Ever felt like you need to escape the concrete jungle and Dubai’s skyscrapers for a day? Let me tell you about a place that feels like stepping into another world – Hanging Garden Kalba. This isn’t your typical city park. We’re talking lush mountains, cascading waterfalls, over 100,000 trees, and views that’ll make your Instagram followers seriously jealous.
I recently visited, and honestly? It exceeded every expectation. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or just someone who wants a peaceful weekend with the family, this guide covers absolutely everything you need to know.
What Is Hanging Garden Kalba?
Hanging Garden Kalba (also called Kalba Hanging Gardens or Hanging Gardens Sharjah) is Sharjah’s newest and perhaps most impressive attraction. Opened officially in early 2024, this massive mountain park spans 1.6 million square feet – that’s about 37 acres of pure greenery, flowers, waterfalls, and recreational spaces.
Located along the Sharjah-Kalba Road (E102) between Kalba and Khorfakkan, the garden sits at an impressive 281 meters above sea level. The star attraction? A stunning artificial waterfall that cascades down multiple levels into a serene lake below.
Quick Facts:
- Size: 1.6 million square feet
- Height: 281 meters above sea level
- Trees: Over 100,000 trees and plants
- Location: Sharjah-Kalba Road, before Al Hayer Tunnel
- Opened: 2024
- Managed by: Sharjah Government
Where Exactly Is It Located?
Finding Hanging Garden is straightforward once you know the route.
Address: Sharjah-Kalba Road (S102/E102), Kalba, Sharjah, UAE
From Dubai: About 90-120 minutes drive (approximately 110 km)
From Sharjah City: Roughly 60-90 minutes
From Fujairah: Around 30-40 minutes
Landmark: The gardens are located just before the Al Hayer Tunnel (also called Kalba Tunnel) if you’re coming from Sharjah. After you pass through the tunnel, keep an eye on your right – you can’t miss it!
GPS Coordinates: Use “Kalba Hanging Gardens” or “Hanging Garden Sharjah” in Google Maps or Waze, and you’ll get precise directions.
Pro Tip: The drive itself is scenic, especially as you approach the East Coast. Mountains on one side, glimpses of the Gulf on the other – it’s worth the journey even before you arrive!
Entry Fee & Ticket Prices (2025)
Here’s some great news for budget-conscious travelers:
Entry Fee: AED 5 per person
Yes, you read that right! For just five dirhams, you get access to this entire mountain paradise. That’s less than the cost of a bottle of water in Dubai Mall!
Children under 2: Free entry
Who Needs to Pay: Everyone aged 2 and above pays the standard AED 5 fee
Tickets can be purchased at the entrance. As of 2025, there’s no advance booking required – just show up, pay, and enter!
Parking Information
Parking Spaces: 262 dedicated spots divided between upper and lower parking areas
Parking Fee: AED 10 per hour
Payment Methods:
- Sharjah Parking App (most convenient)
- SMS payment system
- Cash payment at kiosks (availability may vary)
Special Parking:
- Facilities for People of Determination (disabled parking)
- Electric vehicle charging stations (2 at upper parking, more throughout)
Important Note: Download the Sharjah Parking App before you visit! Many visitors report it’s the easiest payment method. The app allows you to pay for your exact parking duration.
Parking Tip: The upper parking area is less crowded and gives you direct access to the top restaurant (La Brasseria) and hiking trails. Lower parking is better if you want to start with the main waterfall area and Habib Beirut restaurant.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Operating Hours: Open 24/7 – Yes, you can visit any time, day or night!
However, specific facilities have limited hours:
- Restaurants: Typically 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM (check individual restaurant hours)
- Excursion Train: Operates during daylight hours, roughly 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Play areas: Accessible 24/7 but better enjoyed during daylight
Best Times to Visit:
Early Morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM):
- Coolest temperatures
- Fewer crowds
- Perfect for hiking and running
- Beautiful sunrise views from upper areas
- Morning mist around the waterfall (stunning for photos!)
Late Afternoon/Evening (4:00 PM – 8:00 PM):
- Temperatures start cooling down
- Waterfall lights turn on as darkness falls
- Magical ambiance with illuminated gardens
- Great for families with kids
- Restaurants are open
Night Visit (8:00 PM onwards):
- Dramatic waterfall lighting
- Romantic atmosphere
- Cooler temperatures
- Fewer families (quieter)
- Stargazing opportunities from upper areas
Avoid: Midday (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM) during summer months – it gets hot! Even with all the trees providing shade, the UAE summer is intense.
Best Seasons:
- October to April: Peak visiting season, perfect weather
- May to September: Hot but manageable in early morning or evening
The Centerpiece: The Artificial Waterfall
Let’s talk about what everyone comes to see – the waterfall.
