ONE GOOD LIFE
  • HOME
  • TRAVELOGUE
  • TRAVEL TIPS
  • BLOG
  • FEEDBACK
  • HOME
  • TRAVELOGUE
  • TRAVEL TIPS
  • BLOG
  • FEEDBACK

Hidden Canyon of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

2/17/2021

0 Comments

 
Sunny day with family @ Hidden Canyon

Im not sure when my thing for canyons actually started. But I have always been fascinated with canyons, either underwater or in the ground or high upland.

Last Friday, right after our usual biking routine at Wadi Hanifa, the #ocampers (lol i’ve just made that up to call Ocampo fam campers) headed a bit quite far down southern Riyadh to see the infamous hidden canyon.
​
It was almost lunch time when we reached the area. We decided to park on the right side facing South. There were few vehicles already in the area and while we were fixing our picnic mat and whatnots, two more cars came in with at least three western families with kids.
Picture
There was no water in the canyons as it has not rained since almost a few weeks, but the wind was a bit cold. Quite disappointing though because we have seen photos in the net of how beautiful the canyons are when there’s water on it.
What makes the Hidden Canyon special? Also known as Mawan Valley, the Hidden Canyon of Riyadh is considered to be one of the most important archaeological sites in Saudi Arabia.

Located near the city of Ad-Dilam, not very far from the center of Riyadh, it is also a site of stunning natural beauty which cannot be seen from a distance but only by standing at its head unlike many other canyons that we see on our way out of Riyadh.
Picture
Picture
Picture

​The majestic view from the top of the hidden valley consists of two stone structures on both sides. The foundations of the wall were supported by high stone slabs while the wall itself is around 6 meters high or even more. The tower-like structures are conical in shape, with their centers open to the bottom, and they look like a cave without a roof.

I was contented from staying on top watching my kids go deep down the canyon all the way down to the center where the deepest part is. I could imagine how in many million years back, this very same colossal landscape was underwater and slowly forming its now magnificent shape.
​
Picture

We spent a few more hours relaxing in our newly found spot outside the city. We also had a share of freshly cooked chicken biryani from our Indian friends.
​
Taking one last look at the canyon before we leave the place, I somehow realized what makes a canyon special. Being such a vast, breathtaking spectacle as it is, a canyon is formed after many years of struggle from harsh environment and weather conditions - which I guess makes it a happy ending. Indeed, this not so “hidden” canyon with its stiff and stepped terraces, sandy bottom and scattering of smallholdings is worth the admiration.
​
Picture
0 Comments



Leave a Reply.

    Happiness

    My happiness comes from the people who believe in me and inspire me every day. They are my strength.

    Life is a beautiful, fleeting journey.

    Despite the challenges, I see beauty and miracles everywhere.
    Growing up was tough, but my Dad was my beacon of hope. He taught me to believe in myself and to embrace life's limitless possibilities. His lessons and spirit guide me still.
    I lost him years ago, but I carry his memory everywhere I go, hoping he's proud of me—as I've always been of him.

    I promised him I'd live life to the fullest.
    ​
    Now, I find joy in writing, traveling, and simply living, cherishing each moment. This, I believe, is something we all should embrace: finding happiness in every part of life.
    Picture

    Archives

    June 2025
    May 2025
    October 2024
    September 2024
    August 2024
    July 2024
    June 2024
    May 2024
    December 2023
    November 2023
    October 2023
    May 2022
    May 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    June 2019
    May 2019
    August 2018
    July 2017
    May 2016
    March 2015
    December 2014
    November 2013
    September 2013
    June 2012
    February 2012
    November 2011
    October 2011
    June 2011
    March 2011
    February 2011
    January 2011
    December 2010
    November 2010
    August 2009
    July 2009
    June 2009
    November 2008
    October 2008

    RSS Feed

Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates.
  • HOME
  • TRAVELOGUE
  • TRAVEL TIPS
  • BLOG
  • FEEDBACK