Religious site

Jabal Thawr

Check tickets & tours

Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.

Jabal Thawr is a rugged mountain in Mecca that holds deep significance as the hiding place of the Prophet Muhammad and his companion Abu Bakr during their migration (Hijra) to Medina. The cave, known as Ghar Thawr, is located near the summit and is a key pilgrimage site. Visitors can hike the steep, rocky trail to the cave, which offers a glimpse into the early struggles of the Muslim community. The site is distinctive for its role in a pivotal event that marked the beginning of the Islamic calendar, and the cave's small entrance and interior evoke the urgency of that historic escape.

Don't miss

  • Explore Ghar Thawr, the cave where the Prophet and Abu Bakr hid from pursuers.
  • Hike the mountain's challenging path, which provides a sense of the terrain during the Hijra.
  • Learn about the spider's web and dove's nest that legend says concealed the cave entrance.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Jabal Thawr

You can visit Jabal Thawr on your own. A guide is worth it for the history and detail that is easy to walk past, and a tour can combine it with nearby sights.

More attractions in Mecca

Planning your trip to Mecca? See where to eat, more attractions, or build a Mecca itinerary.