2006-09-28 11:48:21 · 12 answers · asked by addu 1 in Travel ➔ Africa & Middle East ➔ Saudi Arabia
Taif is located in the central foothills of the western mountains of Saudi Arabia. Its altitudes of 4,800 feet gives Taif one of the most pleasant climates in the Kingdom. Temperatures are comparable to Phoenix, but without the high heat of summer. It does cool down at night and in the winter. Taif is not a big city, but most of the essentials of life can be bought in the local souqs, or markets. Jeddah is only a two hour drive away
The main attractions include the souq, which is considered the most authentic in the Hejaz. In many alleyways lined with shops, the casual shopper can find carpets, tents, traditional embroidered dresses, hand-crafted jewelry, spices, and Bedouin handicrafts. The towns and villages surrounding Taif are inviting, but Al Shafa and Hadda particularly deserve visiting. Dramatic views, the variety of flora and fauna, and the cool crisp climate make these hill stations an attractive treat. Forty kilometers east of Taif in Wadi Layyah, the bedouin people conduct camel races hosted by the Saudi National Guard every July and August.
More info try this link
2006-09-29 01:49:04 · answer #1 · answered by Eco-Savvy 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Additions to the info already furnished:
There is a very large baboon population in the rocky hills west of Taif. Actually right at the escarpment. The road up the escarpment was a 2-lane road and very dangerous. No one in their right mind would drive it at night.
There is an old Turkish fort east of town. Not much left now but when in use it was one of the signal forts that were used by the Turkish army. There is also a place close to the dam where you can find Garnets. They are still imbedded in the rocks but with a little work, you can retrieve some.
The Souk is, as stated, a nice one. Not as large as the one in Jeddah (none are) but it still has the old flavor to it.
2006-10-02 04:56:56 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋
Taif, Summer Capital
Taif (means "encompassing") is located in the mountains of Saudi Arabia I the Hijaz area, 2 hours driving time from Jeddah. Because of its 6,000 foot elevation and generous rainfall, the city has a pleasant year round climate with mild summers (80-90F degrees) and cool winters (40F, warm clothing is needed).
http://www.alhada.8k.com/taif.html
2006-09-28 11:58:34 · answer #3 · answered by Shannon 2 · 4⤊ 0⤋
Yes, Alot of historical significance from Taif
2006-10-01 23:48:18 · answer #4 · answered by ALI G 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Taif is also very important for the people going UMRAH, coz the pilgrims have to clean themselves and wear the white cloth in the Mosque situated in Taif.
2006-09-28 13:10:07 · answer #5 · answered by Zakir 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
yes...ive been to taif its right next to makkah there r monkeys there that just pop out of no where .....cute!! its mostly all mountains and houses
2006-10-02 11:35:39 · answer #6 · answered by iHanadi 3 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Yes. It is a nice place. I visited there about 20 years ago. Am not sure of the latest development there.
2006-09-30 13:15:43 · answer #7 · answered by JP E 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I've been there several times.
About an hours drive from Makkah.
Pretty cool and beautiful place.
2006-09-29 07:33:53 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋
yyah, its in the west of saudi arabia in hijaz.
2006-09-30 08:02:23 · answer #9 · answered by lupus 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Yeah, just then when i read the question.
2006-09-28 11:51:06 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 4⤋