Schools are closed for Academic year break for the year 2016-2017 We have been exploring new places of interest in and around Jeddah (Read previous post “Visit to Dhaban Marine Park”).
One such place is the man made Forest (Grove) in Jeddah which is known as Eastern forest. It is not a natural forest, the trees are planted and maintained in vast area (Quite vast).
Location:
Eastern forest is 21KM from Jeddah and it will take around 30min to reach there. It’s off the highway from Jeddah to Jumum. Take Bariman exit towards Jumum and drive for around 14km, then take the small side road (drive slowly as there are no clear sign boards) and proceed down the road for 4km to reach the Eastern Forest. If you are using Google maps search for “Forest East” which guides you to the exact location.
Entrance fees:
Entry to the forest is free of cost and entry is allowed only for families. As I understand, the park is open for public only on Thursday and weekends from 9am to 9PM. But it’s advisable to leave the forest before sunset.
About the Eastern Forest:
Decorative plants and well-trimmed lush green lawns on both sides welcomes you on the entrance of the grove. It provides a picture perfect location to show your photography skills. The access road runs throughout the forest, drive through the access road to get good view of the Grove. One side of the Grove is full of coniferous trees and the other side is full of Neem trees.
The first stop is a small hill inside the forest area, try hiking up the hill. Kids would love it. We went to the highest point of the hill, from there my SUV looked like a little hot wheels toy car.
Small wild shrubs with little yellow flowers attracted my attention. It doesn't have fragrance but is a treat to the eyes
The second stop is the watch tower from which you can get a good Ariel view of the Grove and beyond
Watch Tower
View From the watch Tower
The third stop is to find a place inside the forest to sit and relax with family(you can take the car inside the woods). You can take a stroll inside the Grove. Inside the Grove you can hear the chirping of the birds.. follow the chirping sound(mini adventure) and you can find some small birds singing and flying around. While strolling around the Grove, mind your steps as there are lot of ants and sticking grassWe left after the sunset and spent some time in the lawn before we decided to leave. The best time to visit the park is between 3pmand 7pm. It’s not a good option to do BBQ as there is chance of fire spreading very fast due to dry leaves all around, but you can pack your lunch and have it over in the Grove.
Eastern forest is a great escape spot from daily routine and stress and for those who are looking for a relaxed weekend.
(Read also: Fabulous and lively city of Jeddah)
Hope you have enjoyed the post and stay tuned with my blog for more interesting post
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Blog Article by: Allwyn Chellakumar
