There are a number of historical and beautiful villages present in Saudi Arabia. Among them, Al Habala village is worth mentioning. Also known as the ‘Hanging Village’, Al Habala is small village present in the Asir mountains of KSA. This village is a prominent site of the Asir region because not only it remains surrounded by towering mountains but also it has a rich history dating back to nearly 370 years. Preventing the culture of Arabian Peninsula, most of the travellers with tourist visas as well as pilgrims with All-inclusive Umrah Packages come here after the performance of holy rituals in Makkah.
Here are some of the interesting facts to know about the village of Al Habala in Saudi Arabia.
Location
Driving one hour (62 kilometres) from the city of Abha, Al Habala village is present in Al Habala valley. This village is present beneath a cliff that has a slope of 300 meters at the edge of the majestic Sarwat Mountains. Umrah flights which are actually Cheap Qatar Airways Flights departing from UK allows you visit the Al Habala village because it is nearer the arrival airport. Arrival airport of the Umrah flights is Jeddah International Airport. Once you are in the Al Habala valley, you need to ride a cable car in order to reach the village because that’s the only way.
Best time to Visit
The best time to visit Al Habala village is during the summer season i.e. from May to October. The weather here is pleasant even during the summertime, therefore, making it a perfect decision to visit leaving behind the scorching heat of the lower areas of KSA.
History
More than 350 years ago, Khatani tribe used to live in the Al Habala village who were famous as ‘flower men’ because of their custom of wearing flowers in their hair and garlands around their necks. Pilgrims can also experience this culture and traditions after performing the Umrah. But include the tourist VISA in the Cheap Umrah Packages which gives a chance to visit all Saudi tourist attractions.
The reason why this tribe chose Al Habala village is because of the inaccessibility it offers as they were fleeing the Turks during the Ottoman Empire. So, Al Habala village was a perfect shelter to protect themselves from the invading party.
The Khatani tribe was living in this village till 1980s and were self-sufficient because of the small terraced garden and livestock they had. However, when KSA decided to turn this spot into a tourism hub, these people relocated to a more modern village just below the mountains.
Things to do
- Cable car rides here are operational since 1990s. Having a cable car ride is a must because it is the only way you will reach Al Habala village. Just buy a ticket worth SAR 80 per person for the round trip and enjoy the views from the height.
- With its lush greenery and iconic architecture, Al Habala village is a perfect spot where you can trek along the mountains and see homes with antique doors and mudbrick structures. Plus, there are number of restaurants and cafes along the trek where you can go and enjoy your meals, snacks and coffee with a view. In the same way, there are a variety of places in Al Habala village that are only accessible by foot.
- Al Habala Park here features stunning waterfalls and towering mountains where you can go with your family for day trip and spend time relaxing. Al Habala Park also houses well-maintained paths for walking, a mesmerising museum, beautiful gardens, an old mosque, amazing restaurants, a large swimming pool, and a car rental office. There are also some recreational spaces for adults and playgrounds for children.
- Shopping in the local markets of Al Habala village is also a must thing to do where you can buy souvenirs, handicrafts, and local treats of the valley. Also, don’t forget to enjoy the local delicacies of the region during your trip.
- In order to get entry to the Al Habala village, there’s an entry fee of SAR 25 for adults and SAR 15 for children as the village has now become a popular tourist destination.
- If you are travelling to Saudi Arabia soon with Cheap December Umrah Packages, going for the exploration of Al Habala village after completing your pilgrimage rituals is advisable to indulge yourself in the Arabic culture.
- These are some of the factors which make Al Habala village an interesting site to visit in the Asir region of Saudi Arabia.
