Following your cheap Umrah package are you planning to explore Makkah? You have plenty of time to tour this sacred city because Umrah requires only a couple of hours to complete. While there are many sites to explore, the top 13 are that you really must see. A few of these locations were significant in the lives of Islam and our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Enjoy genuine tranquility at Masjid Al Haram.
Although travelers performing the Hajj and Umrah are aware of Masjid Al Haram, many are unaware of a few other aspects of the masjid. You are welcome to explore the mosque and take in the Ottoman Porticoes. Constructed in the Ottoman era, the arched porches have been meticulously conserved throughout time.
After that, proceed to one of Masjid Al-Haram’s main gates and take in its majesty. Out of the approximately 210 gates that have been constructed, the Gate of Ismael, Bab Adbullah, Gate of Bilal, Safa Gate, and King Fahad Gate are the five primary gateways. Masjid Al-Haram is always open, regardless of the day or time. One can achieve true serenity and free themselves from the constraints of the material world in this place.
The beauty of the Holy Kaaba
The most exquisite and treasured location in Makkah is the Holy Kaaba. The Holy Kaaba, also referred to as the “House of Allah,” is the center of Islam, with Muslims facing it five times a day for prayer. The Black Stone, commonly referred to as the “Hajre Aswad,” is also kept there. Approach it and put your hands on it to truly appreciate its beauty. It’s a totally new experience that you have never had before.
Visit the Clock Tower Museum
You can go toward the Abraj Al-Bait building to visit the Clock Tower Museum after touring Masjid Al-Haram and the sacred Kaaba. Tickets for the museum begin at SAR 150 per person, and it is open from 1 PM to 6 PM. The observation deck is the most striking feature of the museum. The magnificence will fascinate you as you take in a 360-degree panorama of the historic city and the magnificent Masjid Al-Haram.
Marvel in Jabal Al-Nour’s splendor
Often referred to as the “Mountain of Light,” this mountain has significant historical significance for Islam. The Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) had his first revelation on this peak. Although stairs have been built to reach the summit, people still find it difficult to ascend the hill because of its severe steepness, and it takes almost two hours to get there. If you want to take a peep inside the cave, arrive early because the hill gets busy in the evening.
Take a mindfulness session at Cave Hira
Cave Hira is a famous location inside Jabal An-Nour, 4km from the Holy Kaabah. Throughout the year, pilgrims who come to Makkah to do the Hajj and Umrah find it to be one of its greatest attractions. Reaching the cave may require up to 45 minutes of climbing, depending on the pilgrim’s physical condition. They can look around the cave and reflect on the life and times of our Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) and the way the cave was used by him for meditation.
Admire The Kaabah Kiswa Factory’s (Ghilaaf-e-Ka’aba)
The site of this facility, which is roughly 17 km west of Makkah’s downtown, produces the “Kiswa,” or black and gold cover for the Holy Kaabah. The design, dyeing, weaving, and embroidery of the Kiswa embellished with gold thread phrases from the Quran has been left to the skill of numerous Saudi artisans. These craftspeople labor diligently to change the cover of Kaabah every year and take great care when transforming 670 kilograms of silk into Kiswa. The exquisite calligraphy created by these skilled artists may be observed up close, and their work will astound you.
Be thankful at Jannat-al-Mu’alla
The Holy Kaabah is within a short distance from this old graveyard. Here are the majority of the relatives of the Prophet of Allah buried. You might take a few minutes to visit the cemetery and express your gratitude for everything that they have done to advance Islam.
Honor our Prophet (PBUH) at Maktaba Makkah-al-Mukarramah
The Makkah Al-Mukkarramah library also called the Maktaba Makkah Al-Mukkarramah, is situated close to the Masjid Al-Haram, the site of our Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) alleged birth. Another name for it is Bayt al-Mawlid.
Experience a profound bond at Mount Arafat
A major location for pilgrims making the Hajj is Mount Arafat. Known by most as “Jabal Arafat,” this location is where the revered Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) came and gave his last speech to the Muslims who were traveling with him on the Hajj. There isn’t much to see when you are here. After a little while, you can continue visiting other local holy sites.
Visit Jabal Thawr
The renowned cave where the Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) and his close friend Abu Bakr (RA) hid from their attackers for three days is located in this mountain range, 12 kilometers from Makkah. Allah (SWT) allowed a spider to construct a web at the cave’s entrance to keep their adversaries from finding them and preventing them from entering. Those who are physically fit enough can ascend the steep path and be rewarded with a bird’s-eye view of the stunning city.
Visit the well-known Masjid-e-Ayesha
This holy site, also called Masjid At-Tan’eem, is situated 7.5 km south of Makkah. It is regarded as a “Miqaat” place where Muslims who are performing the Umrah or Hajj enter their ihram. This is the nearest of all the Masjid Al-Haram’s “Miqats.” At this gathering place, guests can spend a short while in the masjid, pray two rakahs at Tahiyatul Masjid, explore the area, and discover the benefits of wearing an ihram.
Explore Mina City
Every pilgrim making the Umrah must pass by this location. This settlement, popularly known as the “City of tents,” is eight kilometers from Makkah in the Jamarat valley. During the month of Dhul-Hijah, pilgrims performing the Hajj reside here. Nothing noteworthy is visible in this location. You might just pray to Allah to return you here for the Hajj as you pass by this location.
See the wonder of Jamaraat Bridge
A massive pedestrian bridge that is crucial to the pilgrims who perform the Hajj. Pilgrims use this bridge as part of the Hajj rite to hurl stones at each of the three Jamarah pillars. There is a bridge to facilitate pilgrims’ movement during this ceremony. You may drive or take a bus through quickly. When you view the Jamaarat Bridge or the City of Mina, you are filled with a need to perform the Hajj.
Conclusion
You would feel satisfied, appreciative, and in awe of Allah Almighty for the favors showered upon you after visiting these sacred sites. Include these must-see locations on your schedule to make your Umrah journey rewarding and unforgettable. Visit the official website of a trusted travel company to reserve your cheap December Umrah packages right away if you’re prepared to experience the serene and lovely city of Makkah.
