Palmach Cave, Training cave in Mishmar HaEmek, Israel
Palmach Cave is a natural underground chamber located at the edge of Kibbutz Mishmar HaEmek, surrounded by forest in the western Jezreel Valley. The site features multiple passages and rooms that visitors can explore with knowledgeable guides.
During the 1940s, the cave served as a secret training base for Palmach militia units preparing for military operations. It became a site where soldiers learned specialized skills and developed tactics that would shape early Israeli defense practices.
The cave site contributed to the development of the Israel Defense Forces ethical code, emphasizing principles of mission dedication and personnel protection.
Visitors should reserve their visit ahead of time to join guided tours through the cave and surrounding forest trails. Wearing sturdy shoes and bringing layers is recommended, as the underground terrain is uneven and cave temperatures stay cool year-round.
The cave is now used for physical activities including climbing courses and rope challenges that test visitor skills. These programs blend military history with contemporary adventure experiences in a way that visitors seldom encounter elsewhere.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
