Carrying out Umrah is a profoundly religious experience for Muslims globally. Although the central theme is worship at Masjid al-Haram, Makkah has numerous other religious and historical sites that are of significant importance in Islam. If you're organizing your trip through Umrah packages, visiting these holy places can infuse meaning and contemplation into your pilgrimage.
Whether you are taking a luxurious Umrah tour or have chosen inexpensive Umrah packages, these five places in Makkah must be visited on your spiritual journey. A number of them are also included in guided tours as part of Hajj packages and Umrah packages provided by reliable travel operators.
1. Masjid al-Haram (The Grand Mosque)
No Makkah trip is complete without time spent in Masjid al-Haram, the most sacred place in Islam. This is where the Kaaba stands — the direction (Qibla) in which Muslims all over the globe pray.
The mosque can hold millions of pilgrims, particularly during the Hajj pilgrimage and Ramadan.
Tawaf (going around the Kaaba) and Sa'i (running between Safa and Marwa hills) are done here.
Pilgrims who book Umrah packages usually reside close to the Grand Mosque for convenience, particularly during prayer times.
Even budget Umrah packages usually provide accommodations within walking distance of the Haram, so you never have to miss a moment of this holy experience.
2. Jabal al-Noor (Mountain of Light)
Jabal al-Noor is amongst the most sacred places in Makkah. It contains the Cave of Hira where the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was given the initial revelation of the Qur'an.
The mountain is roughly 4 kilometers from Masjid al-Haram.
It is not a requirement to climb the mountain, but pilgrims do so in great numbers for contemplation and prayer.
Most Hajj packages and Umrah packages offer guided tours to Jabal al-Noor.
It's advisable to go early in the morning or late afternoon, particularly for those in budget Umrah packages without personal transport.
3. Jabal Thawr (Mount Thawr)
The other holy mountain is Jabal Thawr, where Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and Abu Bakr (RA) took refuge in a cave while migrating to Madinah.
The location demonstrates the Prophet ﷺ's trust and perseverance in adverse situations.
The summit cave takes 1.5 to 2 hours of walking time.
Spiritual pilgrims, particularly those opting for tailor-made Umrah packages, tend to give prominence to this ascent.
Jabal Thawr receives fewer visitors than other attractions and is best suited for contemplation. If you are on a budget Umrah package, opt for a group tour to easily gain access to this ancient monument.
⛲ 4. Zamzam Well
Situated on the premises of Masjid al-Haram, Zamzam Well is said to be a miraculous source of water that Allah gifted to Hajar (RA) and her son, Prophet Isma'il (AS).
Muslim pilgrims are urged to drink Zamzam water and even bring it home.
It is free and provided in dispensers throughout the mosque.
Some packages for Umrah even include packed Zamzam water as part of the travel package.
For individuals booking Hajj pilgrimage or low-cost Umrah packages, returning with Zamzam is usually a highlight of the trip.
5. Masjid al-Jinn
Masjid al-Jinn is among the most ancient mosques of Makkah and has a special history behind it — it's said to be where a band of jinn heard the recitation of the Qur'an by the Prophet and became Muslim.
Situated close to the Jannat al-Mu'alla cemetery, near Masjid al-Haram.
Popular for its architecture and religious significance.
It is usually frequented by pilgrims signed up in informative excursions offered under Umrah packages or Hajj pilgrimage tours.
Even when traveling on low-budget Umrah packages, a stroll or low-cost taxi ride will see you arrive at this intriguing destination.
How These Sites Enrich Your Umrah Experience
Many pilgrims choose Umrah packages that include spiritual sightseeing to enrich their journey. These sacred places offer context, deepen your understanding of the Prophet’s life, and create memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re investing in high-end Hajj packages or managing with cheap Umrah packages, including these destinations can transform your pilgrimage from just ritual into a deeply moving spiritual journey.
FAQs
1. Are these sites part of all Umrah packages?
Not necessarily. Optional Ziyarat (visit to sites) is included in many Umrah packages. Ask your travel agent if Jabal al-Noor, Jabal Thawr, and other site visits are part of your package.
2. Can I go there if I get an inexpensive Umrah package?
Yes, you can. Although low-cost Umrah packages might not provide private transport, you can still travel to most places on public transport, taxis, or even participate in a group tour that your agency organizes.
3. Are these sites open year-round?
Most of these sites, such as Jabal al-Noor, Jabal Thawr, and Masjid al-Jinn, are open year-round, except for peak traffic times of the Hajj pilgrimage, when security and crowd control measures might restrict access.
4. Is Zamzam water available to all pilgrims?
Yes, Zamzam water is available free of charge within Masjid al-Haram. Some Umrah packages and Hajj packages also offer small bottled Zamzam for pilgrims to bring home.
5. Do I require a guide to go to these locations?
A guide is not necessary, but it is useful for historical background. Most Hajj packages and Umrah packages include guided tours. If you are on a budget Umrah package, group tours are normally available at a reasonable price.
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