Harad Road
The Harad Road is the principal trade and military route connecting the lands of southern Harad to the northern realms of Gondor and Ithilien. Running from the heart of Jarmát and the Harad Waste northward, the road passes through the fertile regions of Shagâna and continues toward the borders of Mordor, providing a strategic corridor for both commerce and armies.
Caravans traveling the Harad Road carry goods, water, and supplies through harsh desert conditions, requiring careful preparation against sandstorms, extreme heat, bitter nights, and the threat of banditry. The route also facilitates the movement of troops and war-beasts, particularly the Mûmakil of the Haradrim, which were deployed along the road during campaigns for Sauron in the War of the Ring.
Geographically, the road traverses the open dunes and rocky outcrops of the Harad Waste, linking occasional oasis settlements and scattered crags. It serves as a vital lifeline for nomadic tribes and southern cities, while also acting as a strategic avenue for invading or defending armies.
The Harad Road's importance is underscored by its role in regional conflicts. Its broad, open stretches allow for the maneuvering of Mûmakil in battle, while the surrounding desert provides natural defenses that challenge enemies unfamiliar with the terrain. Despite its hazards, the road remains the primary north-south artery of Harad, connecting distant regions and sustaining trade, travel, and military campaigns.
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A map of Haradwaith
