Is there an alternative on a more scenic trail, that doesn't involve climbing 1500m?

The hike described above where you start "at the water pipe", is that the jeep road or something else?

Thanks.

To answer my own question, I think yes, there's actually a path just south of the jeep road which would probably be much nicer to hike up.

Most times a road is built to replace a old caravan/hiking trail/ path.
So i highly assume a path is there..