Jordan Pass. Tickets are sold at the Petra Visitor Centre, and many hotels in Wadi Musa can book them for you.

Is it worth it?

It helps to know what to expect. The walk through the candlelit Siq is magical and very different from a daytime visit. The square can be busy, and photos of the Treasury work best with a phone's night mode or a tripod.

If you love atmosphere, music and night skies, it is one of the most memorable evenings in Jordan. If you only want to see the monuments, your daytime visit will show you far more.

Frequently asked questions

What is Petra by Night?

An evening programme in which the Siq and the square in front of the Treasury are lit by candles, with Bedouin music, tea and a short story about Petra.

Which days does Petra by Night run?

Usually on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings, starting at about 8:30 pm. Confirm on the day, as the schedule can change.

Is Petra by Night included in the Jordan Pass?

No. It needs a separate ticket, sold at the Petra Visitor Centre.

How long does Petra by Night last?

About two hours in total, including the walk of about two kilometres each way and about an hour in the Treasury square.

Is Petra by Night worth it?

For most people who enjoy atmosphere and music, yes: the candlelit Siq is unforgettable. It does not replace a daytime visit, which shows far more of Petra.