REJAL ALMAÁ, SAUDI ARABIA (The Men of Flowers) - Underrated Travel Destinations

DON BANARIA
Dec 18, 2022
4 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

UNESCO Heritage Site. — Visitors leisurely stroll through the scenic Heritage Village Public Kiosk, surrounded by stunning mountain views at sunset.

Underrated Travel Destinations - In the Aseer Province, Rejal Almaa is steeped in history and culture, establishing it as a key heritage centre in Saudi Arabia. The name translates to "The Men of Flower" in English. The primary attraction for many visitors is the Rejal Almaá Palaces, which have stood for 900 years and are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Rejal Alma'a is renowned for its breathtaking mountain scenery and ancient palaces dating back 900 years. This heritage site, recognised by UNESCO, showcases distinctive structural and architectural designs from the Gothic and Renaissance periods. While differing from European designs of the same era, it reflects Middle Eastern influences in applied arts and engineering.

Please click the play tab to watch the YouTube video about the place.

https://youtu.be/JSDNNwEuzbs

The area's phenomenal temperatures and natural weather conditions are intriguing characteristics that draw visitors alongside its heritage monuments and ancient palaces. During winter, while people from nearby towns and places, especially those atop Jabal Soudah, are chilling in the cold, Rejal Alma'a provides a comforting warmth—just the right temperature—neither so cold nor so hot, of course.

https://youtu.be/902vMSgdu7g

The oddity of its temperature during

Many people visit this place in winter to escape the cold. I observed this during my visit to the town. Although the sky was clear and cold from the mountain, I noticed the temperature rising as we descended. This was contrary to my expectations. Being within the Al Soudah mountain range, I assumed the village would also be cold.

Following a thrilling 25-minute descent on

The nerve-wracking tension at the new town centre is eased by the breathtaking panoramic views that captivate everyone, and lessened by the winding road from the summit of Jabal Soudah, known as The Devil Road.

The serene and tranquil community offers breathtaking views that captivate visitors seeking adventure, sightseeing, and holiday experiences. The climate is ideal for strolling and taking in the environment.

Click the play tab to watch the video about the New Town Centre of Rejal Almaá.

https://youtu.be/apAXV1bxaEQ

Visiting here offers the opportunity to experience the thrill, excitement, and heart-pounding sensation of navigating the sharp, blind curves and steep sections of the Devil Road from the mountain summit to the base of the Al Soudah mountain range. Therefore, proficient driving skills on this distinctive road terrain are crucial, as safety is paramount.

Attractions:

(Note: The listed places of attraction are the only ones the author has personally visited. Others were not included here because the author still has to visit them)

The Old Palaces of the 900-year-old Heritage Village
Rejal Almaá Museum
Rejal Almaá View Point
Rejal Almaá Park
Remarkable landscapes of the mountains
2 Km long road tunnel
The 25 Km zig-zag road of the Devil Road

Click the arrow tab below to see more images during twilight to early evening time:

Things To Observe:

To reach this place, you must navigate a winding road filled with sharp turns and steep sections; ensure you follow these guidelines for a safe and pleasant journey:

Check the engine's condition; it should be excellent and mountain-road-worthy, especially the brakes.
Make sure there is enough fuel on your way and back.
Drive at a speed suited to mountain driving.
Be watchful because there are troops of monkeys crossing the road.
Observing proper road manners and courtesy is a must.
During rainy days, if it is not necessary to come, do not come, especially if you are new to the terrain, or let someone familiar with the road drive for as long as you know him to be an excellent defensive driver.

Things To Bring

It would help if you came with your winter outfits to keep you warm. Though the temperature is not that cold here at the Rejal Alma'a, on your way up, while cruising the top of Jabal Soudah, it is freezing in winter and warm on ordinary or summer days.
Always bring water to drink and something to eat so that you will not starve or be thirsty if anything unexpected happens. Though there are shops in the town centre where you can buy some food and light snacks, the food you carry is your stock along the way.
Camera, first and foremost, to those coming here for the first time, to record the memory of the visit.
As with any other place, it is much better to come with a guide—a local or resident of the area—to ensure you reach the places you want to visit without getting lost. The guide can also communicate with the people there.

Click the arrow tab to see other images below: