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Makkah is a very important city for Muslims. It is in the western part of Saudi Arabia and is known for its deep religious meaning. Every year, millions of Muslims visit the city, especially for the Hajj pilgrimage, which is a duty for all Muslims. The main religious site here is the Masjid al-Haram mosque, which has the Kaaba inside it. Makkah is not only a place for worship but also a lively city with modern buildings and rich traditions. Whether you are visiting for faith or to see the sights, this city in Saudi Arabia offers a powerful experience.
Location
Photo: Sulthan Auliya / Unsplash
Makkah is in the Hejaz region of Saudi Arabia, located in a desert valley surrounded by hills and mountains. It is about 70 kilometres from the Red Sea. The city was important in the past because it sat on old trade routes. It is not far from Jeddah, the main port city of Saudi Arabia, which is a few hours’ drive away. The city is known for its mountains, such as Mount Arafat, where pilgrims gather during Hajj. You can reach it easily by air, land, or sea, with the nearest airport being King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.
How To Reach
Photo: Konstantin von Wedelstaedt / Wikimedia Commons
To reach Makkah, you can travel by air, land, or sea, depending on where you’re coming from.
By Air: The nearest airport is King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah, about 70 km away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Makkah. It is highly recommended to pre-arrange transport, especially during peak seasons such as Hajj or Ramadan.
By Bus: Buses regularly travel from cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Medina to Makkah. The bus ride can be a scenic and affordable way to reach the city.
By Train: The Haramain High-Speed Railway connects Makkah to Medina and Jeddah, providing a fast and comfortable journey.
By Car: If you’re travelling from nearby cities, renting a car is a convenient option. However, keep in mind that parking can be challenging in the city centre.
Places To Visit In And Around Makkah
Explore the spiritual, historical, and cultural landmarks, from the sacred Kaaba to modern marvels, Makkah has much to offer:
1. Masjid al-Haram (The Grand Mosque)
Photo: Saudipics.com / Wikimedia Commons
Masjid al-Haram, also known as the Grand Mosque, is the most important mosque. It is home to the Kaaba, the holiest place in Islam. Every year, millions of Muslims visit to perform Hajj or pray. The mosque has large courtyards and tall minarets. People gather around the Kaaba to perform Tawaf, which means walking around it seven times in a circle as part of their prayers. The mosque is open 24 hours, so visitors can come anytime to pray and think about their faith.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fees: N/A
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
2. The Kaaba
Photo: Adli Wahid / Wikimedia Commons
The Kaaba is the most sacred building in Islam. It is located at the centre of the Masjid al-Haram mosque. Muslims around the world face the Kaaba when they pray each day. Every Muslim hopes to visit the Kaaba at least once in their life, especially during the Hajj pilgrimage. The Kaaba is covered with a special black cloth called the Kiswa, which is changed every year. Pilgrims often touch or kiss the Kaaba as part of their religious rituals.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fees: N/A
Ideal Trip Duration: 30 – 45 minutes
3. Mount Arafat
Photo: Fahad Faisal / Wikimedia Commons
Mount Arafat is very important during the Hajj pilgrimage, where people gather on the plains of Arafat to take part in the “Wuquf” or standing. This is one of the most important parts of Hajj. Pilgrims believe that any prayers made on this day are especially blessed. The top of the hill offers a beautiful view of the area around and is a place for quiet thinking and prayer.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fees: N/A
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
4. The Cave Of Hira
Photo: Mardetanha / Wikimedia Commons
The Cave of Hira is an important place in Islamic history. It is located on Mount Noor. This is where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) first received a message from Angel Jibril (Gabriel). The cave is small and simple, with a peaceful and spiritual feeling. Many people visit it to learn about the history of Islam and reflect on its importance. The journey to the cave is difficult and requires climbing, but reaching the place where the first message was given makes the effort worthwhile.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fees: N/A
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
5. Masjid Quba
Photo: Kaliper1 / Wikimedia Commons
Masjid Quba is the first mosque ever built in Islamic history. The mosque was built by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) when he moved from Makkah to Madinah. Many pilgrims visit the mosque to pray because it is believed that praying here brings great reward. The mosque has a peaceful atmosphere and a deep history, making it a special place for people to reflect and pray.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fees: N/A
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
Where To Stay
Photo: Pexels / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Accommodation comes in many types, from expensive hotels near the Grand Mosque to more affordable places in the city. If you are going for Hajj or Umrah, it is important to book your stay early because hotels get full quickly. For a luxury stay, the Clock Royal Tower offers great services and a stunning view of the Grand Mosque. If you’re on a budget, there are guesthouses and hotels with good prices, especially on the outskirts. It’s a good idea to choose a place to stay that is close to the mosque for easy access.
Where To Eat
Photo: 2SIF / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The city has many places to eat, from traditional Saudi food to international dishes. For local food, try Albaik, a well-known fast-food restaurant that serves fried chicken and seafood. You can also enjoy kabsa, which is a dish with rice and meat, as well as shawarma, falafel, and fresh bread. There are also many cafes and restaurants offering food from different countries like Turkey and India. If you eat near the Grand Mosque, you can enjoy a meal with a beautiful view of the sacred site, making the experience even better.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Afif Ramdhasuma / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit the city is during the cooler months, from November to February. The weather is not too hot, so it is easier to walk around the city and visit important religious places. However, during the Hajj season, which happens in the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah, many pilgrims come here, and the city becomes very crowded. If you want a quieter visit, you can go during the off-season. Just remember to check the Islamic calendar for important dates like Ramadan or Hajj before planning your trip.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Rana Sawalha / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
The cost of a trip to the city depends on things like where you stay, how you travel, and how long you stay. For a 4-day trip, a person who stays in a mid-range hotel can expect to spend about £500 to £800 (₹45,000 to ₹72,000). This price includes staying at a hotel, food, and transport. If you choose a luxury hotel, it could cost more than £1,000 (₹90,000). For those on a budget, a trip can be cheaper, costing around £250 to £350 (₹23,000 to ₹31,000) for simple accommodation and meals.
Tips For Travellers
- Book your accommodation early, especially during Hajj and Ramadan.
- Make sure you carry some cash, but cards are widely accepted.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking a lot.
- Consider using public transport or taxis to navigate the city.
Makkah is a city full of history, culture, and religious importance. Whether you’re visiting for religious reasons or to learn about its rich heritage, this city in Saudi Arabia guarantees a memorable trip. With its easy access, beautiful sites, and friendly atmosphere, it remains one of the most important places in the world. Plan a trip with TripXL for an unforgettable experience.
Cover Photo: Sam Riz / Unsplash
