The Siq of Petra: the entrance canyon and the Treasury (Al-Khazneh)
The Siq is the canyon that leads into Petra: a sandstone fissure about 1.2 km long, with walls rising several dozen metres, carved by water and shaped by the Nabataeans. It ends at the facade of the Treasury (Al-Khazneh), about 40 metres high. The walk takes 20 to 30 minutes each way and is not difficult. There is no separate ticket: the Siq is included in the Petra entrance, whose prices are on the Petra page. The opening hours below come from the official Visit Petra site, checked on 23 October 2026.
Highlights
The walls of the Siq
The sandstone layers shift from pink to ochre; look up, the strip of sky narrows in places.
The first glimpse of the Treasury
At the last bend the facade appears in the narrow slit of rock: this is the view people remember.
Nabataean channels and carvings
Gutters cut into the wall brought water to the city, and you can still make out niches and remains of paving.
The Treasury square
The open courtyard in front of the monument is the meeting point; the Treasury is seen from outside, you cannot enter the chamber.
Practical info
Tips
- Go in early: the Siq is quieter and cooler before the groups arrive, and the light on the Treasury is better in late morning. Horses are offered on the first part of the approach and carriages inside the Siq; ask what the ticket covers and agree the price before climbing on. Wear good shoes and avoid the Siq after heavy rain. For the rest of the visit, read how to visit Petra; in the evening, Petra by Night takes you through the Siq by candlelight, and the Monastery lies further on, after a long climb.
How to get there
The entrance to the Siq is about 1 km from the Petra visitor centre (Wadi Musa), along a gently descending path; see the Petra page and Wadi Musa.
Opening hours
Our guides that feature it
Nearby
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