Umm Al-Jimal - Discovering Jordan

Travelling to Umm Al-Jimal

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Umm Al-Jimal, a pretty good destination in Jordan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Umm Al-Jimal and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Umm Al-Jimal, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Jordan, here's everything to know about Umm Al-Jimal for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Umm Al-Jimal

Umm Al-Jimal is an ancient city located in northern Jordan, approximately 30 kilometers northeast of the city of Mafraq. The archaeological site is believed to have been inhabited since the Bronze Age, but the majority of the structures and buildings date back to the Roman and Byzantine periods. Umm Al-Jimal is known for its well-preserved houses, churches, and public buildings made of black basalt stone. It was an important stop along the ancient trade routes and served as a military outpost during the Byzantine and Islamic periods. Visitors can explore the ruins of the city and learn about its fascinating history and architectural features.

What to visit in Umm Al-Jimal

Umm Al-Jimal is an ancient city located in northern Jordan. It is known for its unique architecture, which includes several well-preserved buildings and structures from the Greco-Roman and Byzantine periods. Below are some of the tourist attractions in Umm Al-Jimal and some information about each of them: 1. The Church of St. Stephen: This is one of the most important attractions in Umm Al-Jimal. It is a well-preserved church and is considered to be one of the oldest churches in Jordan. It dates back to the 6th century and is a beautiful example of early Christian architecture.
2. The Roman Colonnaded Street: This street is located in the center of the ancient city and is an impressive sight to see. It spans for about one kilometer and is lined with columns on both sides. Visitors can also see remnants of ancient shops and markets along the street.
3. The House of the Governor: This is a large structure that was once used as the residence of the city's governor. It is a two-story building with a large central courtyard. Visitors can explore the many rooms and corridors of the house and admire its unique architectural features.
4. The North Gate: This is the main entrance to the ancient city and is one of the best-preserved gates in Jordan. It is a great place for taking photos and offers a glimpse into the city's past.
5. The Byzantine Church: This is another ancient church located in Umm Al-Jimal. It is known for its elaborate mosaics and well-preserved architecture.
Overall, Umm Al-Jimal is a fascinating destination for history and architecture enthusiasts. Its well-preserved buildings and structures offer a glimpse into the past and provide visitors with an unforgettable experience.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Jordan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Umm Al-Jimal.

When to go on holiday to Umm Al-Jimal

The best time to visit Umm Al-Jimal would be during the months of March to May and September to November as the temperatures are relatively mild and the weather is mostly dry during these periods. In the summer months of June to August, the temperatures can be quite high and uncomfortable, while in the winter months of December to February, it can get cold and the chances of rain are higher. So, it's best to plan your trip around these months to fully enjoy your visit to Umm Al-Jimal.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Umm Al-Jimal

To get to Umm Al-Jimal in Jordan, you can take a local bus from the nearby towns of Mafraq or Ruwaished. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or join a guided tour from Amman or other major cities in Jordan. Umm Al-Jimal is located around 90 km east of Amman, and the journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by car. It's important to note that Umm Al-Jimal is an archaeological site, and visitors should respect the site by dressing appropriately and not damaging the historical ruins. It's also recommended to visit during the cooler parts of the day as the site can get very hot during the summer months.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Umm Al-Jimal, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Umm Al-Jimal

