Seven kilometers south east of Bethlehem, this valley, named after a monk, is a very attractive and intriguing ancient and natural site. Extending between two mountains south of the Freidees mount (Herodion), Khreitoun valley contains numerous caves many of them used by the Palestinian population up until 40 years ago. In addition to being an extremely interesting hiking area, the valley contains three pre-historic caves: 'Irq al Ahmar, Um Qal'a, and Um Qatfa. To reach these caves you need to walk down in the valley itself. The first cave, 'Irq al Ahmar, is reached after about 1.5 kms walk on the left hand side and requires a short climb. It is a natural cave with evidence of human settlement dating back to 50,000 –2500 BC. If you continue walking on the mountain itself you reach the 'Um Qal'a cave after less than one kilometer. Human settlement there dates back to 4000 BC. 'Um Qatafa is the third cave where prehistoric evidence was found, as well as the first brazier in the Middle East. These caves were excavated between 1929 - 1948.

The Khreitoun cave, named after a Turkish monk who lived in the area in the 4th century AD, can be reached by walking on the ridge of the mountain on the right hand side, opposite the pre-historic caves. Four kilometers away (about one hours brisk walk) from the beginning of the valley you reach the cave which is more like a tunnel that is said to extend 17 kms inside the mountain. However, the maximum distance at-tempted into the cave so far has been 150 meters. Torch lights are needed, and it requires crawling in some areas. People who suffer claustrophobia or asthma are discouraged to attempt entry into this cave. In the spring, the area is abundant with wild flowers and green patches can be found in the middle of the mountain, ideal for picnics and outings.

The Haram Al Sharif covers an extensive area in the center of the Muslim quarter of the old city, and includes many historic buildings and religious sites. The most important one is the Dome of the Rock which can be seen from almost all parts of East Jerusalem with its golden Dome sitting high above the walls of the Old City. The Al Aqsa mosque is a few steps down from the Dome of the Rock, and it is the site from whence prophet Mohammad ascended to heaven according to the story in the Quran of the "Isra' and Mi'raj". In addition, there is the library of Al Aqsa mosque and the Islamic museum.

Access to the compound is free and the area is open every day except Friday from 8:00 am till sunset except during the five daily prayer times. Entry to non-Muslims is permitted only through four of the gates –Gate of the Bani Ghneim family (Al Ghawanmeh), Custodian's Gate (Al Nazir), Chain Gate (As Silisleh), and Moor's Gate (Al Magharbeh). The area is under the supervision of the Islamic Waqf (trustees) whose offices are just outside Bab al Hadid (Iron Gate). Dress should be modest, and shoes must be removed before entering the mosque. Eating, drinking and smoking are not allowed. During the major Muslim feasts, such as Eid al Adha which coincides with the 16th of March this year, it would be difficult for non-Muslims to enter the area which is filled with devout Muslims praying in the second Holiest site for Islam after Mecca.