Kerak

Kerak (also spelt Karak, Arabic al-Kerak) is a small, Arab city (population 170,000) in southern Jordan.

JordanKerak - Crusader castle

Kerak Halal Travel Guide

Z Karak Castle JO 5 - View of the old city of Karak from the Crusader fort

It has a significant Christian population. Kerak is on the King's Highway, 124 kilometers south of the capital Amman, and is the site of a magnificently-situated Crusader castle, now an evocative ruin on the skyline above the city.

In biblical times Kerak was the former capital of the Moab Kingdom. Later it was ruled by the Nabataeans, after which the Romans took over. Under the Byzantines it was used as the seat of a bishopric. Left abandoned until 1140, when the crusaders acknowledged its strategic meaning and built a mighty fortress here. Only 50 years later it was conquered by the Arabs.

Travel to Kerak

There are three bus stations in Kerak. One bus station GPS 31.182708,35.706090 is near the castle, and the Kerak Bus Station GPS 31.165155,35.739623 is in the south-eastern part of the city about 5 km from the old city. Ask someone local which one to use for the surrounding area, or to get to Madaba or Petra.

Minibuses Aqaba (1.75 JD) run roughly hourly. These also pass through Madaba and Ma'an (for Petra).

From Amman, mini-buses leave from the South Bus Station (Mujemma Al-Janoob) when full (2.25 Jordan#Money|JD, 2 hr, Oct 2023). They arrive at the station below the castle. A taxi up to the castle (al-Qasr) will cost 2 JD. It is a 20-min walk back down to the bus station. It is easy to see the castle on a day trip from Amman.

How to get around in Kerak

Between the old city and the rest of the city local (shared) taxis should be used for around 2 JD.

By vehicle and the roads in town are narrow and usually one-way, but the town is compact, so you can park wherever you find space and walk to the castle.

What to see in Kerak

Z Karak Old Town Saladin 12 - Statue in the old city of Saladin, who liberated the city and region from the Crusaders

• Citadel of Kerak - Qasr - 31.180974, 35.701662 ☎ +962 6 567 8444 1 JD, free with Jordan#Jordan Pass|Jordan Pass A former Crusader stronghold, it was ransacked by Saladin and left to rot for 500 years until restoration started. It is impressive site. While parts are still in ruins, other parts have been restored, including some lengthy underground passages. And it had a commanding view of the area. Allow 60-90 min to visit.

• Karak Archaeological Museum - Castle Museum - 31.181130, 35.701083 Opening Hours: Closed for renovations as of Oct 2018 Part of the fortress, no separate admission The museum is in the lower court of the castle. This museum introduces the local history and archaeology of Kerak castle, region and city. Detail history of the Crusader and Muslim dynasty at Kerak is introduced in museum, in addition to the exhibition of excavated artefacts from Kerak castle.

• Al Karak Museum 31.182195, 35.701737Just outside the castle entrance

• Old city - Souq - 31.184921, 35.704693 As the commerical center, many different local shops can be found here, even fast-food or small eateries.

• Roman Church Hall 31.185833, 35.706291 in the old city

• El-Lejjun - Lajjun - 31.236990, 35.868406 20 km east of Kerak The archaeological remains of a fortress built in 300 AD named Betthorus then, associated with the Roman legion and for protection the Limes Arabicus. The fortress was later destroyed by an earthquake.

• Mu'tah 31.092517, 35.696320 15 km south of Kerak along the highway This is supposed to have been the first battlefield between Christians and Muslims, 629 AD.

• Prophet Nuh shrine - Tomb of Noah - 31.18890, 35.70052 The reputed tomb of Noah who survived the flood in the Bible and Quran. On a hilltop in central Kerak.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Kerak

• Wadi Bin Hammad - 31.300668, 35.626435 31 km northwest of Kerak This is an official tourist spot, but mostly only appreciated by local people. This in turn means it is widely untouched and without the common touristic hassles. The wadi can be wandered easily and without much effort in about 2 hr, rewarding the curious traveller with a beautiful green surrounding including waterfalls and even thermal spas (Muslim Friendly). Hiking further will lead you to the Dead Sea, even though you might need help of a guide with the necessary equipment. Be careful when it is raining or about to rain. You might have to take a taxi to get there, because it is not along the highway.

