Jabal al-Noor, the “Mountain of Light”, rises a few kilometres north-east of the Haram in Makkah. It is the mountain that holds the Cave of Hira, and it is one of the best-known Ziyarat places of the city. This page is a practical guide to the mountain itself; read our Cave Hira guide for its history.
The climb
A stepped path leads up the mountain. Most people take around one to one and a half hours to reach the cave and a little less to come down, depending on fitness, weather and crowds. The path is steep in places and there is little shade.
Please note
Climbing the mountain is not part of Umrah or Hajj. It is a visit to a historic place, so go only if you are comfortable doing it, and never at the cost of your obligations.
Tips for a safe visit
- Go early after Fajr or in the cooler evening; avoid the midday heat completely in summer.
- Wear good walking shoes and bring water.
- Elderly visitors and anyone with heart, breathing or knee problems should think carefully — the view from the base is also worth seeing.
- Take your phone and keep your group together.
Getting there
A private taxi takes you from your Makkah hotel to the foot of the mountain, waits while you climb and can continue to other Makkah Ziyarat places. Press Book this tour above to see the fare.