The majority of the population in Jerash comprises of Muslims. There are quite a number of masaajid in and around the modern Jerash. You can easily locate a masjid. There are a number of restaurants in Jerash that offer delicious local, Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisines. All the restaurants in Jerash serve halal food.
The main attraction of Jerash is the old city. Guided tours of the area are available and will inform you about the history of the area. The visitor centre is at the entrance of the park from where you can get maps and detailed information. The Hadrian's Arch and the Hippodrome are located just outside the main city.
The Colonnaded Street or the Cardo traverses the length of the city and is about 600m long. In the Roman times the main buildings and commercial outlets were located along this street. Under the street lies a multifarious drainage system. The Oval Plaza or the Forum is at the southern end of the Colonnaded Street and was built in the 1st century AD. Beyond the Oval Plaza is the large South Theatre that could seat over 3000 people. The theatre is used till date for musical performances. The Temple of Zeus is between the theatre and the Oval Plaza.
Two cross streets were made on the Cardo, the North and South Decumanus. Towards the west of the Cardo is the octagonal macellum, or the food market, the Agora. On the southern end of the North Decumanus is a small theatre. Two huge baths were added towards the east close to the residential area, the ruins of which can be seen today.
The main highlight of the ancient city is the Temple of Artemis. Built on a huge space, the temple structure can be accessed from the Cardo through a colossal gate and stairway. The public fountain Nymphaeum, a beautiful fountain can be seen adorned with lion heads. Travellers should also visit the Jerash Archaeological Museum that features a large collection of artefacts that were excavated from the area. The area was ruled by the Arabs in the 7th century and the minaret of the Ummayad Masjid can be seen.
Close to the ancient city is a souq where you can get almost all types of souvenirs and handicraft items. In the modern Jerash also you can find a number of places to shop.
Getting around Jerash is pretty easy. The ancient city is accessible on foot. When travelling in the modern city you can take public transport or also travel on foot.
