Top Must-Visit Places to Visit in Makkah for Every Pilgrim
Makkah is a place that lives in the hearts of every Muslim. Isn’t it? Yes. However, the main focus is the Kaaba; the historical and spiritual treasures of Islam surround the city. Through this blog, let’s explore the most popular places to visit in Makkah.
Historical Islamic Landmarks in Makkah: You Shouldn’t Miss
As we know, the preaching of Islam was started by the Prophet (S.A.W.) from Makkah. Here you will find many historical Islamic sites related to him. Let's see the places where the Prophet (S.A.W.) left his memories in Makkah.
Jabal Al Nour
As we know, the Prophet (S.A.W.) loved to spend most of his time in Zikr of Allah (S.W.T.). He used to visit the cave of Hira. And every Muslim desires to visit this sacred mountain. I suggest that you visit and climb the Mountain of Nour.
The first revelation of the Quran, the first five verses of chapter 96, from Surah Alaq, began from this cave of Hira.
Jabal Al Thour
From Makkah, you have to take a journey of 8 kilometers in a south direction.
Allah (S.W.T.) has mentioned this cave in the holy Quran—Surah Tawbah, verse 40.
Muslims consider Jabal al Thour as a significant place because during the time of migration to Al-Madina, the Prophet Mohammed (S.A.W.) and his companion Hazrat Abu Baker Siddique had taken rest in this cave for three nights.
Masjid Aisha
Masjid Taneem, or Masjid Aisha, is the nearest Miqat point for the pilgrims of Makkah.
From Taneem, the beloved wife of the Prophet (S.A.W.), Aisha binte Abu Bakr, had once worn the Ihram for Umrah. Ref- Sahih al-Buqari 1518. Book-25; Hadith-06.
Today, many pilgrims who wish to perform Umrah one more time visit Masjid Aisha to don their Ihram for Umrah and make Niyat for Umrah.
Every Muslim dreams of visiting the religious sites in Makkah.
The Umrah pilgrims are eyewitnesses to these sacred sites of Haram, Hajar e Aswad, Maqam e Ibrahim, and the hills of Safa and Marwah. Along with these, some other places to visit in Makkah must include the sites of the Hajj pilgrimage.
Mount Arafat
This mountain is also known as ‘Jabal al Rahmah’ or ‘Mount of Mercy.’ It has got its name, as Allah (S.W.T.) has shown mercy on Adam (A.S.) and Hawwah (A.S.) by accepting their forgiveness.
You will find a white pillar mounted on the spot where they reunite on earth after being thrown from the heavens.
On the day of Arafat, the Prophet (S.A.W.) had delivered his last Khutbah to his companions and followers from Mount Arafat.
Muzdalifah
On the 9th of Zil Hijjah, pilgrims of Hajj perform the prayers of Dhur and Asar at one time at Arafat. Then they move to the open land of Muzdalifah.
After reaching there, they perform the combined prayers of Magrib and Isha. They spend the whole night under the open sky and collect pebbles to stone the devils at Jamarat and leave the place for Mina.
Mina and Jamarat
Pilgrims stay for three days in tents in Mina. From here, they move to Jamarat to throw stones at the three walls of devils.
Hidden Gems and Cultural Spots to Explore in Makkah
The Makkah Museum, the Clock Tower Museum, and the Al-Thawr Cultural Heritage Site are some of the hidden gems & cultural spots to explore in Makkah.
Makkah Museum: Al-Zaher Palace Museum has gained its fame as the Makkah Museum. This museum displays the history of Makkah and its archaeological collections of Islamic background. Tourists love to see the old manuscripts of the holy Quran and the names of Allah (S.W.T.) on the theater screen.
Clock Tower Museum: This museum is located in Makkah on the top four floors of the Abraj Al Bait clock tower in Mecca.
On the top floor: Here you can explore the architectural & foundational structure of this Royal Clock Tower.
Second Floor: Here you can see the exhibits of ancient times, measurement methods, and instruments of ancient timekeeping.
Third floor: On this floor, you can see the exhibits that help you to understand the importance of astronomy in Islam & daily life.
Fourth Floor: Here on this floor, you can explore the exhibits that show you the details of the wonders of space, planets, & cosmos.
Panoramic view from the balcony: A breathtaking panoramic view of the Grand Mosque is an awesome experience.
Al Thour Cultural District: It is a cultural & tourist project in Makkah around the cave of Thour. With modern technology and engaging museum displays, it exhibits the story of the Prophet's migration to Al-Madina.
Best Things to Do in Makkah Beyond Hajj and Umrah
Beyond Hajj and Umrah, you can explore this vast Mosque of Haram from every corner and watch the Kaaba from every angle. It will give you immense peace.
After the beautiful sights of the Kaaba, you can explore the markets around the city, which will help you understand the local Arabs. Here in these markets, you will find dates, oud, prayer beads, and other souvenirs. These are some of the best things to do in Makkah beyond Hajj and Umrah
Complete Travel Guide to Famous Attractions in Makkah
For a peaceful and successful trip to Makkah
Plan and prioritize your Umrah rituals first. Then you can allocate specific times for visits to other sites.
You can find, before sunrise, the best time to visit the historical sites like Jabal Al Nour and Jabal Al Thawr.
For transportation, you are advised to take either local buses, private taxis, or booking cabs. Your travel agent will also arrange a tour to other historical places.
Exploring the Surrounding Region: A Trip to Taif
This city is known as the "city of roses" and is entirely different from the hot climate of Makkah. In and around these regions, you can find the cultivation of fruits, flowers, and honey.
To reach here, you have to travel up to 100 km in the east direction. Your journey will be approximately two hours.
It has become one of the favorite destinations for visitors, local Saudis, and even royal Arab families during the hot summer.
Takeaway
While the holy rituals are the core of your journey, exploring profound places to visit in Makkah can deepen your connection to Islam. So, you can complete your experience and embrace the best things to do in Makkah beyond Hajj or Umrah, from cultural museums to the serene mountains where revelation began.
FAQs
How can I travel to the city of Taif?
By hiring a taxi or local bus, you can travel to this beautiful and cool place.
How can I climb 'Jabal al-Nour'?
Use comfy clothes & shoes. To save yourself from the hot sun, carry cold water. As Jabal Al-Nour is a steep & rocky mountain, you can climb it in nearly two hours.
