Discover the hidden gems of the small cities in the Southern Dead Sea area: Nachal Arava, Neot Hakikar, and Ein Tamar. Picturesque villages near the Dead Sea with a rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Explore their agricultural roots, engage in thrilling outdoor activities, and immerse yourself in its unique eco-tourism offerings. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the Dead Sea!
Unveiling the History and Origins
Neot Hakikar, Nachal Arava, and Ein Tamar are three small cities located in the Southern Dead Sea area of Israel. These picturesque villages have a rich history and stunning natural landscapes that make them perfect destinations for a tour of Israel. Neot Hakikar was established in 1970 as a subdivision of the British Mandate. They are known for thriving agriculture, with 70% of income coming from agricultural exports. The main agricultural activity in the area is greenhouse farming, with medjool dates being grown in salty soil. The cities also boast a large army base located on a hill overlooking the Jordanian border.
In December 1970, a tragic incident occurred in Neot Hakikar. Due to heavy rains, a large number of rocks fell and crushed a dining room in the army base, resulting in the death of 19 soldiers and 1 civilian. To remember the lives lost in this incident, there is a memorial in Neot Hakikar that serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by these brave individuals.
Thriving Agriculture and Greenhouse Farming
Agriculture is a significant part of the economy in Neot Hakikar, Nachal Arava, and Ein Tamar. With 70% of the income coming from agricultural exports, these cities have established themselves as leaders in greenhouse farming. One of the main crops grown in the area is medjool dates, which thrive in the salty soil. The unique farming practices and the high-quality produce make these cities a must-visit for those interested in agriculture and farming.
The agricultural roots of these cities can be explored through farm tours, where visitors can learn about the innovative techniques used in greenhouse farming. From understanding the irrigation systems to witnessing the harvesting process, these tours provide an immersive experience into the world of agriculture.
Remembering the Tragic Incident: Neot Hakikar Memorial
The Neot Hakikar Memorial stands as a solemn reminder of the tragic incident that occurred in December 1970. This memorial pays tribute to the 19 soldiers and 1 civilian who lost their lives when a dining room in the army base was crushed by a large number of rocks due to heavy rains. It serves as a place of reflection and remembrance for the sacrifices made by these brave individuals. Visitors can pay their respects and learn about the history of this incident at the memorial.
Adventures Await: Outdoor Activities in Neot Hakikar
Neot Hakikar, Nachal Arava, and Ein Tamar offer a wide range of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts. Bird watching is a popular activity in the area, as these cities are home to diverse bird species. The natural landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for hiking and mountain biking, allowing visitors to explore the beauty of the Dead Sea region.
For those interested in eco-tourism, the Eco Desert Park Visitor's Center and the Amatsyahu ecological park with pools are must-visit destinations. These centers provide educational experiences about the unique ecosystem of the area and offer opportunities to engage in sustainable practices. Additionally, Plutit Spring, which overlooks the Jordanian border, offers a serene and peaceful environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Photo Credit: By עדירל - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=37169460