Umm Al-Jimal is known for its traditional Jordanian dishes that are influenced by Arabian and Bedouin cuisine. Some of the typical foods of Umm Al-Jimal, Jordan and their descriptions are: 1. Mansaf: This is the national dish of Jordan. It is made with lamb, rice, and a tangy yogurt sauce. It is usually served at weddings and special occasions.
2. Makloubeh: This is a one-pot dish that is made with layers of rice, vegetables, and meat. The dish is flipped over onto a platter to serve, which means "upside-down".
3. Maqluba: This dish is also a one-pot dish and is similar to Makloubeh. Maqluba has meat, rice, and vegetables, but it is served in a different way compared to Makloubeh.
4. Musakhan: This is a dish made of chicken, onions, sumac, and spices sandwiched between layers of pillowy bread. It is usually served during Ramadan.
5. Zarb: This is a Bedouin-style barbecue. Meat is grilled underground over charcoal or wood with vegetables and rice on top. 6. Kanafeh: This is a dessert made of thin noodle-like pastry soaked in sweet sugar-based syrup and layered with cheese, which is then molds into a pyramid-shaped dish. These are just some of the typical foods of Umm Al-Jimal, Jordan that will give you an insight into what to expect if you plan on visiting this beautiful place in Jordan.
You can find general info about typical foods in Jordan here.

Is Umm Al-Jimal an expensive destination for tourists?

Umm Al-Jimal is not typically an expensive destination for tourists in Jordan. It's a small, rural town that's best known for its well-preserved Roman ruins, so there aren't many tourist services or high-end accommodations. However, prices for accommodations and transportation can vary depending on the season and availability. To be sure of the exact cost, it's always recommended to research and compare prices before booking anything.

Where to find accomodation in Umm Al-Jimal

There are several areas where you can find accommodation to visit Umm Al-Jimal in Jordan. The closest city with hotels and guesthouses is Mafraq, which is around 25 kilometers away from the site. Another popular option is staying in the city of Amman, which is around 100 kilometers away and offers a wider range of accommodation choices. Alternatively, you can also consider staying in nearby towns such as Jarash or Azraq, which are around 45 and 50 kilometers away respectively. Finally, if you are looking for a more authentic experience, you can also consider staying in traditional Bedouin camps near the site, which offer a unique cultural experience.
You can check hotel prices at Umm Al-Jimal here:
Booking.com

Is Umm Al-Jimal a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Umm Al-Jimal is considered a safe place for tourists to visit in Jordan. Umm Al-Jimal is located in the northern part of Jordan, away from the border with Syria. The Jordanian government takes the safety of tourists seriously and takes measures to ensure their safety. However, it is always recommended for visitors to take the usual precautions to stay safe, such as being aware of their belongings and surroundings, following local laws and customs, and avoiding any areas that may be deemed unsafe.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Jordan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Umm Al-Jimal.

What type of travelers will enjoy Umm Al-Jimal the most?

Umm Al-Jimal in Jordan is a historical site that is particularly interesting for travelers who are interested in history, archaeology, and ancient architecture. This site is not typically oriented towards travelers looking for fun or entertainment options, as it doesn't offer many of these. However, Umm Al-Jimal can be a great destination for families, as it offers an opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Jordan while exploring the archaeological ruins. Couples can also enjoy the site's peaceful atmosphere and the chance to take a romantic stroll among the ancient ruins. Overall, travelers who are interested in culture, history, and architecture will likely appreciate Umm Al-Jimal the most.

How to get around Umm Al-Jimal

The best transportation option to move around Umm Al-Jimal in Jordan is by foot, as it is a small archaeological site and all of its structures are located close to each other. However, you can also rent a bike or a car to explore the surrounding area. Just be aware that the roads leading to Umm Al-Jimal may not be well-maintained and can be difficult to navigate in some areas.

What to see around Umm Al-Jimal

Certainly, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Umm Al-Jimal: 1. Al-Azraq Wetlands Reserve 2. Qasr Azraq (Azraq Castle) 3. Qasr Kharana (Kharana Castle) 4. Jerash (ancient city of Gerasa) 5. Ajloun Castle 6. Amman (capital of Jordan) 7. Madaba (city with ancient mosaic art) 8. Mount Nebo (biblical site with panoramic views) 9. The Dead Sea (lowest point on Earth with mineral-rich waters) Please note that some of these places might require a bit more travelling time depending on the traffic and road conditions. Also, make sure to check their opening hours and admission fees in advance.
For every travel information about Jordan you can click here.

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