Baalbek to Deir El Qamar

Baalbek to Deir El Qamar - Language, Currency, Distance, How to Reach, Expenses, Best time to go, What to Eat, Where to Go, FAQs

Baalbek and Deir El Qamar are two of the most popular tourist destinations in Lebanon. Baalbek is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world, while Deir El Qamar is a beautiful mountain village with a rich history.

If you're planning a trip from Baalbek to Deir El Qamar, here's everything you need to know:

Language

The official language of Lebanon is Arabic, but French and English are also widely spoken. In Baalbek and Deir El Qamar, you'll find that most people speak English.

Currency

The currency of Lebanon is the Lebanese pound (LBP). You can exchange currency at banks and exchange bureaus in both Baalbek and Deir El Qamar.

Distance

The distance between Baalbek and Deir El Qamar is approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles). The drive takes about 2 hours.

How to Reach

There are several ways to get from Baalbek to Deir El Qamar:

• By bus: There are regular buses that run between Baalbek and Deir El Qamar. The journey takes about 2 hours and costs around 5,000 LBP.
• By taxi: You can also take a taxi from Baalbek to Deir El Qamar. The journey takes about 1 hour and costs around 25,000 LBP.
• By rental car: If you're planning on doing some exploring in Lebanon, renting a car is a great option. You can rent a car in Baalbek for around 50,000 LBP per day.

Expenses

The cost of your trip from Baalbek to Deir El Qamar will vary depending on your travel style and budget. However, here are some general guidelines:

• Accommodation: There are a range of accommodation options available in Deir El Qamar, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Expect to pay around 20,000 LBP per night for a double room.
• Food: Food is relatively inexpensive in Lebanon. You can expect to pay around 5,000 LBP for a meal at a mid-range restaurant.
• Activities: There are a number of activities to enjoy in Deir El Qamar, including visiting the village's historic sites, hiking in the surrounding mountains, and swimming in the nearby river. Most activities are free or low-cost.
• Transportation: Getting around Deir El Qamar is easy and inexpensive. You can walk to most places in the village, or take a taxi for short distances. Expect to pay around 5,000 LBP for a taxi ride within the village.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Baalbek and Deir El Qamar is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild. Summers in Lebanon can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and rainy.

What to Eat

Lebanese cuisine is renowned for its delicious and flavorful dishes. Some of the must-try dishes include:

• Mezze: Mezze is a selection of small dishes that are served as appetizers. Mezze dishes can include hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, fattoush, and kibbeh.
• Kebabs: Kebabs are grilled meat skewers. They are usually made with lamb, beef, or chicken.
• Shawarma: Shawarma is a type of sandwich that is made with thinly sliced meat, vegetables, and tahini sauce.
• Falafel: Falafel are deep-fried chickpea balls. They are usually served with hummus or tahini sauce.

Where to Go

In addition to the Baalbek Temples and the village of Deir El Qamar, there are a number of other places worth visiting in the area:

• Anjar: Anjar is an ancient Roman city that is located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Baalbek. The city is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in Lebanon.
• Ksara: Ksara is a winery that is located about 10 kilometers (6 miles) from Deir El Qamar. The winery offers tours and tastings of its award-winning wines.
• Jeita Grotto: Jeita Grotto is a cave system that is located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Beirut. The cave system is home to a number of beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.

FAQs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about traveling from Baalbek to Deir El Qamar:

• Is it safe to travel from Baalbek to Deir El Qamar?

Yes, it is safe to travel from Baalbek to Deir El Qamar. Lebanon is a relatively safe country and there are no major safety concerns for tourists.

• How long does it take to get from Baalbek to Deir El Qamar?

The journey from Baalbek to Deir El Qamar takes about 2 hours by car or bus.

• How much does it cost to get from Baalbek to Deir El Qamar?

The cost of getting from Baalbek to Deir El Qamar varies depending on the mode of transportation. A bus ticket costs around 5,000 LBP, a taxi ride costs around 25,000 LBP, and a rental car costs around 50,000 LBP per day.

• What is the best way to get from Baalbek to Deir El Qamar?

The best way to get from Baalbek to Deir El Qamar is by car. Driving gives you the most flexibility and allows you to stop at other places along the way.