Home / Islamic Landmarks around the World / Hijaz & the Arabian Peninsula / Ghar Hira (Cave of Hira)
Hijaz & the Arabian Peninsula
Ghar Hira (Cave of Hira)
Jabal an-Nur near Makkah, Saudi Arabia
Here Gabriel brought the Prophet ﷺ the first verses of Surah al-Alaq. It is a spiritual summit overlooking the Makkah sanctuary from a height above 600 meters.
Story & history
Makkah's care for the mountain is ancient, dating to the beginning of revelation; the Kingdom paved its safe stairway for climbers with interpretive signs at the entrance.
Getting there
Pin the site on the map or head straight there with your maps app; opening hours and access vary by season.
Quick facts
- The mountain rises about 642 m
- The cave holds only a few people
- The climb takes about two hours
Visiting tip
Aim for a dawn climb with care on the rocky path.