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Makkah

Jabal al-Nour and Cave Hira

جبل النور وغار حراء

The mountain whose cave is where the first verses of the Quran were revealed.

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General information. History is summarised from established sources, and visiting rules come from official guidance, which can change. For religious guidance, consult a qualified scholar.

History

Before prophethood, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to spend time in reflection in the Cave of Hira near the top of this mountain.

Here the first revelation came to him through the angel Jibril, with the opening verses of Surah al-Alaq ('Read in the name of your Lord'), around 610 CE.

The mountain is about 4 km north-east of Masjid al-Haram.

Key facts

Event
The first revelation of the Quran
At the base
The Hira Cultural District with an exhibition about the revelation

Before you visit

  1. Climbing is not part of Hajj or Umrah. Go only if you are fit: the path is steep and usually takes about an hour each way.
  2. Climb early in the morning or late afternoon, carry water and wear proper shoes.
  3. The Hira Cultural District at the foot of the mountain has exhibits about the revelation. Check its opening times and tickets before you go.

Last checked: 2026-10-24. Confirm current visiting rules on the official source: visitsaudi.com

More holy places: Makkah