Aseer Region
Aseer Region is one region away to the border of Yemen. This region is particularly special for its cool weather all year round. It’s the perfect region for a getaway from the heat.
It is also best explored by renting your own vehicle as there isn’t any public transport that would take you around the area unless if it is within Abha City which is the capital of the Aseer Region.
The spots in Abha city can be enjoyed by walking from one location to another as per the map below.
Al Basta Historical District
It’s a small district with abandoned old mud and brick houses.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/sBxiDtK39ogSVTFC7
Art Street
The art street has street arts and food trucks.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6AVSQmEXMyH2
Tuesday’s Market
Tuesday’s Market is open all week long despite the name of the market. The market has stalls from traditional handicrafts, honey, clothes, incense, and many other locally made products with a great bargain price.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/M9mRzSLZiyTFVkpm7
Al Muftaha Art Village
A spot that cannot be missed! The village was founded by the government in 1989 to promote art. Al Muftaha village showcases the artistic culture of the Aseer Region. The beautiful mud houses are covered with local style art known as Al Qatt al Assiri as well as graffiti and other forms of art by local and regional artists.
Muftaha Art Village brings together a community of passionate photographers, handicrafts and fine artists.
It can be visited all day long but the stores open from 5 p.m. where you can purchase locally made souvenirs and handicrafts with high quality and great prices too.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6AVSQmEXMyH2
Al Mahatbah
This gem is a definite must-visit. The area has many ponds, streams, natural slides, and mini waterfalls. The trail is very easy and flat with minimal scrambling required in some spots. Don’t forget to bring your swimwear and jump into the natural pool!
There isn’t any visiting hours or entrance fee. It’s a public area and can be accessed by anyone and at any time.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6AVSQmEXMyH2
Tanoumah
Tanoumah is known for its pleasant weather for a hike, climb, and camping. There’s also a popular waterfall in the area.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ggCL1DG7rYc7WadU6
Tamniah Museum
The most beautiful museum I have ever visited in Aseer Region. The museum is surrounded by an abandoned and old neighborhood with mud-brick buildings. Stroll around the narrow alleyways before entering the museum.
The museum has 3 stories with many beautiful rooms that are decorated with the local art style known as Al Qatt Al Assiri which is the painting on the walls.
They also allow visitors to spend the night for a fee to experience life in the past.
Entrance Fee: 2.5 USD
Visting Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. / 2:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Contact Number: +966 50 575 0784
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6AVSQmEXMyH2
Habala Rope Village
Habala rope village was inhabited by the flower men who fleed from the Ottoman Empire. The village was only accessible by a rope ladder, hence the name Habala (Rope). It can now be accessed by a cable car.
However, I don’t recommend visiting the village because there is absolutely nothing to see. It’s best to enjoy the Habala mountain from the top.
Cable Car: 10 USD
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6AVSQmEXMyH2
Mount Soudah
Jabal Sawdah is the highest peak of Saudi Arabia with an elevation of 3,000 meters above sea level. There is also a cable car to enjoy a scenic view of the highest peak in Saudi Arabia.
Don’t forget to carry a jacket or any warm clothing when visiting Soudah Mountain.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6AVSQmEXMyH2
Rijal Almaa
Rijal Alma is the highlight of the Aseer Region. The village is made out of natural stones, clay, wood and striking windows played an important role in trade between Yemen and the Hejaz Region.
The people of Rijal Alma were famous for their bravery in many battles including a battle against the Ottoman. The Ottomans managed to occupy some parts of the Aseer Region, but they were defeated in Rijal Alma.
Visiting Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. all week long
Entrance Fee: 10 SAR
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6AVSQmEXMyH2
Turshi Museum
Turshi Museum is located close to Rijal Alma. It is owned by Mohammed Turshi who is one of the oldest tour guides in the region. Mohammed Turshi built his own mosque, majlis and turned his old school into a museum.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6AVSQmEXMyH2
How to get there: Fly from any city to Abha City
How to get around: It is best to go around with a car. Rent a car with unlimited mileage or contact a driver.
Driver in Aseer Region (price includes a van and fuel)
Contact Name & Number: Ali +966 58 176 8888 (80 USD/Day)
Contact Name & Number: Ahmed +966 50 090 0961 (80 USD/Day)