The city side as viewed from the Eastern View Point at night
City In The Sky—Abha City, Saudi Arabia, is over 2000 meters above sea level. It is indeed a city in the sky. At night, the shimmering lights on the mountain peaks, valleys, and plains transform the town into a celestial paradise. From a distance, it appears adorned with twinkling stars, reminiscent of the view from outer space.
Abha is known as the Summer Capital of Saudi Arabia, attracting tourists who seek to enjoy the cooler climate during the summer months. While visitors might decrease in winter compared to summer, many tourists and individuals still visit to explore the intriguing stories they've heard.
The city serves as a gateway to the various tourist destinations and natural attractions in Aseer province, which may account for its appeal during high and low temperatures.
Visiting the city to appreciate stunning landscapes and attractions doesn't require venturing far from the urban area. The town has numerous places to enjoy your time, ensuring a memorable and distinctive experience.
Abha's unique plateau landscape enchants visitors, leaving them in awe of its views, whether during the day or at night. In addition to its stunning scenery, the city boasts numerous historical heritage sites that offer visitors a deeper understanding of its past.
Therefore, it would be ideal not to venture outside the city to embark on a distinctive journey to the queen city of the mountain tops. Below are some recommended places to visit in the town (Note: the author has only visited the first five spots; the others are suggested but not yet explored):
Suggested Parks And Spots To Visit (Visited by the Author)
1. Shamsan Ottoman Castle
2. Abu Kheyal Parks (1 & 2)
3. Eastern View Point
4. The Art Street
5. The Tuesday Market
Other spots (Author still has yet to visit)
6. Abha Dam
7. The Green Mountain
8. Aseer National Park
9. The Dabbab Walkway
Shamsan Ottoman Castle
Among all the historical landmarks in Abha, Shamsan Ottoman Castle holds the greatest significance. It provides a glimpse into the heritage and culture of the local people dating back to the Ottoman Empire. Perched atop a mountain overlooking the city of Abha, the castle undoubtedly served as a fortress and a stronghold against invading enemies.
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Navigating the road that ascends to the castle adds an extra thrill, as it challenges the driving abilities of those unfamiliar with maneuvering on a narrow, uphill path flanked by residential homes.
Driving to the base of the hill and walking to the castle yard is a great idea. The best time to visit is from sundown to evening when you can appreciate the dazzling views of the city lights flickering in various colors.
Abu Kheyal Park (1 & 2)
Suppose you are looking for a nature park within the city to spend your day under the shades of the trees, feeling the light touches of the soft breezes, watching the city in its magnificent landscape during the daytime, and behold as it flickers with a dazzling multi-colors of lights after sundown. In that case, Abu Kheyal is another good suggestion.
Situated in the city area, it is easily accessible via the Abha ring road, positioned at the upper end of the city center. The recommended time to visit is from late afternoon until after sunset.
Eastern View Point
Eastern View Point offers a hilltop location that is perfect for a relaxing afternoon. From this vantage point, you can watch the city's winding roads and cars navigate the terrain, creating the impression of a live movie. As night falls, the twinkling city lights provide a soothing effect, gradually easing away your stress.
The best time to come here is before sundown. You wait until the sunset starts, and the dark slowly covers the surroundings.
The Art Street
Art Street is not a site to settle, sit down, and bond with friends or family. It is a road portion with fully-grown trees standing in the middle and on both sides. During the fall season, these trees become bald, and out of the leaves, the leaves are replaced with indigo flowers.
To see the place in its fall-season color, indigo, you need to find an elevated surface nearby.
The Tuesday Market Place
The place to buy souvenir items that are locally produced and will bear or imply the name of the Aseer region and the City of Abha is where you should come. However, as the title says, the Market day is Tuesday.
Besides souvenir items, fresh farm produce, such as fruits, veggies, and honey, is available during the market day. The Tuesday Market is adjacent to Art Street.
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Tour Guide: MR. OSAMA ALQAHTANI
Mobile: +966 50 957 7997
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