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Jabal Atherb: Al-Baha's majestic peak

Jabal Atherb: Al-Baha's majestic peak

Arab News02-05-2025

Towering at approximately 2,500 meters within the Sarawat mountain range in Baljurashi governorate in Saudi Arabia's southern region of Al-Baha, Jabal Atherb is a captivating landmark rich in history and natural beauty. Its rugged slopes are densely vegetated with juniper and wild olive trees, giving way to lush forests that thrive during the rainy season. Visible from afar, the mountain's gleaming white granite rock formations provide a striking aesthetic, complemented by year-round diverse greenery.
Jabal Atherb features significant historical sites, including areas that were once known for cultivating a prized coffee variety, famous throughout the Sarawat mountains. Its slopes also harbor ancient caves, adorned with colorful rock paintings dating back millennia, offering a glimpse into past civilizations.
Today, the mountain is a crucial habitat for the endangered Arabian leopard and other rare wildlife, highlighting its environmental importance and the need for conservation. Adding to its allure is Wadi Al-Khaitan, a prominent valley descending the mountain, creating a picturesque landscape of flowing water, forests, and gleaming white stones.

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