Plizio Visual Lab
Mount Hermon
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Mountain
Weather…
Water temperature…
Mount Hermon, also known as Jabal el-Sheikh, marks the southern terminus of the Anti-Lebanon range, reaching a peak elevation of 2,814 meters. It is situated at the border junction between Lebanon, Syria, and the Golan Heights, making it a site of immense strategic and ecological importance. Due to its altitude, the mountain serves as the primary freshwater reservoir for the region, with its seasonal snowmelt feeding the springs of the Jordan River. Geologically, it is composed of limestone and supports a unique biodiversity, including several endemic plant species. The mountain holds deep historical and religious significance; it is mentioned in the Bible and is traditionally identified as the site of the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ. In ancient times, its slopes were adorned with numerous temples dedicated to Canaanite and Roman deities. Today, while largely militarized due to regional conflicts, it remains a symbol of spiritual grandeur and an indispensable natural resource for the Middle East's hydrological balance.
- Location: Lebanon
- Top sights: Qasr Shbib · Jabal Ash Shaykh
- Nearby: Rashaya (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 5 | 6 | 10 | 14 | 19 | 24 | 26 | 26 | 23 | 19 | 11 | 7 |
| Rain mm | 69 | 57 | 29 | 18 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 13 | 35 | 57 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The approach on the Lebanese side is often through the towns in the Rashaya district. A local guide is highly recommended due to the area's strategic sensitivity and the complex network of mountain trails present.
Best season
Late spring and early autumn offer pleasant hiking weather and clear views. Winter brings heavy snowfall, transforming the area but strictly requiring specialized mountaineering or winter sports equipment to explore.
Terrain & paths
The landscape transitions from agricultural lower slopes to rugged, rocky limestone terrain at higher elevations. Trails can be demanding, featuring steep ascents and uneven, rocky footing near the higher summits.
What to bring
Layered clothing is crucial, as temperatures drop significantly at altitude. Sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, a windproof jacket, and sufficient hydration are standard requirements for a safe ascent of the peaks.
Parking
Parking is generally available in the towns or villages serving as base camps, such as Rashaya. From these points, visitors either walk to the trailheads or arrange for local transport to get closer to the starts.
Safety
Due to its position near the border, visitors must strictly adhere to local military and security guidelines. Avoid wandering off established paths to minimize the risk of encountering unexploded ordnance in areas.
Time needed
Reaching the higher elevations from the base villages is a demanding full-day endeavor. Hikers should allocate at least eight to ten hours for a round trip, ensuring they return well before nightfall to stay safe.
Geography
Facts
- Highest peak reaches 2,814 meters above sea level
- Located at the convergence of Lebanon, Syria, and the Golan Heights
- Major source for the headwaters of the Jordan River
- Known as 'Jabal el-Sheikh' meaning 'Mountain of the Gray-haired'
- Mentioned in the Bible as a sacred and majestic peak
- Home to the world's highest UN observation post
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Mount Hermon (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the historical significance of Mount Hermon?
It is considered a sacred mountain in various religions and is the site of biblical events.
Where exactly is Mount Hermon located?
It is located in the border region between Lebanon, Syria, and Israeli-controlled territories.
Can you visit Mount Hermon?
Access is restricted due to military zones. Skiing is possible on the Israeli side.
What is the climate like on Mount Hermon?
It is alpine with very cold winters and plenty of snow, often lasting until early summer.
What is the highest point of Hermon?
The summit reaches an altitude of 2,814 meters above sea level.
Mount Hermon: where is it located?
Mount Hermon is located in Lebanon.
Mount Hermon: what is there to see?
Highlights include Qasr Shbib, Jabal Ash Shaykh.
Mount Hermon: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Mount Hermon: why is it worth visiting?
Mount Hermon, also known as Jabal el-Sheikh, marks the southern terminus of the Anti-Lebanon range, reaching a peak elevation of 2,814 meters.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Lebanon →
Nearby cities
Baalbek
A historic city in the Beqaa Valley, famous for the monumental Roman temple ruins.
Hermel
A town in the northern Beqaa Valley, close to the Syrian border and the Orontes River.
Hasbaya
A quiet town on the slopes of Mount Hermon, surrounded by olive groves.
Qaraoun Lake
The largest artificial lake in Lebanon, nestled in the southern Beqaa Valley along the Litani River.
Quneitra
Quneitra was the capital of the governorate of the same name, which was largely destroyed during the Yom Kippur War and never fully rebuilt.
Marjayoun
A historic town on a hill overlooking Mount Hermon and the Jordan Valley.
Anjar
A historic town in the Beqaa Valley, known for its Umayyad ruins.
Metula
Israel's northernmost town, famous for its picturesque fruit orchards and cool mountain air.
Chtaura
A major transport hub in the Beqaa Valley on the main road to Damascus.
Sawfar
Sawfar is an elegant summer resort, famous for its historic Grand Hotel and magnificent colonial-era villas.
History & landmarks
Nature
Lake Qaraoun
Lake Qaraoun is the largest artificial lake in Lebanon, located on the Litani River.
Lake Ram
Lake Ram is a picturesque volcanic crater lake in the northern Golan Heights, surrounded by orchards.
Dan River
The Dan River is the largest tributary of the Jordan River, originating from strong, ice-cold springs in the north of the country.
More places
Baalbek Power Plant
A regional power generation facility aimed at improving the energy supply in the Beqaa Valley.
Temple of Bacchus
One of the best-preserved and largest Roman temples in the world, renowned for its fine and elaborate reliefs.
Baalbek Ruins
These impressive Roman ruins in the Bekaa Valley encompass gigantic temples once dedicated to the gods Jupiter, Bacchus, and Venus.
Temple of Jupiter
Once the largest temple of the Roman Empire, of which only six massive Corinthian columns still soar into the sky today.
🗺️
Anti-Lebanon Mountains
A prominent mountain range that forms the natural and political border between Lebanon and Syria.
🗺️
Ouyoun Orghosh Plateau
A barren, high-altitude plateau at the edge of the tree line, fed by numerous small mountain springs.
🗺️
Mount Hermon
Mount Hermon is the highest point in Syria, forming a striking natural border in the southwestern part of the country.
Rachaya Citadel
A historic citadel known as the 'Fortress of Independence' because Lebanese leaders were imprisoned here in 1943.