Mount of Mercy
The white pillar on top.
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A rocky hill on the Plain of Arafat south-east of Mecca, rising about 70 metres above the plain and also known as Jabal al-Rahmah, the Mount of Mercy. On this plain pilgrims stand on the ninth of Dhu al-Hijjah, the Day of Arafah, the most important day of Hajj: missing the standing at Arafat on that day invalidates the pilgrimage. In Islamic tradition, this is where the Prophet delivered the Farewell Sermon during his last pilgrimage. Some Muslims also believe that Adam and Eve were reunited here after coming down to earth, hence the name Mount of Mercy, and a white pillar on the summit can be seen from afar. On the Day of Arafah the plain fills with pilgrims: the sermon is given, the noon and afternoon prayers are joined, and at sunset the pilgrims move on to Muzdalifah. Since 2010 the holy sites have been served in the Hajj season by the Mashaer railway. Outside the Hajj season, Umrah visitors come to Arafat on tours of the holy sites from Mecca and climb the short flight of steps to the top. The site is open and hot most of the year, so mornings or the hour before sunset are best, with water and a hat. In the weeks before Hajj, entry to Mecca and the holy sites is limited to permit holders.
The white pillar on top.
Where pilgrims stand on Arafah.
Its place in Islamic tradition.
Plain of Arafat, about 20 km south-east of the Grand Mosque, Mecca
Yes. Umrah visitors come on tours of the holy sites from Mecca; it is free, and mornings or the hour before sunset avoid the worst heat.