Baljurashi is a medium-sized
governorate located in the
Al-Baha Province of southwestern
Saudi Arabia. It was historically the capital of the province that includes the tribes of
Ghamd and
Zahran. The governorate lies on the
Sarawat Mountains and serves as a major summer resort, known for its pleasant climate and natural beauty. The temperature usually varies between in winter and in summer. The best time to visit is from mid-August until the end of September. A notable feature of Baljurashi is its forests, such as
Raghadan Forest, which are so lush that visitors often find it hard to believe they are in Saudi Arabia. The governorate is referred to as "the land of one thousand and one
watchtowers" and is known for its ancient seasonal
camel trail, famously named "camel steps." These man-made steps were designed to help camels ascend the steep escarpment, and they stretch all the way down to the base of the mountains. Most of the native people of Baljurashi reside outside the governorate; however, a significant number return during the summer vacation, leading to a considerable population increase during that period. The people of Baljurashi have played an important role in the development of Saudi Arabia. Many prominent traders hail from the area, and it has long been a center of education and commerce in the south of the Kingdom. Historically, Baljurashi was an enlightenment hub and a key stop on old trade routes. A large number of its natives are academics who serve in universities and colleges throughout Saudi Arabia. The governorate is also notable for its contribution to the industrial and commercial sectors. Many individuals from Baljurashi have held high-ranking positions in national firms, particularly in
Saudi Aramco, where several vice presidents are originally from the area. Baljurashi is considered a tribal governorate predominantly inhabited by members of the
Ghamd tribe—one of the large and well-known tribes in Saudi Arabia. The Ghamid tribe dates back to pre-Islamic times and has produced many notable
muḥaddithūn (
Arabic:مُـحَـدِّثُـون), narrators or transmitters) of the
Sunnah of the
Prophet Muhammad (
Arabic:نَـبِي),
Nabī). ==Wildlife==