RAMALLAH, Thursday, October 10, 2019 (WAFA) – The City of Ramallah signed an agreement today to join the cultural hiking route known as Masar Ibrahim al-Khalil, attended by some 45,000 tourists who want to walk through multiple locations in Palestine, according to press release by the Ramallah municipality.

Ramallah Mayor Mousa Hadid signed the agreement with the director of Masar Ibrahim al-Khalil, George  Rishmawi, which would allow linking the eastern region of Ramallah governorate with the national route. This will promote eco-tourism in the region in general and in Ramallah in particular, said the press release.

This route will extend from the village of Kufr Malik to Ramallah, passing through 12 villages, which will enhance tourism in this area.

It was also agreed to link Ramallah to the route north of Jerusalem, which passes through six villages in the north of Jerusalem, called Al-Quds Route.

Masar Ibrahim Al Khalil is a non-profit community tourism initiative that aims to identify and develop Masar Ibrahim in and around the various Palestinian areas.

Masar Ibrahim al-Khalil is a long distance cultural hiking route in Palestine. The trail is 330 km long and extends from the village of Rummana, northwest of Jenin in the north of the West Bank, to Beit Mirsim, southwest of Al-Haram al-Ibrahimi (Ibrahimi Mosque) in Hebron in the south of the West Bank. The trail passes through more than 50 cities and villages, according to the Masar Ibrahim website.

“The Masar Ibrahim is more than just a hiking trail. It is a means of meeting and making connections with local Palestinians and hikers from all over the world. You can explore Bedouin villages and experience the legendary Palestinian hospitality, which is one of Palestine’s most fundamental traditions. The Masar Ibrahim does not only invite hikers to experience nature but also to change their perspectives by recognizing shared common values and creating friendships along the way,” it said.

M.K.