Karak Castle
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Karak Castle

4.4
·8k reviews·Karak, Jordan

A formidable 12th-century Crusader castle with vast chambers, underground tunnels, and commanding views of the Jordanian landscape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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Karak Castle

Karak Castle

Best Time

Mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A formidable 12th-century Crusader castle with vast chambers, underground tunnels, and commanding views of the Jordanian landscape.

4.4
(8k reviews)

"It is an amazing astonishing castle, it is big and worth to visit."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Jordan Pass Advantage

Entrance is free with the Jordan Pass, saving you money and hassle.

🗺️ Embrace the Adventure

Minimal signage means exploring is an adventure! Research beforehand or hire a guide.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crusader Battlements

Crusader Battlements

Castle Walls

Walk the ancient ramparts where knights once stood, offering commanding views of the surrounding landscape.

Instagram
Underground Tunnels

Underground Tunnels

Castle Interior

Explore a labyrinth of dark, mysterious tunnels and chambers, feeling like you've stepped back into the Crusader era.

Reddit
Panoramic Vistas

Panoramic Vistas

Castle Heights

Ascend to higher points for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the vast Jordanian landscape.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Uncover Crusader History

Step back in time at Karak Castle, a formidable 12th-century Crusader fortress. Explore its vast chambers, tunnels, and ramparts to understand its strategic importance in battles against Saladin. TikTok

Navigate with Ease

While entrance is free with the Jordan Pass, expect minimal signage on-site. Embrace the adventure of discovery, but consider a guide or prior research to fully appreciate the castle's rich history. Reddit

Best Times

When
Mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Yuk mampir sebentar ke Kastil sekaligus Benteng Karak, di Kota Karak, Yordania Selatan. Kalau kalian masih ingat film the Kingdom of Heaven, Karak ini adalah benteng tentara Salib yang dipimpin Raynald De Chatillon dan dikalahkan Shalahuddin Al-Ayyubi. Kastil Karak ini ibarat duri dalam daging Kesultanan Ayyubiyah saat itu karena menjadi pangkalan militer Tentara Salib untuk mengacaukan dunia Isla...
@risalah_amar
5K likes • 65.8K views

🎟️ Jordan Pass Advantage

Entrance is free with the Jordan Pass, saving you money and hassle. Reddit

🗺️ Embrace the Adventure

Minimal signage means exploring is an adventure! Research beforehand or hire a guide. Reddit

Karak Castle 🏛 Unveil the Magic of Jordan! 🏜️🇯🇴 📍 From the ancient city of #Petra to the vibrant streets of #Amman, Jordan beckons with its rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Explore the mesmerizing desert of #WadiRum and dive into the crystal-clear waters of #Aqaba. Don't miss the chance to float effortlessly in the mineral-rich waters of the #DeadSea – an unforgettable experience! Sob...
sobeih_transport
26 likes • 825 views
‏الاردن - الكرك 🇯🇴 قلعة الكرك هيك بتشوفوها بس تعالو افرجيكم كيف احنا بنشوفها 😎 Al Karak - Jordan 🇯🇴 ‏This is how you see the Karak Castle. ‏Come let us show you how we see it 😎 0790002020 0797778010
geaa_jo
702 likes • 31.8K views

👟 Comfortable Footwear

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing, so wear sturdy shoes. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Don't forget your camera for stunning landscape shots from the castle's heights. Reddit

Karak Castle built by the Franks during the Crusades, captured by Saladin in 1183 after the crusaders attacked Hajj caravans.
themattpark
61 likes • 2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Jordan Pass Advantage

Entrance is free with the Jordan Pass, saving you money and hassle. Reddit

🗺️ Embrace the Adventure

Minimal signage means exploring is an adventure! Research beforehand or hire a guide. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing, so wear sturdy shoes. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Don't forget your camera for stunning landscape shots from the castle's heights. Reddit

☕ Local Refreshments

Grab a coffee or snack at the local shops outside the castle walls. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Karak Castle for its impressive scale, historical significance, and the adventurous feeling of exploring its tunnels and chambers. Many appreciate the stunning views and the value offered by the Jordan Pass. However, some note the lack of information signage on-site and limited facilities, which can make navigation challenging.

"Cool castle, there is almost no information to be found on site which is a little sad as this place holds so much history.
Entrance is free with Jordan Pass, otherwise it costs 2JD I believe

Also, there is free parking around the castle"

Maxim Mullens

"It is an amazing astonishing castle , it is big and worth to visit although I felt that it was not take care of like Ajlun castle. Not enough information sign about each area . No rest rooms nothing as if it is deserted . However I like it anyway."

