Hostels in GOLAN, ISRAEL

Golan – One of the Many Ancient Riches of Israel

Golan, one of Israel’s least known attractions is a good contender as a major tourist destination for its megalithic edifices, crusader castles and Roman fortresses.

History
The region has been controlled by several civilizations beginning from 3rd millennium B.C till today. The Amorites, Arameans, Israelites, Babylonians, Persians, Romans, Arabs, Druze, Ottomans and Syrians were the controllers of Golan during this while. Post World War II, the French Mandate for Syria declared Golan as a Syrian region but the Six Day War in 1967 made it a disputed territory between Israel and Syria. Today, it is under the Israeli administration but the Syrians still hold on to their claim for the region.

Popular Places and Attractions
Golan contains several recreational and scenic attractions in the form of natural pools, gorges, waterfalls and ski slopes. The upstream region of River Banyas is marked by several recesses having Greek inscriptions. The place is also believed to be having Pan Statues in the past. The Sheikh-el-Khidr tomb is also located nearby the source of River Banyas. There is also a 35 feet high waterfall at the Snir Kibbutz.

Gilgal Refaim is a huge circular-shaped stone monument. Several other archaeological ruins such as Um el Kanatir and Hippos showcase the region’s rich historical importance. Gamla is the excavation site of an ancient city ruined by the Romans during late 1st century A.D. Dwelling houses, water conduits and worship places discovered in the excavations at Gamla as well as Hamat Gader, Hippos and En Gev are quite interesting. Gamla also houses a huge waterfall, an old Byzantine Church as well as a panoramic vulture viewing spot who reside in the cliffs.

Some other popular attractions are the Katzrin Archaeological Museum, Birkat Ram Crater Lake, hexagonal volcanic pool of Breichat ha-meshushum and Katzrin Synagogue. A place called Majdal Shams is popular for its Shouting Hill which is used by villagers for communicating with their Syrian relatives.

Getting Around
Buses, taxis, rented cars and hitch-hiking are the available modes of transportation for getting around Golan. But, these services are either infrequent or unsafe and tourists usually find it difficult to guide their way around this low population region.

Places for Entertainment
Hiking trails, picnic sites, cycle paths and parks are the usual activities that can be taken up for having a good time while in Golan. Mount Hermon slopes are well-known for their skiing facilities. Other family winter activities available in this ski resort include Nordic skiing and sled-riding. Several restaurants can also be found in this area. Exploring the Nimrod Fortress and its surrounding nature reserve is another entertaining opportunity.

Accommodation
Luxurious as well as budget hotels, guesthouses and B&B’s (bed and breakfast) youth hostels, can be found in Golan for fulfilling tourist accommodation requirements.

Currency
The official currency of Israel is the New Shekel (ILS). Foreign currencies can be exchanged in authorized banks and hotels. News regarding daily exchange rates can be found in relevant publications. Acceptability of credit cards and U.S Dollar traveller’s cheques is also considerably good.

Group accommodation in Golan | Youth Hostels & discount hotels