Northern Governorate Family Adventure: Discovering Bahrain’s Hidden Gems

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Janabiya, Northern Governorate

Family-Friendly Adventures in Janabiya, Northern Governorate!

Royal Camel Farm

Family-Friendly view of Royal Camel Farm in Janabiya, Northern Governorate

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure at the Royal Camel Farm in Bahrain, a unique destination that promises fun and education for all ages! Here"s your go-to itinerary for a perfect day out:

### Morning Arrival:

- Getting There: The Royal Garm Farm is located in Janabiya, just outside of Manama. You can easily drive there, take a taxi, or arrange a private tour from your hotel. Parking is freely available.

- Start Your Tour: Aim to arrive in the morning when the weather is cooler. The farm opens at 8 AM, allowing you to beat the heat and the crowds.

### Explore the Farm:

- Meet the Camels: Begin your tour with a meet and greet with over 500 camels of different ages and sizes. Learn fascinating facts about these gentle giants, such as their ability to drink up to 40 gallons of water in one go!

- Feeding Time: Bring along some carrots or buy feed at the farm to have a personal interaction with the camels. It’s a perfect photo op and a joyous moment for children and adults alike!

### Educational Fun:

- Learn from the Experts: Engage with the caretakers to discover more about the camels" roles in Bahraini culture and their adaptations to desert life. Don’t miss out on understanding why this farm was set up by Bahrain’s King himself!

- Interactive Quiz: After the tour, participate in a family-friendly quiz at the visitor center to test your new knowledge about camels.

### Lunch Break:

- Picnic Time: Pack a picnic to enjoy in the designated eating area. Relish your meal while soaking in the pastoral ambiance of the farm.

### Departure:

- Souvenir Shop: Before heading out, stop by the gift shop for unique keepsakes like camel milk chocolates or plush toys.

- Wrap Up Around 1 PM: Plan to leave before the midday sun intensifies, perfect timing for a nap for the kids after an eventful morning.

This tour not only offers a chance to interact with the majestic camels but also provides insights into the cultural heritage of Bahrain, making it a must-visit for families looking to create lasting memories.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Al Fateh Grand Mosque

Family-Friendly view of Al Fateh Grand Mosque in Janabiya, Northern Governorate

Why Visit?

Embark on a fascinating family day out at the Al Fateh Grand Mosque in Manama, Bahrain. Known for its majestic architecture and cultural significance, it"s one of the largest mosques in the world and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

Arrival and Preparation

The mosque welcomes visitors of all faiths from Saturday to Thursday, 9 AM to 4 PM. Be sure to dress modestly; long sleeves and trousers or long skirts are ideal. If needed, women can borrow headscarves at the entrance.

Getting There

Located in the Juffair area of Manama, the mosque is easily accessible by taxi or car from any part of the city. There"s ample parking available if you"re driving, or you can use the public bus services that stop nearby.

Touring the Mosque

Start your visit with a free guided tour, which typically lasts about an hour. These tours are a fantastic way to learn about the mosque’s architecture, featuring the world’s largest fiberglass dome and exquisite Italian marble floors. Guides also delve into the Islamic faith and the role of the mosque in the community.

Key Highlights

- The Library: Home to over 7,000 religious books, the library inside the mosque offers a quiet corner to explore Islamic scholarly works, some of which are centuries old.

- The Dome and the Minaret: Marvel at the intricate calligraphy encircling the base of the dome and the breathtaking views from the minaret.

- Interactive Displays: Some areas of the mosque feature interactive displays that are particularly engaging for children, helping them learn about the history and cultural practices of Islam in a fun and interactive way.

Wrap Up Your Visit

Conclude your visit by relaxing in the tranquil surroundings of the mosque"s exterior, where the reflective pools and lush gardens provide a perfect setting for family photos and peaceful reflection.

This visit not only promises a deeper understanding of a rich culture but also provides a serene and enlightening experience for the entire family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Bahrain Fort (Qal"at al-Bahrain)

Family-Friendly view of Bahrain Fort (Qal

Why Visit?

### Family Adventure at Bahrain Fort (Qal"at al-Bahrain)

Morning Arrival

Start your day early and head to Bahrain Fort, located in the northern coast of Bahrain, about a 10-minute drive from Manama city center. You can easily take a taxi or drive; parking is available on site. As you approach, the magnificent fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, captures your imagination, reflecting Bahrain’s rich history that dates back to the Dilmun era around 2300 BC.

Guided Tour Exploration

Begin with a guided tour available at the entrance. The tour is child-friendly, focusing on engaging stories rather than plain historical facts, making it captivating for kids. Learn about the fort’s evolution through six cultural periods, from the Dilmun era to the Islamic era. The guides often share fascinating tales of ancient residents and the fort"s strategic importance in trade and military over centuries.