This isn’t a natural waterfall (we’re in the UAE, after all), but the engineering and design make it look remarkably authentic. The water cascades down multiple terraced levels, creating different viewing angles and photo opportunities.
Waterfall Specs:
- Multiple cascading levels
- Flows into a small lake at the bottom
- Surrounded by lush vegetation and colorful flowers
- Illuminated at night with LED lighting
- Sound of flowing water creates incredibly calming atmosphere
Best Photo Spots:
- Bottom level near the lake (classic waterfall shot)
- Mid-level terraces (waterfall with mountain backdrop)
- From the bridge crossing near Habib Beirut (side angle)
- Upper viewpoint near La Brasseria (panoramic view looking down)
Why It’s Special: Beyond just aesthetics, sitting near the waterfall is genuinely cooling. The sound is therapeutic – perfect for meditation or just unwinding. Many visitors bring books and spend hours just sitting by the water.
Things to Do at Hanging Garden Kalba
1. Ride the Excursion Train
One of the most popular attractions, especially for families and those who want to see the entire garden without excessive walking.
Train Details:
- Capacity: 55 passengers
- Route Length: 820 meters
- Stations: 4 stops throughout the garden
- Duration: Approximately 15-20 minutes for full loop
- Cost: Usually included in entry fee or minimal additional charge
Stations:
- Upper cafeteria (near La Brasseria restaurant) 2-4. Three stations within the garden itself
Why Take It: The train route offers unique vantage points and takes you through areas you might miss walking. Each station has shaded waiting areas, and you can hop on/off to explore different sections.
Tip for Families: Kids absolutely love this train ride! It’s a great way to keep them entertained while covering ground efficiently.
2. Hiking & Mountain Climbing Routes
For adventure enthusiasts, Hanging Garden offers proper mountain trails with varying difficulty levels.
Three Difficulty Levels:
Beginner Route:
- Gentle slopes
- Well-maintained paths
- Takes about 20-30 minutes
- Suitable for families with older children
- Mostly paved or stable ground
Intermediate Route:
- Steeper inclines
- Some rocky terrain
- 30-45 minutes duration
- Good cardio workout
- Requires moderate fitness
Advanced Route:
- Challenging climbs
- Rocky, uneven paths
- 45-60 minutes or more
- Not recommended for young children
- Proper hiking shoes essential
What You’ll See:
- Agricultural terraces showcasing traditional farming methods
- Native trees and vegetation
- Waterfalls from different angles
- Colorful flowers along the pathways
- Panoramic views of Kalba and surrounding mountains
- Al Hefaiyah Lake visible from upper points
Safety Tips:
- Wear proper footwear (no flip-flops!)
- Bring water – you’ll need it
- Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures
- Tell someone your route if hiking alone
- Mobile signal is generally good
3. Running & Fitness Track
Track Length: 760 meters
Surface: Well-maintained, suitable for running or walking
Route: Circles through the garden interior, passing major landmarks
Perfect For:
- Morning joggers
- Fitness enthusiasts
- Power walkers
- Casual evening strolls
Scenic Factor: 10/10 – Running among mountains with flower-lined paths and waterfall views beats any gym treadmill!
Facilities: Water fountains at intervals, benches for rest
4. Skateboard Park
A modern skatepark attracts younger visitors and skating enthusiasts.
Features:
- Ramps of various heights
- Rails for grinding
- Bowl sections
- Flat areas for beginners
Who It’s For:
- Skateboarders (obviously!)
- Rollerbladers
- Scooter riders
- Kids learning to skate
Safety: Helmets and protective gear recommended (bring your own)
Best Time: Early morning or evening when it’s cooler
5. Children’s Play Areas
The garden includes three separate play zones designed for different age groups.
Age-Divided Sections:
Toddlers (2-5 years):
- Soft play equipment
- Small slides
- Sandbox areas
- Close adult supervision areas
Young Children (6-10 years):
- Climbing structures
- Moderate slides
- Swings
- Interactive play elements
Older Kids/Teens (11+ years):
- Challenging climbing frames
- Zip lines
- Adventure equipment
- More physical activities
Parent Amenities:
- Benches with shade
- Clear sightlines to watch children
- Nearby restrooms
- Close to cafeteria for snacks
6. Picnic Areas
Designated picnic spots scattered throughout the garden offer privacy and beautiful views.
What’s Available:
- Grassy areas with natural spacing
- Some covered/shaded sections
- Benches and seating
- Landscaping provides natural privacy barriers
Picnic Rules:
- Outside food allowed in designated areas
- BBQ NOT permitted (confirmed restriction)
- Keep areas clean – bins provided
- Respect other families’ space
Best Spots:
- Areas near the lower lake
- Shaded sections under large trees
- Terraced areas with waterfall views
7. Small Amphitheatre
Located opposite the skatepark, this amphitheatre hosts occasional events.