Eat & drink

Many medium-priced restaurants with local and partly international cuisine can be found around the castle. From there into the old city, restaurants get less expensive.

Kerak is most famous for the Jordan national dish mansaf, which you should definitely try. It is Rice with lamb or Chicken hala Meat served with a Sauce made from special Yoghurt called jameed.

• Karak Rest House - Colas 2 JD See also #Sleep|Sleep. Next to the fortress and with views all the way to the Dead Sea (Jordan) | Dead Sea on a good day, but the food is overpriced and mediocre.

• Delicious Meal Walk down the steep hill towards the primary street in Karak, turn right and walk down past the Circle and it's on the left hand side and there is a giant sign with its name on it. You can get an excellent schwarma here and it's really affordable too. Much better than the overpriced mediocre food next to the castle.

• Kir Hebes just down the road opposite the castle entrance - 5-10 JD Has some interesting offerings like ostrich, otherwise fairly good standard Jordanian fare. Has local soft drinks and other alcohol. The tables by the street are nicer.

• Syrian Restaurant green door at the upper end of King Hussein Steet - This is supposed to be an insider tip.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Kerak

Kerak - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Kerak, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Kerak. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Kerak and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Kerak. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Kerak. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inKerak: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Kerak.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Kerak: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Kerak, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Kerak.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Kerak, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Kerak, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Kerak and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Kerak, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Kerak, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Kerak without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Kerak is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Kerak.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Kerak is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Kerak, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Kerak Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Kerak

eHalal Group Kerak is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Kerak. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Kerak.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Kerak ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Kerak. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Kerak, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Kerak are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

• Towers Castle Hotel Al-Qala'a Street, Town Centre☎ +962 3-2354293 Double room: 25 JD Towers Castle in downtown central Karak is an Egyptian-run hotel with large, clean rooms, and it is popular with business and pleasure travelers. Breakfast is included in the room rate.

• Karak Rest House 20 m from the fortress ☎ +962 3-2351148 27.5/40 JD (including taxes and breakfast) - The fanciest digs in town with 3 stars, with excellent views. That said the price for the rather minimal rooms is still a little steep, and you'll be woken up bright and early by the mosque next door.

• Cairwan Hotel King's Highway, Town Centre 31.180074, 35.709682 very close to the bus station ☎ +962 3-2396022 Single from 27 JD - Nine well-appointed rooms, bed-and-breakfast style hotel.

• Al-Kemmam Hotel Al-Maydan Street, Town Centre☎ +962 79-5632365 This small, men-only guest house in Karak's central neighborhood is an excellent option for men seeking basic lodgings. The kitchen is available for guests to prepare their own meals.

• Al-Mujeb Hotel King's Highway 31.170940, 35.731890 about 3 miles south of Karak ☎ +962 3-2386090 The Al-Mujeb Hotel is a convenient option for those travelling with a private vehicle – public transportation is not nearby. Guests will find satellite television and refrigerators, as well as a helpful staff. This hotel is somewhat larger than other area guest houses, and it is a good choice for groups traveling through the area.

Travel Next

• Tafila* GPS 30.834962,35.616836 – a village on the way to Dana Reserve or Petra, respective, might be worth a visit for its authenticity.
• Wadi Mujib GPS 31.466624,35.573677 – great nature reserve famous for its impressive canyons. Read more Dead_Sea_(Jordan)#See|here. Limited access in winter.
• Dead Sea (Jordan) | Dead Sea – besides Petra the most famous tourist attraction in Jordan.
• Madaba – known as the 'City of Mosaics' is famous for its Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, especially a large Byzantine-era mosaic map of Palestine and the Nile delta at St. George Church.
• Dana Nature Reserve – stay in a local village within the Nature Reserve, and enjoy unforgettable hiking in an offshoot of the Great Rift.
• Petra – The most famous sight in Jordan.

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