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Due to the current political situation in Israel, there are some important things you should know about ascending, as well as critical changes to our regularly scheduled tours in March and April. We apologize in advance for any inconvenience this may cause, but sincerely hope you understand it is beyond our control.
Please review the calendar below for updated tour dates and times. This calendar is subject to change, so please check back here before scheduling your tour. And please note, all Old City Experience Tours are unavailable beginning March 28. They will resume April 30.
TOURS
Due to the month-long Muslim holiday of Ramadan, the Israeli government has made the unfortunate decision (as they did last year) to restrict Jewish access to the Temple Mount. This means our capacity to schedule tours or ensure ascension at a specific time is limited.
Starting March 22, we are only able to offer morning tours. Starting March 26, due to daylight savings, our morning tours will begin at 9:30 AM. Our regular spring and summer tours (starting at 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM) will resume on April 27.
During the holidays (including Passover, Yom HaZikron and Yom HaAtzma’ut) morning tours will begin at 7 AM. By arriving at this time, we can ensure your ascension, but due to the large crowds, long lines, and security situation (see below), there may be irregular delays, and the group you ascend with will be larger, so that all in attendance have the opportunity to visit the Temple Mount.
Lockers are available at the entrance to the Temple Mount. But due to the large crowds, space is extremely limited. And because of the increased security measures, the Israel Police are less likely to permit large bags or backpacks. We highly recommend you bring as little as possible with you. Please click here to review our Ascension Guide for more information regarding what you can and cannot bring with you to the Temple Mount.
Unexpected closures of the Temple Mount, with little or no notice, do occur during the holidays. If this happens, we will contact you as soon as possible, but we cannot be responsible for closures which occur after your arrival. Nonetheless, our many years of experience has taught that last minute closures are extremely rare, despite being less organized and flexible.
ASCENSION
Tour routes remain in accordance with Halacha, but deviations from our regular route or shortened routes are common in order to ensure your security.
While on the Temple Mount, it is not unusual to pass by crowds of Muslim worshippers and Arab protestors. Wherein they may act provocatively - including shouting or waving Palestinian flags - Jewish groups are highly protected and at no time will you be in danger or encounter any physical interactions with them.
SECURITY
High On The Har takes ascension to the Temple Mount seriously. We ascend each and every day Jews are permitted on the Temple Mount. And every one of our ascensions is both a meaningful and safe experience. We never question our safety and security, nor that of the hundreds of guests who ascend us with us throughout the year.
Nonetheless, as is the case throughout all of Jerusalem and Israel during these times, the security situation is different, and it is important to remain alert and aware of your surroundings on and off the Temple Mount.
During Ramadan, the Israel Police are constantly assessing the security situation. If they have permitted us to ascend, then you can be sure they have determined it is safe for us to be there and the complex has been secured.
When ascending, you will see heightened security measures including a heavy police presence on the Temple Mount, and an increase in the number of police traveling with your group. This is only to ensure your security. You will not be at any greater risk than at any other time we ascend, every day, throughout the year. Our guides will accompany you throughout your ascension, and return you safely back to entrance following your tour.
BOOK A TOUR
We look forward to celebrating the holidays with you in Jerusalem and look forward to welcoming you home on next Aliyah. Click here to book your tour today.