From Mountains to Mosques: Natural and Sacred Sites Around Makkah and Madinah
No doubt, Makkah and Madinah are known for their towering minarets, expansive mosques, and pilgrimage sites. However, there is much more to these cities than just their buildings, which hold prominent spiritual and religious significance. You will be surprised to learn about the numerous natural and sacred sites around Makkah and Madinah that are deeply associated with Islamic history and possess unmatched spiritual significance.
If you want to make the most of your time while you are on the pilgrimage, we are here to tell you everything you need to know about the sacred sites around the holy cities. Once you have booked an Umrah package from Chicago, you can start learning about the natural sites and the mosques around Makkah and Madinah that you can explore in your free time. This makes your Umrah journey much more immersive, as you have the opportunity to visit many historical gems.
5 Natural and Sacred Sites Around Makkah and Madinah
Jabal Al-Nour, Makkah
It is impossible to write Islamic history without mentioning Jabal Al-Nour. This highlights the significance of this mountain’s Islamic history as it is the site of Cave Hira. This cave is the place where the first few verses of the Holy Quran were revealed to our beloved Prophet (SAW). This was the place where Muhammad (SAW) was given the responsibility to spread the message of the Almighty.
While you climb the rocky path to arrive at this cave, you will be taken back in time. You will feel like you are following the footsteps of the Prophet (SAW), who climbed this mountain to meditate and ponder upon the existence of the Creator. Try to climb this mountain at dawn to see the glorious sun rise over the sacred city of Makkah. Can anything be more surreal than this?
Jabal Thawr, Makkah
Another mountain near Makkah associated with a prominent historical event in Islam is Jabal Thawr. There is a cave in this mountain where the Prophet (SAW) and one of his closest companions, Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA), hid while migrating from Makkah to Madinah. As the Quraysh of Makkah were finding the Prophet (SAW), he hid in this cave and was miraculously saved by Allah Almighty.
This story of a miracle is often told to Muslim children and is found in many Islamic children’s books. Being able to see the site of this famous historical event is an enlightening experience that every Muslim would want to experience. So, while you are on the quest to explore sacred sites around Makkah, make sure not to miss this one out.
Mount Arafat, Makkah
Arafat is one of the sites of the Hajj pilgrimage. Even though you don’t have to visit this mountain during your Umrah, you must see it if you are exploring natural sacred sites around the city. Mount Arafat has a prominent position in Islamic history. It is the place of many historical events and is also believed to be the site where humanity will gather on the day of judgement.
Staying at this mountain and indulging in supplication is one of the most rewarding rituals of the obligatory pilgrimage. Pilgrims arrive at this mountain on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, which is called the Day of Arafat. This day is blessed, and all Muslims are advised to perform dhikr and fast on this day. It highlights the religious significance of this site and the importance of supplicating here during the Hajj. If you have booked a Hajj package from the USA and will be going for the obligatory pilgrimage next year, you will get a chance to experience the spiritual atmosphere at this mountain during the pilgrimage.
Mount Uhud, Madinah
This mountain, located near Madinah, is the site of one of the earliest battles in Islamic history. In these battles, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) led the army of Muslims and fought against the infidels of Makkah. Even though Muslims had an upper hand during the first half of the battle, the archers disobeyed the Prophet (SAW) during the second half, which shifted the momentum of the fight.
The beloved uncle of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), Hazrat Hamza (RA), was martyred in this battle. If you visit this mountain, you will get a chance to see his grave along with the tombs of numerous other martyrs of the fight. It is a rugged red mountain that also offers beautiful views of the city in addition to its spiritual atmosphere.
Wadi Al-Aqiq, Madinah
This valley is mentioned in the Hadith as a renowned place for prayer. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) used to pass this valley and pray here. When it rains, the valley continues to flow. You will be mesmerised by the lush greenery and water flow of this valley in the desert landscape.
The natural beauty of this valley, along with its spiritual significance, makes it a must-visit natural and sacred site around the holy city of Madinah. If you are looking for a refreshing time in nature while exploring the sacred sites, you must not miss out on this one. You will surely fall in love with Wadi Al-Aqiq.
Final Words
No doubt we know Makkah and Madinah for their mosques, but the natural sacred sites are also something that you must not miss while you are on the pilgrimage. You can freely explore all the sites near Makkah and Madinah even if you have an Umrah visa. So, stop worrying and start planning your time in the region. You must determine how you want to spend your time in Makkah and Madinah after performing the Umrah to ensure the most immersive and memorable experience.