Makkah & Madinah Ziyarat Guide
Visiting the Sacred Sites
Ziyarat — visiting the sacred and historical sites of Makkah and Madinah — is not a required part of Umrah, but it is a deeply enriching experience that connects pilgrims to the history of Islam and the life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
This guide covers the most important sites in both cities with images, descriptions, and approximate journey times from the Haram.
🕋 Ziyarat Places in Makkah
Masjid al-Haram
The Grand Mosque — the largest mosque in the world and home to the Holy Kaaba. Pilgrims perform Tawaf here. It houses the Hajar al-Aswad, Maqam Ibrahim, and the blessed Zamzam well.
Jabal al-Nour (Cave of Hira)
The Mountain of Light where Prophet Muhammad ﷺ received the first revelation of the Quran. A steep climb of approximately 1,200 steps leads to the small cave at the summit.
Jabal Thawr (Cave of Thawr)
Where Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and Abu Bakr (RA) took refuge during the migration to Madinah. Allah’s protection was shown when a spider spun a web over the cave entrance.
Masjid Aisha (Tan'eem)
The nearest Miqat point to Makkah. Pilgrims who wish to perform an additional Umrah enter the state of Ihram here. Named after Hazrat Aisha (RA) who entered Ihram from this location.
Maqam Ibrahim
A sacred stone bearing the footprints of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), located near the Kaaba. After completing Tawaf, pilgrims offer two Rakat of prayer near this station.
Jannat al-Mualla Cemetery
The historic cemetery of Makkah where several beloved relatives of the Prophet ﷺ are buried, including his first wife Hazrat Khadijah (RA).
Birthplace of the Prophet ﷺ
The site where Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was born, now converted into the Maktaba Makkah al-Mukarrama library. A historically significant landmark for all Muslims.
Mount Arafat (Jabal al-Rahmah)
The Mount of Mercy — the most important site of Hajj where the Prophet ﷺ delivered his final sermon. Many pilgrims visit during Umrah to reflect on its significance.
🕌 Ziyarat Places in Madinah
Masjid al-Nabawi
The Prophet’s Mosque — the second holiest mosque in Islam, built by the Prophet ﷺ himself. It houses the blessed Rawdah, described as a garden from the gardens of Paradise.
Masjid Quba
The first mosque ever built in Islam, founded by the Prophet ﷺ upon his arrival in Madinah. Offering two Rakat here equals the reward of performing Umrah.
Masjid al-Qiblatain
The Mosque of the Two Qiblahs — where revelation came to change the direction of prayer from Jerusalem to the Holy Kaaba in Makkah.
Mount Uhud & Martyrs
Site of the Battle of Uhud (625 CE). The graves of 70 companions including Hazrat Hamza (RA), uncle of the Prophet ﷺ, are located at the base of this mountain.
Jannat al-Baqi Cemetery
The historic cemetery adjacent to Masjid al-Nabawi where many companions, family members, and wives of the Prophet ﷺ are buried.
Masjid al-Fath (Seven Mosques)
A complex of historic mosques connected to the Battle of the Trench, where the Prophet ﷺ made a supplication that was answered by Allah.
Dates Market
Madinah is world-famous for its exceptional dates, particularly the Ajwa date praised greatly by the Prophet ﷺ. Dozens of varieties are available as gifts.
Bir al-Ghars (Well of Ghars)
One of the most revered historical wells in Madinah. The Prophet ﷺ used to drink from this well and instructed that his body be washed with its water.
Practical Tips for Ziyarat
📅 Book a Ziyarat Tour
Most hotels offer half-day and full-day guided Ziyarat tours. Book through your hotel or ask your Kiswah Tours representative on arrival.
⏰ Best Time to Visit
Early morning visits (before 9am) are cooler and less crowded. Avoid midday in summer when temperatures exceed 45°C.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You will walk on uneven terrain, particularly at Jabal al-Nour. Comfortable closed-toe shoes are essential for all Ziyarat visits.