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Visiting with the right intention
The purpose of ziyarat is to learn, reflect and remember. Scholars remind pilgrims that these sites are visited for their history and lessons, and that acts such as touching walls or rocks to seek blessing, or performing rituals not taught in the Sunnah, should be avoided. Visit with humility, follow local guidance and keep your focus on your worship.
Ziyarat in Makkah
Jabal al-Nour and Cave Hira
The Mountain of Light, north-east of the Haram, holds the Cave of Hira, where the Prophet (peace be upon him) used to retreat for reflection and where the first verses of the Qur’an were revealed. The climb is steep and takes time, so many pilgrims view the mountain from below.
Jabal Thawr
South of Makkah, Mount Thawr holds the cave where the Prophet (peace be upon him) and Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) sheltered for three nights during the Hijrah to Madinah, a moment recalled in the Qur’an.
Mina
The valley of tents where pilgrims stay during Hajj and where the Jamarat, the pillars stoned during Hajj, are located. Outside Hajj season it is quiet, giving a sense of the scale of the pilgrimage.
Muzdalifah
The open plain between Mina and Arafat where Hajj pilgrims spend the night under the sky and collect pebbles for the Jamarat.
Arafat and Jabal al-Rahmah
The plain of Arafat is where pilgrims stand in supplication on the most important day of Hajj, and where the Prophet (peace be upon him) delivered his Farewell Sermon. Jabal al-Rahmah, the Mount of Mercy, rises from the plain.
Masjid Aisha (Taneem)
Located at Taneem, the closest point outside the sacred boundary, this is where Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) entered Ihram for Umrah. Pilgrims already in Makkah who wish to perform another Umrah often enter Ihram here. Scholars differ on repeating Umrah during one trip, so seek guidance.
Jannat al-Mu’alla
The historic cemetery of Makkah, where Khadijah (may Allah be pleased with her), the first wife of the Prophet (peace be upon him), and many members of his family are buried. Visitors pass by respectfully and make du’a for the deceased.
Ziyarat in Madinah
Masjid Quba
The first mosque built in Islam, founded by the Prophet (peace be upon him) on his arrival near Madinah. He taught that whoever purifies themselves at home and then prays in Masjid Quba receives a reward like that of an Umrah, so many pilgrims make wudu before setting off.
Masjid al-Qiblatain
The Mosque of the Two Qiblahs, where the revelation came to change the direction of prayer from Jerusalem to the Kaaba in Makkah.
Mount Uhud and the martyrs
The site of the Battle of Uhud. The martyrs of Uhud, including the Prophet’s uncle Hamzah (may Allah be pleased with him), are buried near the foot of the mountain, overlooked by the small Archers’ Hill. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said of Uhud that it is a mountain that loves us and we love it.
Jannat al-Baqi
The main cemetery of Madinah, beside Masjid an-Nabawi, where many of the Prophet’s family and companions are buried. Visiting hours are limited and access for women is usually restricted, so check on arrival.
The Seven Mosques area
A group of small mosques near the site of the Battle of the Trench (al-Khandaq), where the Muslims dug a trench to defend Madinah. Some of the original mosques have been replaced by a larger mosque, but the area remains a meaningful reminder of that period.
Visiting Masjid an-Nabawi and the Rawdah
Your time in Madinah centres on Masjid an-Nabawi, the Prophet’s Mosque. Many pilgrims hope to pray in the Rawdah, the area described as one of the gardens of Paradise. Access is managed by time slots booked through the Nusuk app, and the rules for booking can change, so arrange your permit as soon as you can. Greeting the Prophet (peace be upon him) and his two companions, Abu Bakr and Umar (may Allah be pleased with them), is a cherished moment for every visitor.
Practical tips for ziyarat
- Dress modestly and carry water, sun protection and comfortable shoes.
- Bring some small change for refreshments.
- Mornings are cooler and usually quieter for ziyarat tours.
- Listen to your guide and keep the group together, especially with children and elderly relatives.
- Keep visits to cemeteries quiet and respectful.
Plan your Umrah with Lumarah
Makkah Ziyarat (£150) and Madinah Ziyarat (£150) are available as optional extras with any Lumarah Umrah package; the ziyarat agenda, including dates, times and locations, is confirmed with you. Our packages include return flights, hotels in Makkah and Madinah with breakfast, and the Saudi e-visa.
Message our UK team on WhatsApp at +44 7950 739581 or email lumarahtravelagency@gmail.com. Tell us your dates, departure airport and who is travelling, and we will send you a tailored Umrah quote in writing. Nothing is paid on our website: once you are happy with the quote, you pay by UK bank transfer and we confirm everything in writing.
Frequently asked questions
Are ziyarat part of Umrah?
No. Ziyarat are visits to historic places and are not among the rites of Umrah, but they are a valuable way to learn about the Seerah and reflect.
Can I add ziyarat to a Lumarah Umrah package?
Yes. Ziyarat are optional extras: Makkah Ziyarat costs £150 and Madinah Ziyarat costs £150. The agenda, including dates, times and locations, is confirmed with you. Our packages themselves include flights, hotels with breakfast and the Saudi e-visa.
Can women visit Jannat al-Baqi?
Access to Jannat al-Baqi for women is usually restricted, and visiting hours for men are limited. Arrangements can change, so check locally when you arrive in Madinah.
What is the reward for praying in Masjid Quba?
The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught that whoever purifies themselves at home and then prays in Masjid Quba receives a reward like that of an Umrah.
Planning your Umrah? See our Umrah packages or message us for a tailored quote.