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The Kerem Tunnel allows for a the most unique riding and hiking experience.

The Kerem Tunnel, Israel’s newest bicycle tunnel, has been opened as part a 42-kilometer cycle route that is a loop around the capital.

It links Nahal Refaim to Emek Motza. The tunnel’s southern entry point is located in Refaim Park below Ein Laban. The northern entrance is located in Nahal Ein Kerem about half a km away from the Kerem junction.

The 2.1-kilometer-long tunnel was officially opened by Jerusalem’s Heritage Minister Zeev Elkin. The ceremony was also attended by Mayor Moshelion Avi Balehnikov, Gihon Water Company chairman, and many cyclists.

Jerusalem was a popular tourist destination because of its rich and fascinating history. Elkin said that today, apart from its historical treasures it also incorporates modern tourists. “The inauguration[of] the tunnel project is another aspect of the development Jerusalem as well as its transformation into a desirable tourism destination for all throughout Israel and the world.

Elkin, whose ministry was spearheaded the project along with Jerusalem Municipality stated that his ministry had invested thousands of shekels each year in the development of Jerusalem’s tourism and also in the creation of new attractions and ventures which will link the amazing historical past and future of Jerusalem. I invite cycling enthusiasts to join us and take a ride along an up-to-date and well-maintained cycling route that overlooks the special scenery of Old Jerusalem.”

נווה פריצקי Elkin’s Ministry Elkin’s Ministry Tourism Ministry, Jerusalem Municipality and the Gihon Corporation all contributed to the project. The Jerusalem Development Authority completed the work.

“The Kerem Tunnel project is the central instrument for achieving the vision to alter the notion of transportation across Jerusalem,” Elkin stressed. “The new tunnel will be connected with the Jerusalem Ring Path. It will connect with the various cycling routes that exist in the city. These will be paved in its numerous areas. The objective is to encourage cycling among residents of Jerusalem.

The Kerem Tunnel was originally excavated in 1990 in order to transfer the main sewers of Gihon Corporation towards the Sorek purification facility. This plant is west of Sorek and is still used as an infrastructure tunnel.

“The Kerem tunnel project is central to realizing the vision for changing Jerusalem’s transportation system. ”

Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lon

Road construction, installation and testing of safety and electrical systems are some of the ongoing works to ensure the tunnel is safe for all seasons.

The Kerem Tunnel also allows access to special recreation areas such as the Ein Kerem neighborhood, the biblical zoo and aquarium along with the historic natural springs of Ein Laban and Ein Haniyeh.