Jabal Al-Nour, also known as the Mountain of Light, is located near Mecca in Saudi Arabia and holds significant religious importance in Islam. This mountain is home to the Hira cave where the Prophet Muhammad is said to have received his first revelation. Here’s how to reach this important destination:
KIng Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah is the nearest international airport to Mecca. It is approximately 100 km from Mecca, and visitors can take a taxi or a bus to reach the city. Travel from the airport to Mecca can take up to 1.5 hours depending on traffic conditions.
Visitors already in Saudi Arabia can reach Mecca by car or bus. The city is well-connected via highways with nearby cities like Jeddah, Riyadh, and Medina. Car rentals and bus services are widely available. Non-Muslims should note that they are not allowed to enter Mecca.
Once in Mecca, you can take a taxi or public transport to reach Jabal Al-Nour. The mountain is situated about 4 km northeast of the Grand Mosque (Al-Masjid Al-Ḥarām). Taxis are the most convenient way to travel within the city. Please be aware that during the Hajj period, the area can be very crowded, and transport might be harder to find or require longer wait times.
The Hira cave is located near the summit of Jabal Al-Nour. To reach the cave, visitors need to hike up the mountain. The hike can take around 1 to 2 hours depending on your fitness level. It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes and take water, especially in hot weather. The climb is quite steep in certain places, so proper precautions should be taken.
Remember to respect the cultural and religious norms while visiting the mountain and the Hira cave, as it is a site of monumental importance in Islam.
If you plan to visit during the Hajj pilgrimage, make sure to arrange your accommodation and transport well in advance, as millions of pilgrims travel to Mecca during this time. Special permits are required for Hajj visitors, so ensure all your paperwork is in order before traveling.
No matter when you plan to visit, double-check travel advisories and visa requirements as they can change frequently.
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