One Day, One Story: How the Road to Jerusalem Was Breached!

A Gripping Heritage Journey Following the Battles that Shaped the Nation's Borders

During the War of Independence (1948), the city of Jerusalem was under a severe siege, and the fighting forces had to confront an impossible challenge: ensuring the passage of supplies and rescue to the besieged city through dangerous and battle-ridden transportation routes. This day trip is a journey through time, dedicated to the heroism, failures, and successes of the forces that fought—the Harel Brigade, the 7th Brigade, and Palmach forces—against the Jordanian Legion and irregular Arab forces.

During the journey, we will explore the outcomes of Operation Nachshon (April 1948), which aimed to open the road to Jerusalem, and the operational necessity that led to the breach of the “Burma Road”—the clandestine alternative route that allowed the siege to be broken and critical supplies to be delivered to the city.

Key Highlights of the Journey:

Sha’ar HaGai and the Burma Road: We will trace the path of the supply convoys and the stories of the determined battles fought by our forces, and understand the military background and importance of Operation Nachshon in opening the transportation arteries to the city. We will observe the improbable path of the “Burma Road”—the hidden lifeline that was hastily paved.
Latrun – The Forbidden Fortress: We will survey the strategic complex of the Latrun Fortress, which was controlled by the Jordanian Legion, and the bitter battles that aimed to liberate it and open the main road. We will understand why Latrun was called the “Key to Jerusalem” and why so many fell there.
Nebi Samuel and HaRadar (Mount Hadar): We will ascend to strategic observation points that controlled the fragmented Jerusalem area:
- Nebi Samuel (The “Nebi”) – A cardinal control point offering a wide view of the city and the roads leading to it.
- Mount HaRadar (Mount Hadar) – We will learn about the battles required to maintain the northern and western frontier of the city and the strategic importance of this mount.
A Local Delicacy Finale: We will conclude the day with wine tasting at the local winery, Moni Winery in the Sorek Valley, or with beer tasting at the Srigim Brewery.

Did you know what the Burma Road was?

It wasn't just a rugged dirt track through the mountains, but a lifeline born out of profound despair and incredible hope—a story that holds more than what the eye can see or the ear can hear. In 1948, besieged Jerusalem was dying of thirst and hunger. The only conventional route into the city, known as "Sha'ar HaGai" (Bab el-Wad), was blocked by the Jordanian Legion, and the city faced collapse. Young pioneers and weary, hungry fighters searched maps, desperate for a solution. "There must be another way," they whispered. And so, the Burma Road was born, named after the historic road that liberated China. Quietly and secretly, under incessant fire and in inhumane conditions, these pioneers began carving out a bypass route, parallel to the main axis. They worked with improvised tools, moving stones with bare hands, forging paths up steep slopes. Every grain of dirt and every rock moved was another brick in the wall of hope. They had no established infrastructure, no heavy engineering equipment, only a burning determination and an existential need. When the route was finally completed, it was narrow, dangerous, and barely passable even for rugged off-road vehicles. But it worked. The first convoys of food, water, and ammunition crawled along it in nerve-wracking slow motion, risking their lives every second, yet knowing they carried the very breath of life for Jerusalem. The Burma Road, with its fragments, its dusty tracks, and every vehicle that managed to pass, was not merely a supply line. It was a testament to the boundlessness of the human spirit, the ability of ordinary people to achieve the seemingly impossible, and an unforgettable symbol of the fighting and creative spirit that saved an entire city. It reminds us that even in the darkest moments, when all seems lost, the path to victory is sometimes paved with determination, sweat, and faith, step by step, along unforeseen routes.

Tentative Itinerary – A History Brought to Life:

The journey will proceed according to a flexible schedule adjusted to the group’s pace:

07:30 – Departure and the start of our historical journey.
08:30 – Stop for a light breakfast in nature (Canada Park / Neve Ilan / Mount Eitan).
09:30 – Extended tour of the Sha’ar HaGai area and the “Burma Road” route.
11:00 – Visit sites near the Latrun Fortress and review the key battles.
12:30 – Rich and satisfying lunch break (Focaccia Restaurant or Maccabis).
14:00 – Observation and historical review at Nebi Samuel.
15:30 – Tour of Mount HaRadar (Mount Hadar) – understanding military control.
17:00 – Wine tasting finale at Moni Winery or beer tasting at Srigim Brewery.
18:00 – Estimated end and return to the starting point.

Who is This Trip For?

This tour is designed for individuals who wish to deeply explore the heritage of the Land of Israel and the history of the establishment of the State. For families, groups of friends, employees, and teams – who want to experience a day full of values, heroism, strategy, and breathtaking views.

Call to Action: Come and Touch History!

Join us for a day where history comes to life. Secure your place on this journey to the moments of truth of the War of Independence.

For contact, itinerary customization, and reservations: