The Yardenit community is a community of believers from all over the world who support the Yardenit site, the Jordan River and the Sea of Galilee as well as many projects. Of hope, peace and love in the spirit of Jesus’ words. The Yardenit community gives back to its members and gives a variety of activities, benefits and the opportunity to leave your mark on the Yardenit site in the form of the Stone of Life.
The Jordan River is called “Yarden” in Hebrew, and “Yardenit” means “little Jordan River”. The nearby Kibbutz Kinneret, which operates the site, is named after the Sea of Galilee, or “Kinneret” in Hebrew. The origin of the name of the Kinneret is attributed to the shape of the sea, which resembles a violin – “Kinor” in Hebrew.
Every year over half a million visitors come to Yardenit to be baptized, rededicate their baptismal vows, or to be part of the world-wide Christian community bearing witness to their fellow Christians, who at this place have followed their Savior through the waters of baptism. This sacred place is a Christian sacrament marked by a ritual use of water immersion admitting the recipient to the Christian community.
The Yardenit baptism site is located at the entrance to Kibbutz Kinneret, where the Jordan River flows from the Sea of Galilee. This pristine area is near other holy places like Capernaum, Tabgha, Bethsaida, Kursi and the Mount of Beatitudes. This location reflects the perfect combination of Christian heritage and stunning landscapes of the Holy Land.
Click here for location map and transport directions.
Baptisms are only allowed while wearing the special white robes, which can be rented or purchased on site. Swim suits or other clothing may be worn under the robe. To maintain the spiritual atmosphere and support the conduct of religious ceremonies on site, entry to the water in swim suits or in the nude is strictly forbidden.
Entry to the site is free and there is no charge for conducting baptismal ceremonies. To sustain a respectable and spiritual atmosphere, we require visitors wear special white robes during their baptism. These may be rented or purchased on site. To cover operating costs, Yardenit charges nominal fees for the use of some of its facilities.
No. There is no resident priest at Yardenit but a list of local clergy, complete with contact information, can be provided upon request. Please contact us for and we will be happy to provide you with the list.
Small parties of up to 40 people can visit Yardenit without coordinating in advance. We request larger groups to notify us in advance so we can prepare for you and other visitors the best possible service.
The Yardenit gift shop, on the bank of the River Jordan, holds a wide range of local products . Some of these items are also available online at the Yardenit web-store. If you would like to purchase an item that you have seen at the store during your visit but can not find it online, please feel free to contact us and we’ll be happy to check on its availability.
Light refreshments are available at the onsite kiosk, located in the baptismal pool area. A full lunch buffet is served daily (Sunday – Friday) at the newly renovated biblically-themed Manna restaurant.
The nearest hotel is Ohalo Manor Hotel, located in a walking distance from Yardenit, right at Kibbutz Kinneret. Also in walking distance, you can find more lodging options can be found at The Jordan Valley Regional Council website.
The Yardenit baptismal site was built in 1981 by Kibbutz Kinneret with the help and blessing of the Ministry of Tourism. The site was established to provide a safe place for pilgrims to be baptized on the Jordan River. Kibbutz Kinneret was founded in 1913 by Eastern European immigrants, making it the second oldest Kibbutz in Israel.
