Jeita Grotto, Lebanon: Stunning limestone caves with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, accessible by boat and foot

Jeita Grotto: Marvel at Lebanon's Stunning Limestone Caves

Visitor Fee:

  • The entrance fee for Jeita Grotto is around 18,150 LBP (Lebanese Pound) for adults and 10,850 LBP for children. This fee includes access to both the upper and lower grottoes, as well as the cable car ride and mini train.

Transportation:

  • By Car: Jeita Grotto is located about 18 km north of Beirut and is easily accessible by car. Parking is available on-site.
  • Public Transport: While there isn't direct public transportation to the grotto, you can take a bus or service taxi from Beirut to the nearby town of Jeita and then a short taxi ride to the grotto.
  • Tour Packages: Many tourists opt for guided tours from Beirut, which include transportation to and from Jeita Grotto.

Things to Do:

  • Explore the Upper Grotto: The upper grotto is a series of large limestone caverns filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Visitors can walk along a well-lit path that offers close-up views of these incredible formations.
  • Boat Ride in the Lower Grotto: The lower grotto is partially submerged in water, and visitors can take a peaceful boat ride through the underground river, marveling at the rock formations reflected in the clear waters.
  • Cable Car Ride: The visit begins with a short cable car ride that offers views of the lush surrounding landscape as you ascend to the entrance of the upper grotto.
  • Mini Train Ride: After exploring the grottoes, a mini train takes visitors from the lower grotto back to the main entrance, adding a bit of fun to the experience.
  • Explore the Grounds: The grotto is surrounded by beautiful gardens and scenic spots, perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic.

Jeita Grotto in Lebanon: A stunning limestone cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, accessible by boat

Why People Enjoy Coming Here:

  • Jeita Grotto is considered one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Lebanon and has been a finalist in the New7Wonders of Nature. Visitors are mesmerized by the awe-inspiring limestone formations, the tranquil boat ride in the lower grotto, and the overall serene and mystical atmosphere. The grotto’s beauty, combined with the well-organized visitor experience, makes it a must-see attraction.

How Old is This Place:

  • The grottoes were formed over millions of years, with the upper cave being discovered in 1836 and the lower cave in 1958. The site has been developed for tourism since the 1960s, but the natural formations themselves are ancient.

List of Activities:

  • Walking through the upper grotto.
  • Taking a boat ride in the lower grotto.
  • Riding the cable car to the entrance.
  • Enjoying a mini train ride through the grotto grounds.
  • Exploring the gardens and scenic spots around the grotto.

Additional Nearby Attractions:

  • Harissa (Our Lady of Lebanon): A pilgrimage site with a towering statue of the Virgin Mary, accessible by cable car from Jounieh, offering panoramic views of the coast.
  • Jounieh Bay: A coastal city known for its vibrant nightlife, casinos, and beautiful beaches.
  • Byblos (Jbeil): An ancient city just a short drive away, rich in history and archaeological sites.
  • Nahr el-Kalb (Dog River): A historical site where various civilizations left inscriptions and carvings, located near the grotto.

Jeita Grotto offers a magical experience of exploring nature's wonders, making it a highlight for anyone visiting Lebanon.