I retreated to town for some dinner and a trip to the market to stock up on water, then headed back to Petra for a night hike back through the Siq and to the treasury. They lit about 2500 luminarias along the path, through the canyon and all through the forecourt of the treasury. There were just a few people, but they encouraged everyone to walk in silence, under the amazing starlit night and to fully absorb the moment. At the Treasury they had Bedouin musicians playing flute and drums among the candles and inside the Treasury for a lovely echoing effect. Tea was served and it was magical, magical.





I lingered, taking photos, well after everyone else had left. I had another glass of tea with the Bedouins and then had the singular pleasure of strolling back up the still candlelit Siq all by myself.


I got up before dawn the next morning and headed back into Petra. The gates open at 6, and I was the first one in. I got to watch the sunrise light up the facade of the Treasury.





One lump or two?