About a two hours walk up the mountain which is overlooking Lalibela at an altitude of about 4000 metres is the monastery of
Asheton Maryam. Its often visited by travellers because it’s a pleasant half-day hiking trip.
The church is carved into the cliff-like rocks. Inside and the monastery chaplet there are some crosses and manuscripts to see. You are allowed to take pictures and even use a flashlight. Remove your shoes!
Nothing too exciting can be seen here but the wonderful location is worth coming up here. Be prepared that the most scenic place with the best panorama view on Lalibela is used as a toilet for the monks. It seems that they like enjoying the amazing view while having a good dump!
The entrance fee is 50 Birr and therefore the monks will show you around and let you have a look on their treasures.
To get to the monastery take the road to the left side of
Blu Lal Restaurant. When the road bends left, go right on the path between the houses until you reach the water pipeline. Follow the tubes up the hill. There is a small hut on the left side when you have to turn right onto a steep path leading up the mountain. Whenever the tracks forks off take the track going up and you`ll be on the right way. Once you reach the plateau head towards the summit on the right side.
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on Sep 5, 2004
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