Taj Mahal is located 90 minutes by road from Jerusalem or 30 minutes from the nearest town of Arad. Bus and Taxi services make for easy access to any part of Israel. In addition to the hotel bathing facilities along the beach there are also free public beaches with lifeguards and sweet water showers available to all. Car rental companies, travel agents and tour offices offer services to cater for those wishing to explore the many attractions of the surrounding area, both with and without local guides.
Taj Mahal & Ein Bokek is now a modern oasis and panacea for health seekers and tourists alike, and lies in stark contrast to the barren, rugged and genesis landscape of the Judean Desert Cliffs surrounding the area. Notwithstanding, it has been visited by humans since their hunter-gatherer days many thousands of years ago throughout history to the present day. In biblical times the area supplied salt to the world from the huge deposit known as Mount Sodom just south of Ein Bokek. Because of the great value of salt as a meat preserver, it was widely desirable. Roman fortresses were erected and manned to protect the caravansaries transporting these shipments, one of which was situated at Ein Bokek. These archaeological remains and those of a nearby perfume and medicine factory which was also in operation at that time, open a door into another era.
The spring that gives the area its name is situated in the dry river bed of Nahal or Wadi Bokek opposite the hotel area. Within a few minutes one is out of sight of modern civilization and into a canyon-like gorge of typical desert flora and fauna, with small pools fed by the spring. One can ascend the path up to the cliffs for a breathtaking view overlooking the Dead Sea and hotel complex, and is a favorite hike for early risers to see the sunrise before breakfast.
There are many attractions and splendid sights in and around the area, and some of these are listed below. In addition, activities like Jeep Tours, Camel Rides, Mountain Biking, Rappelling, Hiking, Desert Barbecues or Bedouin Feasts can also be arranged and combined with your visit.
