Plizio Visual Lab
Hinnom Valley
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
valley
The Hinnom Valley, historically referred to as Gehenna, holds immense archaeological and religious weight. Curving around the southern and western edges of Jerusalem's Old City, it forms a dramatic limestone gorge at the foot of Mount Zion. The area is dotted with ancient rock-cut tombs, many dating back to the Second Temple period, providing crucial insights into ancient burial customs, particularly around the Akeldama site. Today, the valley serves as a vital green lung for the city, featuring a network of trails that meander through olive groves and pine clusters. Its steep cliffs are a rare urban feature, attracting local rock climbers and offering a stark natural contrast to the historic city walls nearby.
- Location: Palestinian Territories
- Top sights: Rehavia Windmill · Chapel of Terra Sancta · Herods Tombs
- Nearby: Al-Eizariya (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 12 | 15 | 18 | 22 | 25 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 23 | 18 | 14 |
| Rain mm | 88 | 62 | 37 | 21 | 5 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 14 | 46 | 83 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The valley is incredibly accessible by foot directly from the Old City of Jerusalem; visitors can easily walk out from the Jaffa Gate or Mount Zion areas, descending via well-paved pedestrian paths into this historically significant surrounding gorge.
Best season
Spring is universally considered the prime time to visit when the Mediterranean greenery is in full bloom and temperatures are moderate, although crisp winter days also offer excellent conditions for extensive walking and photography without overheating.
Terrain & paths
The environment is defined by steep, rocky limestone cliffs and manicured park-like trails; modern developments include improved stairways, suspension bridges, and paved walkways, making the descent and ascent much easier than in ancient times.
What to bring
Comfortable urban walking shoes with good grip are perfectly adequate; a water bottle, a hat, and a camera to capture the dramatic clash between the ancient city walls and the deep natural valley below are the only essential items needed here.
Parking
Utilizing the structured, paid municipal parking lots situated immediately outside the walls of the Old City, such as those near the Mamilla neighborhood or Mount Zion, is the most practical and secure option for visitors driving to the location.
Safety
The area is generally very safe and widely frequented by pedestrians during daylight hours, but sticking to well-lit main paths, avoiding isolated cliff edges, and being mindful of the significant stair climbs if one has mobility issues is always wise.
Time needed
Strolling through the valley, enjoying the restored recreational areas, and stopping to observe historical tombs and rock faces usually takes about one to two hours, seamlessly fitting into a broader walking tour of Jerusalem's diverse outskirts.
Geography
Facts
- The valley marks the border between East and West Jerusalem
- Tombs from the 7th century BC were discovered here
- The term Gehenna is derived from the name Geh Hinnom
- It is now a popular spot for rock climbing and hiking
- The Akeldama Monastery is located on its southern edge
- Iron ores were processed here in ancient times
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 Hinnom Valley (12)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Hinnom Valley?
It is located just south of Jerusalem's Old City.
Is access to the Hinnom Valley free?
Yes, the valley is publicly accessible.
Is it a place rich in history?
Very much so, the valley is closely linked with ancient texts.
Is the area suitable for a walk?
Yes, there are well-laid paths for hikers.
When should one visit the valley?
Early morning or at sunset for the best views.
Hinnom Valley: where is it located?
Hinnom Valley is located in Palestinian Territories.
Hinnom Valley: what is there to see?
Highlights include Rehavia Windmill, Chapel of Terra Sancta, Herods Tombs.
Hinnom Valley: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Hinnom Valley: why is it worth visiting?
The Hinnom Valley, historically referred to as Gehenna, holds immense archaeological and religious weight.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Palestinian Territories →
Nearby cities
East Jerusalem
East Jerusalem includes the Old City and major religious sites such as the Dome of the Rock.
Hebron Old City
Hebron's Old City is characterized by narrow alleys and Mamluk architecture.
Hebron
Hebron is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, famous for the Cave of the Patriarchs.
Ramallah
Ramallah is the political and economic administrative center of the West Bank.
Yatta
Yatta is in the southern Hebron Governorate and is a hub for livestock and agriculture.
Al-Bireh
Al-Bireh is adjacent to Ramallah, forming a continuous urban area.
Surif
Surif is located in the northwestern Hebron Governorate near the Green Line.
Al-Ram
Al-Ram is located north of Jerusalem and is a busy commercial and residential area.
Halhul
Halhul is located north of Hebron on one of the highest points in the West Bank.
Dura
Dura is located in the Hebron Governorate and is a key regional center.
Bani Na'im
Bani Na'im is located east of Hebron and is known as the 'City of Martyrs'.
Jericho
Jericho is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, located deep below sea level.
As-Samu
As-Samu is the southernmost town in the Hebron Governorate.
Idhna
Idhna is located west of Hebron near the Green Line.
Sa'ir
Sa'ir is located northeast of Hebron in a deep valley.
