Makkah is one of the holiest cities in the world. Millions of pilgrims visit the city every year to perform Hajj and Umrah. Makkah is also one of the most beautiful cities and is surrounded by seven magnificent mountains. Compiled below is the list of mountains in Makkah. These mountain have rich rich past and played significant role in the history of Islam and Makkah city. Some of these mountains have great religious significance while others offer exceptional views and numerous fun activities.
The seven mountains in Makkah
1. Thawr Mountain
The Thawr Mountain is also popularly known as Jabal Thawr, which translates to “mount of the bull.’ It is located around five kilometers from Makkah. The mountain is believed to be nearly fifteen hundred meters tall. It is also often referred to as Thawr Athal. The mountain holds significant religious and spiritual importance in the Muslim community. It is believed that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companion, Abu Bakr, hid from the Quraysh by taking shelter on this mountain. They stayed inside one of the caves on this mountain during their emigration from Makkah to Madinah. The cave is around three feet wide and located on the mountain’s northwest side. It is located in Makkah Province, Saudi Arabia.
Mountain height: 1405 m
How to reach: The mountain is located 5 km from Makkah in the Hejaz Region. Tourists can easily take a rented taxi to reach the mountain.
Things to do:
- It is the perfect place to go trekking with friends and family
- The mountain offers stunning views
- It is the best place to get close to spiritual life
Must Read: The Complete History Of Thawr Cave
2. Jabal Al Nour
Translated as “The Mountain of Light,” Jabal Al Nour is situated on the outer borders of the holy city. The mountain is almost seven hundred meters tall, making it prominent even if viewed from a distance. Jabal Al Nour is quite popular amongst tourists because it provides a magnificent view of the holy mosque and all of Makkah. The mountain also features the Ghar-e-Hira, which translates to the Cave of Hira. It is believed that during ancient times, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used to meditate in this cave. It is also considered the birthplace of Islam and the place where the Prophet had his first revelations of the holy Quran.
Mountain height: 642 m
How to reach: The mountain is located in Makkah Province, Hejaz, Saudi Arabia. Tourists can hire a cab from anywhere in Makkah to reach the location.
Things to do:
- Tourists can visit the famous caves, including Ghar-e-Hira
- It also offers magnificent views of the city and the holy mosque
Must Read: The Cave of Hira In Jabal Al Noor: History And Importance
3. Jabal Omar
Located six hundred meters toward the holy mosque’s northern side, Jabal Omar is the center of small suburban neighborhoods. Though the mountain is not very high, it is still very popular among the pilgrims and tourists. Saudi Arabia’s government proposed a project that has started shaping the mountain differently. The gray mountain will soon be filled with several luxury hotels and apartments. These luxury lodgings will also provide guests with a captivating view of the Holy Kaaba.
How to reach: It is located on the southern side of the Al-Haram district, Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Tourists visiting Makkah can rent a cab or use public transport to reach the mountain.
Things to do:
- Jabal Omar features malls that can take care of all the shopping needs
- Tourists can visit several fancy restaurants and cafes
- Jabal Omar also features many luxury hotels to stay near the holy Kaaba
4. The Thabir Mountain
The Thabir Mountain peaks just a little under nine hundred meters. It is located on the eastern side of Makkah. A popular opinion amongst historians suggests that it is the place where Allah had sent the scapegoat to Prophet Ibrahim just when he was about to sacrifice his son. This is one of the significant events that shaped the history of Islam and is held close to the Muslim community. Muslims from around the world regularly visit this mountain annually to practice sacrificing goats, sheep and cows to reflect on the historic event.
Mountain height: 877 m
How to reach: The Thabir Mountain is a part of the Hejaz Mountain range and is just opposite Jabal Al Nour. The best mode of transport is a rented cab.
Things to do:
- The Thabir Mountain is a holy site for many Muslims worldwide
- Animal sacrifice is performed by many on this mountain
- One can also go for a trek with friends and family on this mountain
5. Jabal Khandama
The Jabal Khandama is located just behind Abu Qubais Mountain at an elevation of over five hundred meters. Like its brother, Jabal Omar, it is also undergoing a development project. The project is being conducted under the banner of the Jabal Khandama Development Project. The Fakeih Group is in charge of this development project. They are also one of the Middle East’s most renowned real estate developers. The project will expand the prayer area and construct many facilities to increase pilgrims’ visits.
Mountain height: 511 m
How to reach: The mountain is located behind Jabal Omar and should not be missed while visiting the latter.
Things to do:
- The Jabal Khandama provides a beautiful view of the city from its peak
- One can stay in one of several luxury hotels
- Tourists can dine in at one of many fancy restaurants and cafes in this place
6. Abu Qubais Mountain
Probably the most significant of all the seven mountains, Abu Qubais Mountain currently acts as a foothold for a Royal Palace. It is located close to Mountain Safa. Abu Qubais Mountain is famous among tourists because several important historical events occurred there. It serves as a pillar of Makkah and is considered the first mountain to be created by Allah. It is also believed that when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was building a house for Allah, he used rocks from the mountain of Abu Qubais. Prophet Adam is believed to have passed away on this very mountain. This is why the mountain holds immense importance in the hearts of Muslims.
Mountain height: 420 m
How to reach: Located east of Masjid Al Haram is easily accessible from different parts of the city.
Things to do:
- One can explore the holy sites present on this mountain
- Tourists can also go trekking with friends and family
7. Quaiqian Mountain
Popular as Jabal Hindi, the Quaqian Mountain is located on the western side of the Holy Kaaba. The mountain got its name from a clash between two tribes. The name originated from the clanking of swords during the battle of the Jurhum and Katura tribes. The mountain is among the top places to visit in Makkah during the holy pilgrimage of Hajj and Umrah.
Mountain height: 633 m
How to reach: Located on the west side of Masjid Al Haram can be visited by rented cab or public transport.
Things to do:
- One can connect to nature as they have never before
- It is the best place to go on a walk if tourists are looking for some peace
- Exploring is always a good idea when climbing the mountain
Makkah is one of the most significant cities in the Muslim community, attracting thousands of pilgrims regularly. The above list of mountains in Makkah provides a detailed insight into the seven grand mountains.
Suggested Read: Mountains In Saudi Arabia Are Home To Historical Peaks And Charming Vistas
Mountains In Makkah FAQs
How far is Thawr Mountain from Makkah?
The Thawr mountain is around 5 km away from Makkah.
On which mountain is the Hira Cave located?
The Hira Cave is located on Jabal Al Nour.
On which mountain is animal sacrifice still practiced?
People from all over the world come to Thabir Mountain to perform animal sacrifices.
How to get to Jabal Omar?
The Jabal Omar is 600 meters toward the northern side of the Holy Mosque.
Which mountain rocks were used to create a house for Allah?
The rocks of the Abu Qubais Mountain were used to create a house for Alla.
