Flowers of the Desert

Continues from Into the Forest…

No Nightingale did ever chant 

  More welcome notes to weary bands  

Of travellers in some shady haunt,   

 Among Arabian sands:  (The Solitary Reaper: William Wordsworth)

The experiences in Abhah were definitely uprooting our concept of the desert country. On the third day at Abha, we decided to head to Al Soudha, for the longest cable car travel in Abha. On the way, we missed the route and took a wrong deviation. The wrong trudge was only to present us with some unique views.

A wave of golden grass spread near the mistaken path. The golden waves were outlined by striped mud mounds at the far end. On the other side of the golden stretch, wild flowers in stunning hues marked their edge. Houses in traditional architect stood proudly in their leisurely slumber. 

It was scene out from pictures, classic movies and beautiful dreams. There needed not much time for us to stop our vehicles and to get out exploring this wild land. 

The scene was mesmerizing and the moderate climate added to its charm. It was there that I saw a well for the first time in Saudi Arabia. Protected by a strong wall, the well protected the precious water of the desert at its un-gauged depth.

The clear blue sky made the heavenly sight hypnotic for the spectator. 

Silver clouds floated in an entrancing wave as the golden waves danced beneath. The nameless flowers flushed and amassed the bright golden colours at the bounteous green at the edges.

The whole scene would definitely confuse a desert traveler. It was as if the great painter had put the whole leftover paint after painting his beautiful landscapes onto this land. However this unique landscape is beyond depiction and beyond description. 

I listen'd, motionless and still;

And, as I mounted up the hill, 

 The music in my heart I bore, 

 Long after it was heard no more. (The Solitary Reaper: William Wordsworth)