Hiking in the Holy Land
Umrah: A Spiritual Journey
Undertaking Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey, blending devotion, history, and personal reflection.
Between December 29, 2024 and January 12, 2025, we had the privilege of traveling to Madinah and Makkah, visiting sacred landmarks and performing the Umrah rituals.
Along the way we visited historical sites and completed a memorable hike up Jabal Nur. Of course, I’m a hiker!
This is my experience.
Arrival in Madinah: The City of the Prophet (PBUH)
Madinah, known as Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah (the Enlightened City), is where my journey began.
The city, steeped in Islamic history, welcomed me with its serene atmosphere. The towering green dome of the Prophet’s Mosque (Al-Masjid an-Nabawi) is an iconic sight that fills the heart with awe and reverence.
One of the most poignant moments of the trip was visiting the grave of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), housed within the mosque.
Standing there, reflecting on his life and legacy, was a profoundly humbling experience. Pilgrims from across the globe come here, united in their faith and love for the Prophet.
Strictly speaking, visiting Madinah is not one of the rituals of the Hadj or Umrah, but it is disrespectful not to visit the Prophet (PBUH) when on these journeys.
Exploring Madinah’s Historical Sites
Madinah is not only a spiritual hub but also a repository of Islamic history. Among the many landmarks I visited, the following stood out:
Quba Mosque
A short distance from the city center, this mosque was the first built by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) upon his migration to Madinah.
Praying here is said to be equivalent to performing Umrah, and the mosque’s simplicity reflects the essence of the early Muslim community.
Read more about Masjid Quba here.
Mount Uhud
This site is where the Battle of Uhud took place, a significant event in Islamic history.
Gazing upon the mountain (which I didn’t climb), I thought about the bravery of Hamzah (RA), the Prophet’s uncle, who was martyred here.
Visiting his grave was a moving reminder of the sacrifices made for the faith.
‘The cave of Uhud is one of the most popular spots on this mountain. It is said to be where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) sought refuge after suffering defeat in the Battle of Uhud.’
Read more about Mt Uhud and The Battle of Uhud here.
Badr
Driving to the plains of Badr, I was struck by the contrast between the barren landscape and the historical significance of this site. It was here that a small Muslim army, against all odds, defeated the Quraysh.
The Muslims were helped by angels sent from heaven during The Battle Of Badr. It is from this mountain the angels came to help The Prophet (PBUH), known as Jabal Malaikah (Mountain of Angels).
We also stopped at the Beer-e-Shifa well on our way to Badr. The waters of this miraculous well have healing properties.
Journey to Makkah: The Sacred City
From Madinah, we travelled to Makkah, the beating heart of Islam.
It’s always heart breaking to leave Madinah. Pilgrims will attest to the tranquillity that permeates Madinah, but also because we are leaving the resting place of our Prophet (PBUH).
The Great Mosque (Al-Masjid al-Haram) and the Kaaba, around which all Muslim prayers are oriented, took my breath away.
Seeing the Kaaba for the first time in 11 years was an emotional experience unlike any other—a moment that etches itself into the soul.
Labayk Allahumma Labayk
Here I am Lord. Here I am.
The Umrah Rituals: Steps of Devotion
Performing Umrah involves a series of rituals, each imbued with profound significance:
The State Of Ihraam
Before entering Makkah, we don the Ihram clothing.
For men this is the two white, seamless garments symbolizing purity and equality before God.
For women, this involves modest, simple clothing.
Entering into a state of Ihram requires specific intentions (niyyah) and abstention from certain activities, fostering a mindset of humility and devotion.
Tawaf
Upon reaching the Great Mosque, we performed Tawaf, circling the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction.
Each circuit was an act of worship and supplication, connecting me to millions of pilgrims throughout history who have performed the same act.
More importantly, connecting me to my Creator.
Read more about the Tawaf here.
Sa’ee
Between the hills of Safa and Marwah, we walked back and forth seven times, commemorating Hagar’s search for water for her son, Ishmael. This ritual underscores the themes of perseverance and trust in God.
Learn more about the Sa’ee here.
Halq/Taqsir
Finally, we concluded the Umrah by cutting a small portion of our hair (taqsir), signifying renewal and submission.
For men, shaving the head (halq) is also an option.
Exploring Makkah’s Sacred Sites
The Cave Of Thawr
This cave sheltered the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Abu Bakr (RA) during their migration from Makkah to Madinah. The story of their escape is a testament to faith and divine protection.