Interactive Museum Visit

Post-tour, visit the site museum located at the fort’s entrance. The museum showcases artifacts found during excavations, including old coins, pottery, and tools. Interactive screens provide a fun learning experience for the kids, letting them digitally uncover layers of history.

Picnic and Play

For lunch, enjoy a family picnic at the nearby park with views of the fort and the sea. Bring your own snacks and a blanket to sit on the grassy areas. The park also offers some space for kids to play and explore safely.

Sunset at the Sea

Conclude your visit by walking down to the seashore adjacent to the fort. It’s a perfect spot to watch the sunset and reflect on the day’s journey through history.

Quick Tips

- Wear comfortable shoes as there’s quite a bit of walking.

- Bring hats and sunscreen on sunny days.

This family-friendly itinerary to Bahrain Fort not only educates but also entertains, ensuring a memorable trip for both kids and adults.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Bahrain National Museum

Family-Friendly view of Bahrain National Museum in Janabiya, Northern Governorate

Why Visit?

Visit Itinerary for a Family Day-Out at the Bahrain National Museum

Morning Arrival

Start your family day out at the Bahrain National Museum, which opens at 10 AM. The museum is conveniently located on the King Faisal Highway in Manama and is easily accessible by taxi or bus. If you"re driving, there"s ample parking available on-site.

Explore the Exhibitions

Upon entering, start with the Natural History Hall where kids can learn about Bahrain’s flora and fauna through engaging displays, including a life-size model of a Dilmun Seal. This early introduction sets the scene for Bahrain"s rich ecological tapestry and ancient history.

Interactive Learning

Next, head to the Customs and Traditions Hall which showcases Bahraini cultural artifacts. This section is interactive; children can try on traditional clothing and play with replicas of ancient Dilmun toys. This hands-on approach helps kids connect with the history in a fun, memorable way.

Lunch Break

By noon, take a break at the museum’s café. It offers light meals and a stunning view of the sea—perfect for a family lunch. Plus, the glass walls allow you to admire the traditional dhows (boats) while dining.

Afternoon Activities

Post-lunch, visit the Art and Manuscripts Hall, which features beautiful Islamic art and Quranic manuscripts. Here, families can appreciate the intricate artistry and learn about the Islamic influence on Bahrain’s history through accessible storytelling for children.

Wrapping Up

Conclude your visit at the gift shop where kids can pick souvenires like miniature dhow models or traditional Bahraini handicrafts as a memento of their educational adventure.

Throughout your visit, you’ll find that each exhibit includes information plaques in both Arabic and English, ensuring that you don’t miss out on any fascinating facts. Enjoy your educational journey through the heritage of Bahrain in the most family-friendly way at the Bahrain National Museum!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Tree of Life (Shajarat-al-Hayat)

Family-Friendly view of Tree of Life (Shajarat-al-Hayat) in Janabiya, Northern Governorate

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating family adventure to Bahrain"s mysterious and awe-inspiring Tree of Life, a natural wonder that stands as a solitary testament to life in the heart of the desert. Located about 2 kilometers from Jebel Dukhan, Bahrain"s highest point, the tree is easily accessible by a short drive from Manama, roughly 40 minutes away.

Itinerary

Morning

Start your journey early in the morning with a comfortable drive from Manama towards the tree. You can rent a car or take a taxi to reach this iconic site. As you travel, enjoy the scenic views of Bahrain’s oil fields and desert landscapes.

Upon arrival, marvel at the sight of the Tree of Life, a 400-year-old mesquite tree that stands alone in the arid conditions without any visible source of water. It’s a perfect spot for family photos and to ponder the resilience of nature. Engage the kids with interesting facts about the tree — despite its isolation and harsh surroundings, it reaches up to 10 meters in height and its roots go deep into the sand to find water.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic under the shade of the tree. Pack a lunch from home or grab some local snacks like samboosas or shawarma from a nearby market before heading to the site.

Afternoon

Post lunch, take a short drive to the nearby Oil Museum to learn about Bahrain’s oil history, which interestingly contrasts with your earlier visit to a natural landmark. The museum is small but informative, providing a good overview of the oil industry that dominates the region.

Evening

Return to Manama for dinner. Opt for one of the family-friendly restaurants by the sea, offering delightful views and a taste of local cuisine like Machboos or Muhammar.

This day trip not only gives a glimpse into Bahrain’s natural beauty and resilience but also educates on its modern economic landscape, offering a full and enriching experience for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.