Events:
- National Day celebrations
- Local school performances
- Cultural events
- Community gatherings
Capacity: Moderate-sized seating area
When Not in Use: Great spot for photos or just sitting and enjoying mountain views
Dining Options
Habib Beirut (Lower Level Restaurant)
Location: Center of the garden, ground level
Cuisine: Lebanese and Middle Eastern
Capacity: 215 guests
Design: Circular, semi-classical architecture
Views: Overlooks gardens and waterfall
Seating:
- Indoor air-conditioned area
- Floor-to-ceiling windows
- Outdoor terrace
- Perfect for watching the waterfall
Menu Highlights:
- Traditional Lebanese mezze
- Grilled meats and kebabs
- Fresh salads and fattoush
- Shawarma and falafel
- Arabic coffee and desserts
Price Range: Moderate (expect AED 50-100 per person)
Why Visit: No hiking required! Right in the main garden area, making it perfect for families with small children or anyone not wanting to climb.
Hours: Typically 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM (may vary)
La Brasseria (Upper Level Restaurant)
Location: Top of the garden, 270 meters above sea level
Cuisine: International/Continental
Capacity: 100 guests
Architecture: Traditional wooden construction, rustic charm
Views: Absolutely stunning panoramic views of all three sides of the Hanging Gardens
Getting There:
- Walk/hike up (good workout!)
- Take excursion train to upper cafeteria stop
- Drive to upper parking area
Special Features:
- Three-sided panoramic views
- Overlooks the entire waterfall system
- Mountain and valley vistas
- Sunset views are exceptional
Menu: More diverse than Habib Beirut, offering international dishes alongside regional favorites
Price Range: Moderate to slightly higher (AED 75-150 per person)
Why Make the Trek: The views alone are worth it. Plus, the sense of achievement after hiking up makes the meal taste better!
Photography: Best spot in the entire garden for sweeping landscape photos
Pro Tip: Visit for sunset dinner – watching the sun set over the mountains while dining is unforgettable.
Cafeteria Options
Upper and lower cafeterias offer:
- Quick snacks
- Coffee and tea
- Ice cream
- Cold drinks
- Light refreshments
Perfect for quick energy boosts during your visit.
Photography & Instagram Spots
Hanging Garden is incredibly photogenic. Here are the money shots:
Must-Capture Locations:
- Waterfall from Bottom Lake – Classic shot everyone needs
- Terraced Gardens – Layers of flowers and greenery
- Wooden Bridges – Rustic charm with waterfall backdrop
- Upper Restaurant Viewpoint – Panoramic landscape
- Flower-Lined Pathways – Perfect for portraits
- Excursion Train – Fun, colorful subject
- Night Waterfall – Illuminated with LED lights
- Mountain Backdrop – Wide-angle shots showing scale
Best Photography Times:
- Golden Hour (Sunrise/Sunset): Warm, soft lighting
- Blue Hour (Twilight): Dramatic sky colors
- Night: Illuminated waterfall and pathways
Drone Photography: Check current regulations – rules may restrict drone usage
Nearby Attractions to Combine
Make a full day of your East Coast visit by exploring Kalba’s other attractions:
Al Hefaiyah Lake & Conservation Center
Distance: 5-10 minutes drive
What It Is: Newly opened lake with mountain views and wildlife sanctuary
Entry: Free
Best For: Birdwatching, nature walks, peaceful afternoon
Kalba Bird of Prey Centre
Distance: 10 minutes from Hanging Garden
What It Is: Sanctuary for raptors and birds of prey
Best For: Bird enthusiasts, educational visits, unique experience
Entry Fee: Typically AED 15-20
Kalba Corniche Park
Distance: 15 minutes to Kalba town center
What It Is: Beachfront park with walking paths
Best For: Seaside strolls, picnics, ocean views
Bonus: Combine mountains and sea in one day!
Khor Kalba Mangrove
Distance: 20 minutes
What It Is: Oldest mangrove forest in UAE, can take kayak tours
Best For: Kayaking, birdwatching (including rare kingfishers), eco-tourism
Al Hayl Castle (Fujairah)
Distance: 35-40 minutes
What It Is: Historic mud-brick fort with mountain setting
Best For: History buffs, photography, cultural exploration
Accessibility & Facilities
Sharjah prioritizes accessibility, and Hanging Garden reflects this commitment.
Wheelchair Accessibility:
- Lower garden areas fully accessible
- Sloping paths (no steep steps in main areas)
- Designated parking for People of Determination
- Accessible restrooms
- Restaurant ground floors accessible
Limited Accessibility:
- Mountain hiking trails (naturally challenging)
- Upper restaurant requires climbing (though train helps)
- Some terraced areas have steps
Other Facilities:
- Clean public restrooms (multiple locations)
- Prayer rooms
- First aid station
- Baby changing facilities
- Water fountains throughout
Tips for Your Visit
What to Bring:
- Sunscreen – Even with tree cover, UAE sun is strong
- Hat and sunglasses – Essential for hiking
- Water bottle – Stay hydrated (refill points available)
- Comfortable walking shoes – Not sandals or heels!
