Top Things to Do in Makkah during Umrah

Mar 20, 2024

Discovering Makkah Beyond Umrah: Top Experiences Await

Key Takeaways:

Spiritual Epicenter: Makkah offers profound spiritual experiences beyond Umrah.
Diverse Attractions: From historical sites to natural wonders, Makkah boasts a range of captivating experiences.
Cultural Immersion: Explore local cuisine, shopping, and traditions for a holistic journey.

Makkah (or Mecca) is the holiest city in Islam. It is a beautiful city of profound spiritual significance for millions of Muslims worldwide, beckoning millions of devoted pilgrims from around the globe to embark on a spiritual journey known as Umrah. Although non-obligatory, this sacred pilgrimage is a deeply transformative experience, a ritual that holds immense importance in their faith. While Umrah itself is a spiritual experience like no other, the holy city of Makkah offers a wealth of other attractions and activities for visitors and pilgrims to explore.

The following article helps you delve into the myriad of captivating experiences and attractions that await pilgrims in the holy Makkah city, showcasing the top 10 things to do during or after their Umrah pilgrimage.

What to Do After Umrah in Makkah

Masjid Al Haram

Your journey in the holy Makkah city will undoubtedly begin and end at the magnificent Masjid Al Haram. This stunning and sacred mosque, with its striking architecture and capacity to accommodate millions of worshippers, is the holiest site in Islam. The Kaaba, located within the mosque, is the uncontested focal point of the blessed Umrah pilgrimage. Devotees from around the world gather here to perform Tawaf (circumambulation) and engage in ardent prayers. Visit and take time to absorb the spiritual ambience, and if you're fortunate enough, you may even witness the Kiswah (the cloth that covers the Kaaba) being changed.

Hira Cave

A short drive away from Masjid Al Haram is the majestic Hira Cave, a place of immense historical significance in Islamic tradition. It was here that the blessed Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) received the first revelations from the Almighty. The renowned cave offers an unmatched tranquil environment for reflection and prayer. However, note that climbing up to the cave may require a bit of effort, but the breathtaking view of the holy city of Makkah from the summit is worth it.

Jabal Al-Noor

Jabal Al-Noor, also known as the "Mountain of Light," is another critically significant historical site in the blessed Makkah region. It is famous for the renowned Cave of Hira, but it is also the location of the blessed Prophet Muhammad's (peace be upon him) initial retreat for meditation and prayer. The climb up Jabal Al-Noor is a spiritual journey in itself, and reaching the summit, where the cave is located, is a memorable experience. The cave is small and simple, allowing you to connect with the history and spirituality of the place without any interruption.

Mount Arafat

Mount Arafat plays a pivotal role during the Hajj pilgrimage, but it also holds significance during the lesser but equally crucial pilgrimage of Umrah. While it's not obligatory to visit Mount Arafat during Umrah, many pilgrims choose to do so as an ardent symbol of devotion. This mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surroundings and a sense of serenity that makes it an ideal spot for reflection and undisturbed prayer. Even if you’re not on a holy Umrah journey to the region, consider visiting Mount Arafat to experience the peace it offers.

Mina

Mina is a significant pilgrimage site located just a few kilometres from the holy Makkah city. During the Hajj season, pilgrims stay in Mina for several days as part of their pilgrimage rituals. While it may not be as crowded during your Umrah pilgrimage, a visit to Mina can provide you with a glimpse into the life of a Hajj pilgrim. During your visit, you can also explore the Jamarat, the three stone pillars where pilgrims symbolically throw stones during the sacred Hajj pilgrimage.

Al Wahba Crater

For those looking to explore the natural beauty of the holy region of Makkah, a visit to the Al Wahba Crater is a must. Located approximately 250 kilometres from the blessed Makkah city, this massive volcanic crater is a geological wonder. It is something you simply must see first-hand to believe! The journey to Al Wahba Crater may require a day trip, but the surreal landscape and serene atmosphere along the way and at the location make it a uniquely peaceful experience. It's a great way to balance the spiritual aspects of your sacred Umrah journey with an unmistakable touch of nature.

Makkah Mall

If you're interested in shopping and want to bring back souvenirs or gifts for your loved ones post your Umrah journey, the famous Makkah Mall is the place to go. It's a modern shopping centre in the very heart of the holy Makkah, offering a wide range of exciting products, including traditional Islamic clothing, perfumes, and one-of-a-kind accessories. The famous mall also features international brands and a variety of fantastic dining options, making it a convenient stop for both shopping and dining.

Relish Local Delicacies

Exploring the local cuisine is an integral part of any travel experience, and the blessed city of Makkah has a remarkably diverse range of culinary delights to offer. It holds special surprises for foodies traversing the region. From savoury dishes like Mandi and Kabsa to sweet treats like Baklava and Qatayef, you'll find a variety of zingy flavours to tantalise your taste buds. Don't forget to try the famous Makkah dates and Zamzam water, which are readily available throughout the city!

Buy Prayer Essentials

Before leaving Makkah, it's an excellent idea to purchase prayer essentials and souvenirs, as you simply wouldn’t get the same items elsewhere. You can find a wide array of exceptional Islamic books, prayer rugs, prayer beads (misbaha), and perfumes in local shops and markets in the region. These items serve as meaningful reminders of your sacred Umrah journey and can also be cherished gifts for family and friends back home.

Summing Up

The holy city of Makkah is more than just a destination for the blessed Umrah pilgrimage. It is a city filled with history, spirituality, and scenic natural beauty. While the spiritual aspects of your journey of faith will always be at the forefront, taking the time to explore the attractions and experiences listed above can enrich your holy Umrah pilgrimage and provide you with a deeper connection to the culture and heritage of Islam.

So, whether you're visiting the sacred Masjid Al Haram or exploring the serene landscapes of Al Wahba Crater, the holy Makkah city offers a wealth of incredible opportunities for reflection, prayer, and cultural immersion to soak in during your trip.

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