We did not enter the cave this time, but I had the honour of praying in the cave when I performed Hadj in 2013.
Read more about The Cave Of Thawr here.
Jabal Rahma (Mount of Mercy)
This is the site where Prophet Adam and Hawa (Eve) are believed to have reunited after being sent to Earth. It is also where pilgrims gather during the Hajj to seek forgiveness and pray.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) narrated, “There is no day on which Allah SWT frees people from the Fire more so than on the day of ‘Arafah. He comes close to those (people standing on ‘Arafah), and then He revels before His Angels saying, “What are these people seeking.”(Muslim)
Read more about the significance of Jabal Rahmah/Arafah here.
Climbing Jabal Nur (Mount of Light)
Climbing Jabal Nur was a highlight of my trip. This mountain, located just outside Makkah, is home to the Hira Cave, where the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) received the first revelation of the Quran. The hike, though challenging, was deeply rewarding.
The Trail
The climb up Jabal Nur is steep, with uneven rock paths and occasional makeshift steps.
Most people avoid the heat by climbing at night. I was profoundly shocked at the changes at the base of the mountain. Progress is not always a good thing.
It took me about 45 minutes to an hour to reach the summit, but the journey itself was an exercise in patience and perseverance. Along the way, I was greeted by other climbers, some local and others from distant lands, each drawn by the mountain’s spiritual significance.
The Cave Of Hira
The cave is small and unassuming, yet standing there evokes a profound sense of history and reverence. It was in this spot that the angel Jibreel (Gabriel) appeared to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) with the command to “Read” (“Iqra”).
I spent time in quiet supplication, reflecting on the weight of that moment and its impact on the world.
It is a bit of a shoving match trying to get into the cave, but I managed somehow. If you’re afraid of crowds or confined spaces, this is not your buzz.
Read more about the Cave of Hira here.
Saudi Arabia: A Land Of History and Transformation
Traveling through Saudi Arabia provided a glimpse into a country balancing its rich Islamic heritage with rapid modernization. And not always getting it right. But that is another blog.
The infrastructure around the holy cities is designed to accommodate millions of pilgrims annually, with efficient transport systems and a variety of accommodations. At the same time, the historical sites remain well-preserved, offering a window into the early days of Islam.
I may not agree with the Saudis on geo-politics a lot of the time but I cannot fault them on their amazing work in managing the often-incorrigible crowds, literally millions of pilgrims who visit the two mosques and other significant sites in Islamic history. There they are doing a sterling job.
Beyond the holy cities, Saudi Arabia’s diverse landscapes—from vast deserts to rugged mountains—highlight the natural beauty of this region.
As a hiker I was fascinated by the rugged mountains in harsh, unforgiving terrain. I have a renewed respect for the first Muslims who undertook the Hijrah. I dont think I would survive the journey from Makkah to Madinah in my boots and with an endless supply of water; its that inhospitable.
Sitting in an air-conditioned bus, with water and snacks, I was humbled at that journey 1400 years ago through the desert with very little protection from the elements, starved, thirsty and hunted by the Quraysh. Subhanallah!
Reflections
My Umrah journey was as much about spiritual growth as it was about personal discovery.
The rituals and historical sites connected me to a greater purpose, while the hike up Jabal Nur reminded me of the value of persistence and reflection. Whether you are drawn to the spiritual aspects or the historical significance, Umrah offers a transformative experience that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.
For anyone considering this journey, my advice is simple: prepare your heart and mind, embrace the lessons along the way, and savor every moment of this unique pilgrimage. May your journey be as fulfilling and enlightening as mine was.
Thanks
Rasools Travel for an amazing experience. Alhamdullilah!
Sh. Mujahied and Shaigah Soraya Laatoe for leading with humility, humour and an incredible love for this sacred travel. What an inspiration. And couple goals!
To our loved ones and friends at home whose support is critical in this journey – we love you long time
To our new ‘Rasools Umrah family’ – Ons onmoet in die Paarl!
Photos and videos courtesy of:
Waleed
Zeenat
Firoza
Sh Mujahied
Sorage
Nadia
Aslm Maa Shaa Allah. Umrah Maqbool and Mabroer. To you, Darawees and your Group. My tears were rolling while reading the Blog. Wasalaam Aunty Sharifa Noordien Ismail.
May Allah SWT accept all duahs iA
Shukran