JAZAN: In the southwest border region of Jazan, a place called Wadi Lajab is fast becoming a firm favorite with sightseers from across Saudi Arabia.

Located on the eastern part of the Al-Qahar mountains, it is a popular stop for adventurers, mountaineers and archaeologists interested in the region’s ancient history and the inscriptions that can be found there.

Wadi Lajab is a gully that stretches from north to south for approximately 11 km. After some 3 km it intersects with another rift.

The stream that runs through the valley originates from Al-Reith governorate, which is around 150 km north of the capital city, also called Jazan.

The valley can be accessed via a pass which widens after 3 km to reveal a breathtaking sight — waterfalls, scattered pools, palm trees and moss-clad cliffs.

After being chosen as one of 13 sites in the Kingdom to become part of an elite group of places called Global Geoparks, the valley is now witnessing a flurry of development projects meeting the objectives of the Saudi Green Initiative.