Ghar Hira is the place where the first revelation was sent down to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, and it is located at the top of Mount Noor (Mount Hira) northeast of Mecca. This place is not just a historical landmark — it is the most famous Islamic site in the world, visited by millions of pilgrims, pilgrims, and visitors every year.
Who it belongs to: visitors from all over the world
Where it is: Mount Noor — Hija migration area, Mecca
How much it costs: Free
When: 24 hours all week
💡 Fact: Hara cultural area offers organized trips to the cave with safe paths and guides
What is Ghar Hira?
Ghar Hira is a cavity in the rocks of Mount Noor, about 3 meters long and about 1.5 to 2 meters wide. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to worship there before the prophethood, and in the month of Ramadan of the year 610 AH, Angel Gabriel ﷺ descended upon him with the first verses of the Qur’an: “Read in the name of your Lord who created.”
The mountain itself — Mount Noor — rises 642 meters above sea level, and its area is 5.25 square kilometers. Its shape resembles a camel’s hump, and its color tends to black.
Hara Cultural Area — A Complete Experience
In recent years, the relevant authorities have developed the area around the mountain into a comprehensive tourist destination. Hara Cultural Area is the official gateway to visit the cave, and it offers:
- Revelation Exhibition: An interactive experience that tells the story of the revelation from start to finish
- Qur’an Museum: Displays rare manuscripts and information about the history of the Qur’an
- Safe Climbing Path: A paved path with beautiful steps, equipped with lighting and safety measures
- Shops and Cafes: Family gatherings, Saudi coffee, and souvenir gifts
- Car Parking: Available with sufficient space
The area has welcomed more than 4 million visitors from 132 countries — showing how the place has become a global tourist destination.
Visit Information
| Information | Details |
| Location | Mount Noor — Hija area, Mecca |
| Distance from the Haram | 4 km northeast |
| Visit times | 24 hours / 7 days |
| Fees | Free |
| Visit duration | From 1 hour to 2 hours |
| Museums (Hara Area) | Saturday-Thursday 7:30 AM – 11:30 AM Thursday and Friday until 1:00 PM |
Tips Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking — the climb has steps but is a bit long
- Bring water especially in summer — the weather is hot
- Start the climb early morning or before sunset for pleasant weather
- Use only the designated paths — safety first
- The best time for photography: sunrise or sunset, the golden light produces amazing photos
- It’s best to start from Hara Cultural Area — all the services you need are there
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the visit open to everyone or just Muslims?
A: The site is dedicated to Muslims, and it is one of the most prominent Islamic landmarks in Makkah.
Q: How long does it take to climb the cave?
A: About 30-45 minutes, depending on your physical fitness. The descent is faster — about 20-30 minutes.
Q: Are there nearby parking lots?
A: Yes, there are parking lots in the Hira Cultural District, and from there, the ascent journey begins.
Q: Are there restaurants or cafes nearby?
A: Yes, the Hira Cultural District has cafes, shops, and restaurants that are suitable for families.
📍 Official Website: Hira Cultural District | Discover Makkah