Lina Alhmaid

"Kerak Castle is a captivating destination! From the modest entrance, you wouldn't anticipate the vastness that lies within. As you explore, you're led through a network of underground corridors connecting numerous chambers, making you feel as though you've stepped back into the era of the Crusaders. The lack of signage can make navigation a bit challenging, but it adds to the sense of adventure and discovery. A must-visit for history enthusiasts"

Sothy Uch

What People Like

Vast historical scale
Adventurous tunnels
Stunning views

What People Dislike

Lack of signage
Limited facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Karak Castle is about a 2-3 hour drive south of Amman. You can rent a car for flexibility, take a JETT bus, or hire a taxi. Many travelers stop here en route to Petra. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there is free parking available around the castle, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Yes, it's possible to visit Karak Castle as a day trip from Amman, but it will be a long day. It's often combined with other stops on the way to or from Petra. Reddit

Renting a car offers the most freedom to explore Karak and its surroundings at your own pace. Taxis are also an option for getting around locally. Instagram

JETT buses operate between major cities in Jordan, including Amman and Karak, offering a budget-friendly way to travel. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entrance to Karak Castle is free if you have the Jordan Pass. Otherwise, the admission fee is approximately 2 Jordanian Dinars (JD). Reddit

No, advance booking is generally not required for Karak Castle, especially if you have the Jordan Pass. You can purchase tickets on-site if needed. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally, but generally, the castle is open from morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to check current hours before your visit. Reddit

Absolutely! The Jordan Pass includes entry to Karak Castle, making it a great value for tourists visiting multiple sites in Jordan. Reddit

Information on specific discounts for students or seniors is not widely available. The Jordan Pass is the most common way to get value for entry. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Karak Castle features vast chambers, underground tunnels, courtyards, and ramparts. It offers a glimpse into Crusader and Ayyubid history. TikTokReddit

Yes, children can enjoy exploring the castle's many nooks and crannies, but supervision is recommended due to uneven surfaces and tunnels. Reddit

Yes, expect a significant amount of walking and climbing stairs to explore the different levels and areas of the castle. Reddit

Facilities like restrooms are very limited or non-existent within the castle itself, so plan accordingly. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Karak Castle. The dramatic architecture and views make for excellent photo opportunities. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants or food services directly inside Karak Castle. You'll find local shops and cafes just outside the castle walls. Reddit

Near the castle, you can find local Jordanian cuisine, including traditional dishes, snacks, and refreshing beverages. Reddit

It's a good idea to have a meal or snacks before or after your visit, as dining options within the castle are unavailable. Reddit

Yes, several local shops and cafes are located just outside the castle, offering coffee, tea, and light refreshments. Reddit

While not explicitly prohibited, it's generally best to consume outside the historical site to preserve its integrity. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The ramparts offer stunning panoramic views, and the underground tunnels provide dramatic, moody shots. Look for archways and unique architectural details. Reddit

Yes, Karak Castle is highly photogenic with its imposing architecture, historical significance, and expansive views. Reddit

Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, while mornings can provide softer light and fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. Reddit

Generally, no special permit is required for personal photography. Professional or commercial shoots might require prior arrangements. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the castle and landscapes. A versatile zoom lens is also useful. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions in tunnels. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Karak Castle offers an exciting adventure for families. The vastness of the castle, with its many rooms and secret-feeling tunnels, can spark a child's imagination. It's a great place for kids to run around and explore, making history feel like a real-life treasure hunt. Reddit

Tips for families: Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking and climbing. Bring water and snacks, as facilities inside are limited. While there's minimal signage, the sense of discovery can be a highlight for younger visitors. Consider a guide to keep them engaged with stories. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Karak Castle is incredibly budget-friendly, especially if you have the Jordan Pass, as entry is included. Even without it, the admission fee is very low. Reddit

Tips for budget travelers: Utilize the free parking. Pack your own water and snacks to avoid purchasing them at inflated prices. Consider using JETT buses for transportation between cities to save on travel costs. Reddit

🏛️ History Enthusiasts

For history buffs, Karak Castle is an absolute must-visit. It's a significant Crusader-era fortress with a rich past, offering insights into medieval warfare and architecture. The layers of history, from Crusader to Ayyubid periods, are palpable. TikTokInstagramReddit

Tips for history enthusiasts: Research the castle's history, particularly its role in the Crusades and Saladin's campaigns, before your visit. Look for architectural details that showcase different historical periods. Consider hiring a knowledgeable local guide for deeper historical context. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Fortress Through Time

Karak Castle is a monumental testament to medieval military architecture, primarily built by the Crusaders in the 12th century. Its strategic location atop a hill made it a formidable stronghold. The castle played a pivotal role in the conflicts between the Crusaders and the Ayyubid dynasty, famously being captured by Saladin in 1183 after a siege. TikTokInstagram

The castle's design reflects its military purpose, featuring thick walls, defensive towers, and a deep moat. Inside, a complex network of underground tunnels and chambers served as living quarters, storage, and escape routes. Over centuries, the castle also saw periods of occupation and modification by various rulers, adding layers of architectural history. Reddit

Exploring Karak Castle offers a tangible connection to these historical events. The sheer scale of the fortress and its enduring structure evoke the power and ambition of its builders and conquerors. It's a place where history truly comes alive, allowing visitors to imagine life within its formidable walls. Reddit

Navigating the Castle's Labyrinth

One of the most striking features of Karak Castle is its extensive network of underground tunnels and chambers. These subterranean passages were crucial for defense, allowing defenders to move unseen, store supplies, and potentially escape during sieges. Reddit

Visitors often describe the experience of exploring these dark, winding corridors as adventurous and immersive. However, the lack of clear signage can make navigation challenging. It's recommended to explore with a flashlight (or use your phone's light) and to be mindful of your surroundings, as some areas can be uneven or dimly lit. Reddit

To truly appreciate the castle's layout and history, consider hiring a local guide or doing some research beforehand. This will help you understand the purpose of different rooms and tunnels, transforming a potentially confusing exploration into an educational journey through medieval fortifications. Reddit

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