St George Monastery Wadi Qelt Jerusalem
A breathtaking ancient monastery clinging to a cliff face in the dramatic Wadi Qelt canyon, offering a spiritual journey and stunning desert views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
St George Monastery Wadi Qelt Jerusalem
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking ancient monastery clinging to a cliff face in the dramatic Wadi Qelt canyon, offering a spiritual journey and stunning desert views.
"A hidden gem between Jerusalem and the Dead Sea, offering a unique spiritual and adventurous experience."
Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting the monastery. :pray:
Hydration is Key
Bring ample water for the hike, especially in warmer months. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
St. George's Monastery
Wadi Qelt
A breathtaking monastery clinging to a cliff face, offering stunning views and a sense of ancient peace.
The Hike Down
Wadi Qelt Trail
An adventurous trek through a dramatic desert canyon, leading to the hidden monastery.
Cave of Skulls
Near St. George's Monastery
A chilling and fascinating historical site, a stark reminder of the region's past.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Wadi Qelt
What to Wear and Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting the monastery. :pray:
Hydration is Key
Bring ample water for the hike, especially in warmer months. :water_wave:
The best hike I've ever been on... Wadi Qelt, 30 minutes outside Jerusalem (2019)
Comfortable Footwear
Sturdy shoes are a must for the rocky terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Respectful Photography
Be mindful when taking photos, especially inside the monastery. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting the monastery. :pray:
Hydration is Key
Bring ample water for the hike, especially in warmer months. :water_wave:
Comfortable Footwear
Sturdy shoes are a must for the rocky terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Respectful Photography
Be mindful when taking photos, especially inside the monastery. :camerawithflash:
Local Hospitality
Enjoy Bedouin tea with locals for a unique experience. :tea:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the dramatic beauty of St. George's Monastery, its precarious cliffside location, and the adventurous hike through Wadi Qelt. The sense of history and spiritual tranquility is palpable. However, some find the hike challenging, and the limited facilities require thorough preparation.
"If you pass by, be sure to stop and go to the observation deck. Stunning view of the gorge and the Greek orthodox church. You can see, how much effort the monks put in to make such beauty. I liked it, and not only the church itself, well, if you look at the rock a little higher, you will see two small balconies on the rock- the monks here made small, but very cozy houses for themselves with amazing views. We stayed here for 15 minutes, but every minute I enjoyed the amazing view of this church and this gorge."
I' Lo
"Could not enter because it closes already at 1 pm. Nice view of it from the viewpoint next to the access road. Great setting in a deep narrow gorge. 40 min walk from the nearby refugee camp on a steep paved road, there also seems to be a path on the other side of the gorge."
Marko Trampuž
"Our tour guide surprised us with a visit here but we saw it from a distance. But it was one of the most remarkable sites I've ever seen. Built out of the rock in the mountains it's an actually working monastery. Amazing"
Nick Golbahar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by car or taxi, taking about 30 minutes from Jerusalem. You can also arrange a tour. The monastery is located in Wadi Qelt, and the hike down is part of the experience.
While the region has a complex history, many visitors find the area safe for tourism and hiking. It's always wise to stay informed about current conditions and consider traveling with a guide if you have concerns.
The monastery is situated at the bottom of a canyon, so a hike is generally required to reach it. The trail can be steep in parts.
If coming from the Dead Sea, it's also a relatively short drive to the Wadi Qelt area. Hiring a taxi or driving yourself are the most convenient options.
Public transport directly to the trailhead is limited. Most visitors opt for private transport, tours, or rental cars for easier access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There might be a small entrance fee for the monastery itself, but the hike through Wadi Qelt is generally free. It's best to check on-site for current admission prices.
Monastery opening hours can vary, especially on religious holidays. It's highly recommended to check the latest hours before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Yes, modest dress is required. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered out of respect for this religious site.
Fridays and Saturdays are typically part of the weekend. While visits are usually possible, expect more local visitors and potentially different hours.
Besides the dress code, be prepared for security checks. Large bags might not be permitted inside.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The hike down to the monastery can take around 30-60 minutes, depending on your pace and the trail conditions. The return hike uphill will likely take longer.
The hike is considered moderate. It involves a steep descent and ascent, with rocky terrain. Good footwear is essential.
Inside, you can explore chapels, monastic cells, and learn about the history of the monks who have lived there for centuries. The architecture is remarkable.
The Cave of Skulls is a notable feature in the vicinity and is often visited in conjunction with the monastery. It's a stark historical site.
Facilities are very limited. It's best to use restrooms before you start your hike and carry all the water you'll need.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Dining options directly at the monastery are scarce. Some Bedouin hosts offer tea or simple meals with advance notice. 
Picnicking is possible, but be sure to pack out all your trash to preserve the natural beauty of the wadi.
You might find opportunities for traditional Palestinian breakfast or Bedouin tea if arranged in advance.
Yes, there are restaurants and cafes along the route from Jerusalem towards the Dead Sea, where you can stop before or after your visit.
Absolutely. Bringing energy bars, fruit, or other snacks is highly recommended to keep you fueled during the hike.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior views of the monastery clinging to the cliff are iconic. The winding trail leading down also offers dramatic perspectives.
Photography inside the monastery may be restricted, especially in sensitive areas. Always check for signage or ask permission.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful shadows and highlight the dramatic landscape of the wadi.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the wadi and the monastery. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light shots.
Drone regulations can be strict in this region. It's essential to check local laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day and bringing snacks. While the 'Cave of Skulls' might be too intense for some children, the overall journey through the wadi and the sight of the monastery can be a memorable adventure. It's a great opportunity to teach kids about history, religion, and the resilience of human endeavor.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Pack your own water and snacks to avoid purchasing them at inflated prices. The hike itself is free, and the entrance fee to the monastery, if any, is usually minimal. This destination provides incredible natural beauty and historical depth without a hefty price tag, making it ideal for budget-conscious explorers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of St. George's Monastery
Its architecture is a marvel, with cells and chapels carved directly into the rock face, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape. The monastery is part of the rich religious tapestry of the Judean Desert, a region dotted with ancient hermitages and spiritual sites. Visitors often feel a profound sense of history and peace when exploring its sacred spaces.
Community Insight: Many visitors are struck by the sheer audacity of building such a structure in such a remote and challenging environment. The stories of the monks who have lived here for generations add a layer of human connection to the ancient stones.
Hiking Wadi Qelt: What to Expect
Be prepared for the desert climate. Even in cooler months, the sun can be intense. Carrying plenty of water is crucial, as there are no facilities along the trail. The return hike, uphill, will be more strenuous and will likely take longer than the descent. Consider the time of day to avoid the peak heat, especially during summer months.
Traveler Tip: Some Redditors mention the 'Cave of Skulls' as a particularly memorable, albeit eerie, stop along the way, highlighting the raw history of the wadi.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit