The Tree of Life in Bahrain – A Miracle in the Desert

Just 45 minutes drive outside Manama, the Tree of Life in Bahrain survives miraculously in the middle of a desert where gas pumps are working everywhere. This mesquite tree stands alone in the arid land and under the searing heat of the sun.

Related: Things to do in Manama

The Tree of Life in Bahrain is a 400-year old tree.

It stands 32 feet high on a sandy hill.

And it grows in the middle of a 500-year old fortress believed to be the site of cults practicing ancient rituals.

It is, indeed, a miracle that this tree is covered in lush green without the gift of rain or water supply.

Some people suggested that this tree is the last vestige of the Garden of Eden.

Though not verified, it is believed that the tree survived through an underground spring.

The spreading trunks are hard, big and strong.

These tree limbs bend and kiss the ground like they’re grateful for everything.

Or maybe, they’re just too old to lift themselves up.

However, the tree is under threat from visitors who vandalize the branches by writing down and carving out their names, texts and other messages. The tree used to have a green fence surrounding it but for an unknown reason, it’s now gone.

Yes, I did climb – because that’s what trees are for, right? And maybe, that’s the reason why the fence was removed. But, who knows?

The Tree of Life is visited by 50,000 people annually.

Hotel in Manama, Bahrain

Bahrain is not a pedestrian-friendly city. So, to maximize your time, I would suggest that you stay in the Old Manama area. Delmon International Hotel is right on a busy street full of shops of all sorts, restaurants, and cafes. Bahrain’s most famous gold market is just right across the street. Many of the cultural things you want to do/see in the city are here. The hotel has its own swimming pool, bar, restaurant, and a massage place.