Going Up To The Har!

We talk a lot about going up to Har HaBayis. But what does actually going up entail?

Today, I walk you through the process as I share this video from a recent trip up to the Har! I hope this post helps you feel more confident and inspired to go up yourself!

Step 1: Preparing at the Mikvah

The journey starts early in the morning, at the mikvah (see list of Mikvaot in your area here).

Not every mikvah is suitable. Many men’s mikvaot are just for Tevilas Ezra. For Har HaBayis, we need a mikvah de’oraisa. This type of mikvah is either one that is used for keilim or is labeled mikveh taharah. Check with the mikvah gabbai to be sure.

Before immersion, do a full chafifah — brush teeth, cut nails, comb hair, etc.

Check out the full list here.

Step 2: Arrival in Yerushalayim

We arrived at the Kotel entrance. Kotel security is straight ahead, and to the right is the entrance to Har HaBayis. That’s where you'll go through a second security checkpoint.

Step 3: Passing Through Security

Just past security, you’ll see lockers, since halacha forbids wearing leather shoes on Har HaBayis.

Most people switch to canvas or rubber shoes here.

Step 4: The Waiting Area

There’s a shaded gazebo area with water, a fridge, and even a small model of the Beis HaMikdash — a quiet spot to pause before going up.

Step 5: Walking Up the Ramp

Then it’s time to walk up to the Har. The way up is through the ramp near the Kotel Plaza. On the way up, people are singing, praying, and excited.

The feeling is powerful.

Step 6: On Har HaBayis

Baruch Hashem, the day I went there was a big group. We walked carefully in the permitted areas, far from the Kodesh HaKodeshim.

Step 7: Notable Sites

On the right is the Al Aqsa Mosque, where Muslims pray facing Mecca, with their backs to the Mikdash.

The central Golden Dome, known as Haram al-Sharif, isn’t a major Islamic holy site for most Muslims. But under it lies the Even HaShesiyah, believed to be the spot of the Kodesh HaKodeshim, the holiest place in the Beis HaMikdash.

This is where we long to rebuild Bayis Shlishi!

Step 8: Exiting the Har

After walking through the Har, we exited near the police station, where the group gathered again, singing and dancing, full of joy and purpose.

Final Thoughts

Prepare well, ask your rabbanim about the halachos, and go up with awe, care, and joy.

May we come together to build the Beis HaMikdash b’karov!