Cave of Hira
Where the first revelation came.
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A mountain in north-eastern Mecca crowned by the Cave of Hira, where the Prophet Muhammad used to retreat in worship and where, in Islamic tradition, he received the first revelation, the opening verses of Surat al-Alaq. That is why the mountain is called Jabal al-Nour, the Mountain of Light. The mountain rises to about 640 metres, and its summit is unusual, looking like one mountain set on top of another. There is almost no water or vegetation beyond a few thorns. The cave sits at a height of about 270 metres, is roughly 3.7 metres long and 1.6 metres wide, and is reached by around 1,750 steps. The climb is hard and takes between half an hour and three hours depending on fitness and crowds, with a wide view over Mecca and the Clock Towers from the top. Visiting the cave is not part of the rites of Hajj or Umrah, but many visitors climb it for its place in the Prophet's life, thousands a day in the Hajj season. The mountain lies within Mecca, so it is open to Muslims only. Climb early in the morning or shortly before sunset to avoid the heat, and bring plenty of water and good shoes: the steps are uneven and exposed to the sun, and the way down needs care.
Where the first revelation came.
Mecca and the Clock Towers below.
Like one mountain atop another.
About 5 km north-east of the Grand Mosque, Mecca
Around 1,750 steps, taking between half an hour and three hours depending on fitness and crowds.
No, it is not one of the rites, but many visitors climb it for its place in the Prophet's life.