- Light jacket – Evenings can be cool, especially at elevation
- Camera/phone – Fully charged for all those photos
- Cash and cards – For parking, food, emergencies
What NOT to Bring:
- BBQ equipment (not allowed)
- Loud speakers (respect other visitors)
- Pets (check current policy, generally not permitted)
- Glass bottles (safety hazard)
Dress Code:
- Modest, comfortable clothing
- Activewear fine for hiking
- Nothing too revealing (respectful of local culture)
- Layers recommended for temperature changes
Family Tips:
- Bring stroller for young kids (lower area stroller-friendly)
- Pack snacks for children
- Use restrooms before hiking trails
- Keep kids hydrated
- Stay in designated play areas
Weather Considerations:
- Check forecast before visiting
- Summer: Early morning or evening only
- Winter: Anytime is pleasant
- Rare rain makes it extra beautiful but paths slippery
Why Kalba Hanging Garden Is Special
Beyond the obvious beauty, what makes this place stand out?
Holistic Development Vision: This isn’t just a park – it’s part of Sharjah Ruler Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi’s comprehensive strategy to enhance Kalba’s economic, tourism, and cultural landscape.
Accessibility for All: At AED 5 entry, this world-class attraction is affordable for every family, regardless of budget.
Cultural Pride: The project reflects Emirati values of family, community, and connection to nature.
Economic Boost: Creates jobs, attracts tourism, and puts Kalba on the map as a destination, not just a pass-through town.
Environmental Showcase: Over 100,000 trees represent serious environmental commitment and provide habitat for local wildlife.
Multi-Generational Appeal: From toddlers to grandparents, there’s genuinely something for everyone.
Common Questions Answered
Is it really worth the drive from Dubai?
Absolutely! The 90-minute drive is scenic, and the garden itself offers a full day of activities. Combine it with other Kalba attractions for maximum value.
Can I visit on weekends?
Yes! Open 24/7, including weekends and public holidays. Expect bigger crowds on Fridays and Saturdays.
Is there mobile signal?
Generally yes, most major UAE networks work well throughout the garden.
Are there prayer facilities?
Yes, prayer rooms available.
What about food – can I bring my own?
Yes, outside food allowed in designated picnic areas. But BBQ equipment is NOT permitted.
Is it safe for solo female travelers?
Completely safe. Sharjah is very family-oriented and respectful. Many women visit solo, especially for morning walks/runs.
Do I need to book in advance?
No advance booking required. Just show up and buy your ticket at the entrance.
Can I see everything in one visit?
You can cover main highlights in 3-4 hours, but to fully experience everything (hiking, dining, train ride, relaxing), plan for 5-6 hours or a full day.
Final Thoughts
Hanging Garden Kalba represents the best of what UAE tourism can be – accessible, family-friendly, culturally rich, and naturally beautiful, all without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker hiking the mountain trails, a family creating memories in the play areas, a couple enjoying romantic sunset views from La Brasseria, or a photographer chasing the perfect shot of the illuminated waterfall – this place delivers.
The drive to Kalba takes you away from Dubai’s glittering skyscrapers into the UAE’s quieter, more authentic side. Mountains replace towers, waterfalls replace fountains, and natural green spaces replace manicured lawns.
For just AED 5 entry (plus parking), you get access to 1.6 million square feet of thoughtfully designed paradise. It’s proof that the best experiences don’t always come with hefty price tags.
So grab your family, pack your camera, load up your favorite playlist for the drive, and discover why Hanging Garden Kalba is quickly becoming one of Sharjah’s most beloved attractions.
The mountains, the waterfall, and the memories are waiting. See you there! 🏔️💚
Quick Reference:
Entry: AED 5 per person
Parking: AED 10/hour via app
Location: Sharjah-Kalba Road (E102), before Al Hayer Tunnel
Hours: Open 24/7
From Dubai: 90-120 minutes drive
Trees: 100,000+
Size: 1.6 million sq. ft.
Restaurants: 2 (Habib Beirut & La Brasseria)
Best Season: October – April
Best Time: Early morning or evening
Family-Friendly: Absolutely!
Instagram-Worthy: 10/10
Download: Sharjah Parking App before you go!
Happy exploring! 🌿
Hi! We’re the Travel Blog Dubai Team — passionate travelers who explore Dubai every day to bring you honest tips, best places to visit, budget ideas, and real experiences.Whether you’re planning your first trip or you live in the UAE, our guides help you discover the best of Dubai, hassle-free.
