Are you looking to discover the city of Makkah after your Umrah pilgrimage? As Umrah takes some hours to complete, you’ve got enough time to find this holy metropolis. Although there are numerous locations, we’ve compiled thirteen must-go-to locations that you should not miss.
Some of those locations held a crucial role in the existence of our Prophet Muhammed (Peace be upon him) and Islam. Visiting those holy websites can result in a deeper engagement with Islam’s records and permit us to expand a fuller appreciation of people who lived and struggled before us.
1. Experience true peace in Masjid Al Haram
Even though Umrah and Hajj pilgrims are familiar with Masjid Al Haram, there are a few other elements inside the masjid that many don’t notice. You can wander around the mosque to admire the Ottoman Porticoes. The arched porches were built during the Ottoman era and have been preserved intricately ever since.
Next, stroll toward one of Masjid Al-Haram’s foremost gates and recognize its grandeur. Around 210 gates were built, but five are the foremost gateways, notably the Gate of Ismael, Gate of Bilal, Bab Adbullah, Safa Gate, and King Fahad Gate.
You can usually go to Masjid Al-Haram at any time or date. This is an area where people can escape the shackles of their worldly lifestyles and discover proper peace, contentment, and tranquility.
2. Marvel at the beauty of the Holy Kaaba
The Holy Kaaba is the most stunning and respected web page in Makkah. Known as the ‘House of Allah’, the Holy Kaaba is the principal focal factor in Islam wherein Muslims from around the arena face toward it to hope five instances a day. It also houses the Black Stone, called the ‘Hajre Aswad.’
The excellent way to respect its splendor is to get nearer and touch it. The joy is wholesome, not like anything you’ve felt before. Avoid journeying to the Kaabah after prayer instances, as there can be a variety of jostling and pushing around.
3. Get a bird’s eye view of Makkah at the Clock Tower Museum
After exploring Masjid Al-Haram and the holy Kaaba, you can walk towards the Abraj Al-Bait complex to visit the Clock Tower Museum. It’s spread over four floors, lit with information about the universe, Islam, and its history. The museum is open from 1 pm to 6 pm, and tickets start at SAR 150 per person. But the most impressive part of the museum is its viewing deck. You will get a 360-degree view of the ancient city and the glorious Masjid Al-Haram and be mesmerized by the beauty.
4. Appreciate the craftsmanship at the Kaaba Kiswa Factory (Ghilaf-e-Kaaba)
Located about 17 km west of central Makkah, this factory manufactures the Holy Kaaba’s black and gold cover, known as the ‘Kiswa.’ Many Saudi artisans have been employed to design, dye, weave, and embroider the Kiswa, which is adorned with verses from the Quran in gold thread.
These artisans take great care in transforming 670kg of silk into Kiswa and work hard towards changing the Kaabah’s covering once a year. You can get up close to watch these artisans in action and be amazed by the immaculate handwork of their calligraphy. The factory is open on Saturdays, Mondays, and Wednesdays from 9 am to noon. However, you can check with a local guide if you require prior permission to enter.
5. Feel grateful at Jannat-al-Mu’alla
This historic cemetery is just a few minutes from the Holy Kaaba. Most of our beloved Prophet’s relatives are buried here. You can spend a few minutes at the cemetery and feel grateful for their immense contribution to Islam and its growth.
6. Remember our Prophet (Peace be upon him) at Maktaba Makkah-al-Mukarramah
Maktaba Makkah Al-Mukkarramah, additionally known as Makkah Al-Mukkarramah library, is positioned close to the Masjid Al-Haram, where our Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) is thought to have been born. It is likewise known as Bayt al-Mawlid.
7. Bask in the glory of Jabal Al-Nour
Popularly called the ‘Mountain of Light,’ this mountain has profound significance in Islamic history. It is the mountain on which our Prophet (Peace be upon him) acquired his first revelation.
Stairs were installed to attain the pinnacle of the hill; however, because of its severe steepness, it is pretty tough for humans to climb the hill, and it takes almost hours to attain the pinnacle. The mountain gets crowded throughout the cooler hours of the day, so get there early if you plan to peek into the cave.
8. Experience mindfulness in Cave Hira
Located 4km from the Holy Kaaba, Cave Hira is an iconic website in the interior of Jabal An-Nour. It is one of the most famous sights for pilgrims who tour Makkah to carry out the Hajj and Umrah by travel agency during the year.
Depending on the pilgrim’s bodily power and ability, the climb can take forty-five minutes to reach the cave. They can discover the cave and contemplate the existence of our Prophet (Peace be upon him) and the way he contemplated in the cave. Also, traffic can revel in the beautiful view of the city.
9. Feel a deep connection at Mount Arafat
Mount Arafat is a tremendous website online for Hajj pilgrims. Popularly acknowledged as ‘Jabal Arafat,’ it’s miles from the region wherein the cherished Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) stood and introduced his ultimate sermon to his partners and the Muslims accompanying him on Hajj. While you visit here, there is nothing much to see. You can spend a few minutes exploring other nearby holy places.
10. Go back in history at Jabal Thawr
Located 12 km from Makkah, this mountain range houses the famed cave where our beloved Prophet (Peace be upon him) and his companion Abu Bakr (RA) hid inside for 3 days from their enemies.
To prevent their enemies from gaining access to the cave, Allah (SWT) had a spider spin a web at its entrance to prevent their enemies from discovering them. Travelers with good physical strength can make the steep climb and reward themselves with a bird’s eye view of the beautiful city.
11. Explore the famed Masjid-e-Ayesha
Also known as Masjid Al-Taneem, this holy location is 7.5km south of Makkah. It is considered a ‘Miqaat’ factor wherein Muslim pilgrims enter Ihram for Umrah or Hajj. Among all the ‘Miqats’ of Masjid Al-Haram, it is the closest.
At this meeting point, visitors can spend a few minutes at the masjid, pray two rakats of Tahiyatul Masjid, explore, and learn the aspects of wearing Ihram.
12. Admire the City of Mina
Every Umrah pilgrim needs to pass by this place. Located 8 km from Makkah in the Jamarat valley, this city is called the ‘City of tents’ and is home to Hajj pilgrims during Dhul-Hijjah. There is nothing prominent to see here. You can pass by this place supplicating to Allah to bring you back here for Hajj.
13. Be amazed at the Jamarat Bridge
An enormous pedestrian bridge that performs an essential position for the Hajj pilgrims. During Hajj, pilgrims use this bridge to throw stones on the 3 Jamarat pillars as a part of the ritual. This bridge was built with the aid of the Saudi authorities to ease the passage of pilgrims throughout this ritual. You could make a short bypass to your vehicle or bus. You long to carry out Hajj while seeing the City of Mina or the Jamarat Bridge.
Visiting those holy locations will leave you content, grateful, and admiring of the benefits bestowed upon you by Allah Almighty. Make your Umrah package Bradford pleasant with Haleema Limited and remarkable by including those must-see locations on your itinerary.
