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King Talal Dam
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The King Talal Dam is Jordan's largest and most significant dam, located on the Zarqa River near the city of Jerash. Completed in 1977 and later expanded in the 1980s, it has a storage capacity of approximately 75 million cubic meters. The dam primarily serves to provide irrigation for the agricultural lands of the Jordan Valley and generates electricity through a small hydroelectric plant. The surrounding hills are densely forested, making the area a popular recreational destination for residents of Amman and Jerash. Geographically, the dam is situated in a deep valley surrounded by pine forests and olive groves. The reservoir is a critical component of Jordan's water security strategy, regulating and storing scarce surface water for the dry summer months. Despite environmental challenges related to the water quality of the Zarqa River, the lake remains an important wetland habitat for local biodiversity.
- Location: Jordan
- Top sights: Khirbat al Fawwara · Khirbat al Rashuni · Khirbat Um Tell
- Nearby: Ain Basha (13 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 8 | 9 | 13 | 17 | 21 | 25 | 27 | 27 | 25 | 21 | 14 | 9 |
| Rain mm | 44 | 43 | 23 | 11 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 6 | 18 | 35 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The massive reservoir is usually reached quite comfortably by car via very scenic, sometimes winding local country roads that pass right through the beautiful northern hills located near the historic ancient city of Jerash.
Best season
Experience shows that spring is by far the most spectacular and photogenic time to visit, when the otherwise remarkably arid surrounding hills unexpectedly burst into animated green and become completely carpeted in beautiful native wildflowers.
Terrain & paths
The immediate surrounding environment is strongly characterized by very steep, rocky hillsides and entirely unpaved, sometimes unpleasantly uneven and dusty dirt trails that often lead steeply right down to the actual water's edge.
What to bring
Robust, closed-toe hiking boots with good tread are highly recommended for safely exploring the rugged, uneven banks, along with an absolute necessity of sufficient drinking water and adequate sun protection against the glaring sun.
Parking
Free, informal parking spots are often found entirely without issue at the officially designated scenic viewpoints boasting fantastic views of the massive dam wall, or directly along the somewhat wider sections of the main approach road.
Safety
Swimming in the very deep and totally unpredictable reservoir is generally strictly prohibited and highly dangerous; for personal safety, always stay a very clear distance back from any steep, unstable, or actively crumbling soil drop-offs.
Time needed
A typical, relaxing short stop dedicated to extensive landscape photography and a beautiful, gentle short walk continuously along the scenic upper viewpoints usually lasts an enjoyable one to a maximum of two full hours.
Geography
Facts
- The construction of the dam was completed in 1977.
- The reservoir has a storage capacity of roughly 75 million cubic meters.
- The dam structure reaches a height of 108 meters.
- It is named after King Talal, the grandfather of King Abdullah II.
- The dam provides water for over 15,000 hectares in the Jordan Valley.
- The surrounding area is a major site for national reforestation efforts.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town King Talal Dam (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the King Talal Dam?
One of the most important reservoirs in Jordan for irrigation and power generation.
Is the surrounding area scenic?
Yes, it is a beautiful area with hills, well-suited for trips.
Can you fish there?
Fishing is usually only allowed with permission from local authorities.
Is swimming in the lake allowed?
No, swimming is prohibited for safety and water quality reasons.
When is a visit best?
In spring, the surroundings are very green and especially beautiful for photos.
King Talal Dam: where is it located?
King Talal Dam is located in Jordan.
King Talal Dam: what is there to see?
Highlights include Khirbat al Fawwara, Khirbat al Rashuni, Khirbat Um Tell.
King Talal Dam: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Oct.
King Talal Dam: why is it worth visiting?
The King Talal Dam is Jordan's largest and most significant dam, located on the Zarqa River near the city of Jerash.
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Nearby cities
Ain Basha
Ain Basha is located on the edge of the capital on fertile land.
Kufranja
Kufranja is one of the green pearls of the Ajloun Mountains.
As-Salt
As-Salt was once the most important settlement in Jordan.
Fuheis
Fuheis is a picturesque town northwest of Amman, inhabited almost exclusively by Jordanian Christians.
Mahis
Mahis is situated on the hills above the Jordan Valley.
Al-Mashareq
Al-Mashareq is a predominantly agricultural settlement in northern Jordan.
Al-Husn
Al-Husn is one of the most traditional towns in the north.
Russeifa
Russeifa connects the cities of Amman and Zarqa into a massive metropolitan area.
Deir Abi Saeed
Deir Abi Saeed is the central settlement of the Kourah district.
Irbid
Irbid is the economic hub of northern Jordan.
Al-Hashimiyah
Al-Hashimiyah is an emerging city in the Zarqa region.
Zarqa
Zarqa is the primary industrial center of Jordan.
History & landmarks
Arch of Hadrian
This massive triumphal arch was erected in honor of the visit of the Roman Emperor Hadrian in 129 AD at the southern entrance of Jerash.
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South Theater of Jerash
The largest theater in the ancient city of Jerash impresses with its exceptional acoustics.
Oval Plaza
This asymmetrical plaza, surrounded by majestic Ionic columns, served as a connecting element between the main street and the Temple of Z…
Temple of Artemis
The Temple of Artemis dominates from one of the highest points in Jerash.
King Abdullah I Mosque
A distinctive landmark of Amman, known for its magnificent blue mosaic dome.
Qasr al-Abd
A Hellenistic palace near Iraq al-Amir, built from huge stone blocks.
Umayyad Palace
This ruin complex on the Citadel hill dates from the 8th century.
Nature
More places
Dibbeen Forest Reserve
This hilly reserve protects the last remaining stands of the rare Aleppo pine in the region.
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Al-Ma'wa for Nature and Wildlife
This sanctuary in the forests of Jerash provides a safe and natural home for rescued exotic animals, such as lions and bears from conflic…
Jerash
One of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns in the world, often called the Pompeii of the East.
Royal Botanic Garden
The Royal Botanic Garden of Jordan protects native flora while offering stunning views of the King Talal Dam.
Olive Groves of Ajloun
The hilly landscape of Ajloun is famous for its ancient olive trees and the production of high-quality olive oil.
Ajloun Castle
A 12th-century Islamic fortress built by Saladin's nephew to protect the region against the Crusaders.
Ajloun Mountains
A densely forested and green mountain region in the north, forming a stark contrast to the desert.
Al Hussein Public Parks
One of Amman's largest public parks, boasting beautifully landscaped gardens and major cultural institutions.