Umrah Packages Help Pilgrims Visit Important Islamic Sites

by Safeena Rahman Travel Addict

Every year, numerous Muslims residing in different parts of the globe make their journey to the holy city of Makkah from their home countries to perform Umrah. It is also referred to as the 'lesser pilgrimage' or the 'minor pilgrimage' as it involves a lesser number of rituals when compared to the major pilgrimage of Hajj. One of the five pillars of Islam, the Hajj is compulsory for all Muslims and must be performed at least once in their lifetime if they are physically fit and have the required finances to undertake the pilgrimage. Umrah is not an obligation for Muslims and can be performed at any time during the year.

The Umrah packages UK Muslims seek for performing their lesser pilgrimage are now provided by numerous travel companies or tour operators based in the country. Such packages not only offer them the opportunity to accomplish their minor pilgrimage but also give them sufficient time in Makkah to buy some souvenirs and to visit the religious sites in the holy city. One of them is the Masjid-e-Taneem, which is a large mosque located at a short distance from the Holy Kaabah. Also called 'Masjid-e-Ayesha, this mosque is also the place where Prophet Muhammad's (peace be upon him) wife Ayesha (may Allah be pleased with her) had entered the state of 'ihram'.

Many of the UK-based tour operators or travel companies offer Umrah package deals that give the pilgrims of the country greater savings that can be utilised for visiting the important Islamic sites in and around Makkah. Another place of great significance is a sacred mountain called Abu Qubais, which is located on Makkah's eastern frontier. It is the place where Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) had shown the miracle of splitting of the moon to the pagan Arabs on their demand. It is also believed to be the place where the first of men had stayed.

Jabal-al-Noor can also be visited with the help of Umrah packages from UK. This mountain is located in Saudi Arabia's Hejazi region near the holy city of Makkah. The name of this mountain translates as the 'Mountain of Light' or the 'Hill of Illumination'. It is home to the 'Cave of Hira', where Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) had spent a considerable amount of time in solitude and deep contemplation. The cave is also the place where he received his first revelation comprising Surah Al-Alaq's first five ayats from the Archangel Jibreel (A.S).

Pilgrims from the UK who are in Makkah for their Umrah can also visit Mount Arafat during their stay in the holy city after performing the lesser pilgrimage. It is also known as 'Jabal al-Rahmah', which literally translates as 'Mountain of Mercy'. The name refers to an event that took place at this spot after the first prophet Adam (peace be upon him) fell from Heaven. After the fall, he was forgiven by The Almighty Allah and the place where this particular event took place has been marked by a pillar. Another significant event associated with this place is the 'Farewell Sermon' that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) delivered towards the end of his life.

You can click here for detailed information on Ramadan Umrah packages.