Rijal Alma Village—Saudi Arabia's Hidden "City of Stone"

👍 Recommendation: Local Perspective VS Online Hype Rijal Alma Village, a small village nestled in the Asir Mountains of Saudi Arabia, is known as one of the "most beautiful mountain villages in Saudi Arabia." Online publicity makes it look like a "Middle Eastern Tuscany," but in the eyes of the locals, it is a cultural heritage site bearing hundreds of years of history. Many tourists worry about whether this place will be overly commercialized like some tourist attractions. The answer is: No! Rijal Alma Village still retains its original stone buildings, ancient folk culture, and you can even meet enthusiastic locals who will share their family stories. If you love history, culture, and unique architectural styles, this place is definitely worth a visit! ⸻ 📅 Travel Guide: Best Time to Visit & Itinerary ⏳ Best Time to Visit Abha has large temperature differences throughout the year. It is recommended to visit between September and April to avoid the intense summer heat and enjoy the lush green scenery of the mountains. 📍 Suggested Length of Stay Rijal Alma Village is not large, and half a day is enough to explore it. However, if you are interested in Saudi history and culture, it is recommended to spend a full day to fully appreciate its charm. 🏞 Recommended Itinerary by Locals • Morning: Enter Rijal Alma Village and stroll among the unique stone houses, experiencing the distinctive architectural style. • Noon: Find a local restaurant and try some Saudi specialties. • Afternoon: Visit the Rijal Alma Museum to learn about the history of the village, and browse the handicraft shops to pick up some unique souvenirs. • Evening: Ascend to a high point in the village to admire the stone buildings bathed in the sunset glow, as beautiful as a painting! ⸻ 🍽 Food Guide: Authentic Dishes Recommended by Locals 🥘 Saleeg (Saleeg Rice)—A Saudi version of "creamy risotto," made with rice, meat, and dairy products, slow-cooked for a rich flavor. 🥩 Jareesh (Wheat and Meat Stew)—A dish similar to Middle Eastern porridge, made with wheat and meat simmered with a hint of spices. 🍞 Markook (Asir Handmade Flatbread)—A favorite traditional flatbread among locals, delicious with honey or sesame paste. ☕ Gahwa (Arabic Coffee)—The coffee in Rijal Alma Village is very special, with a subtle spice flavor, and it's even more authentic when paired with dates. ⸻ 🏨 Accommodation Guide: Locally Approved Hotel Recommendations 🏕 Al Habala Resort—This resort is close to Abha, with a beautiful environment, suitable for tourists who want to explore the Asir Mountains in depth. 🏨 Abha Palace Hotel—Offers a luxurious accommodation experience, suitable for travelers seeking high-end service. Some rooms overlook Abha Lake. 🏡 Shatha Abha Hotel—Well-located and moderately priced, suitable for budget travelers. ⚠ Note: There are not many accommodation options within Rijal Alma Village. It is recommended to stay in Abha city and travel to the village by car or chartered vehicle the next day. ⸻ 💡 Other Tips ✔ Suitable for Hikers: There are some steps and mountain roads in the village. It is recommended to wear comfortable athletic shoes for easy walking. ✔ Photography Paradise: The stone buildings, colorful windows, and valley scenery here make for stunning photos. Don't forget to bring your camera!📸 ✔ Respect Local Culture: The residents here are very friendly to tourists, but it is still recommended to observe local customs. Female tourists can wear loose long skirts or trousers as a sign of respect. ✔ Bring Some Cash: Although some shops accept cards, small food stalls and handicraft shops in the village may only accept cash. ⸻ 🎭 Summary: Is Rijal Alma Village Worth Visiting? If you enjoy cultural exploration, historical architecture, or want to experience a different side of Saudi Arabia, Rijal Alma Village is definitely worth a visit! It is far from the hustle and bustle, retaining its original charm, allowing you to experience the true charm of the Saudi countryside.🚗🌿 Add it to your travel list!