Taif sits high in the mountains about 90 km from Makkah — roughly 75 minutes by car up the winding Al-Hada road. It is cooler than Makkah and a popular day trip for pilgrims.
What to see
- Masjid Abdullah ibn Abbas — named after the Companion and scholar who is buried nearby.
- Masjid Addas — linked to the Prophet's ﷺ journey to Taif and his meeting with Addas.
- Masjid al-Kou — a small historic mosque visited by many pilgrims.
- Miqat Qarn al-Manazil (As-Sail al-Kabir) — if you want to perform another Umrah, you can enter ihram here on the way back to Makkah.
- Al-Hada mountain road — dramatic views over the mountains.
- Al-Shafa — the highest area of Taif, with cool air and fruit farms.
- Rose farms — Taif roses bloom in spring (around March–April), when the rose-water factories are busiest.
- Shubra Palace — a historic palace in the city.
Planning tips
- Leave Makkah after Fajr or Duha and return by evening.
- Take a jacket in winter — Taif can be cold.
- If you plan to make Umrah on the way back, bring your ihram and stop at Qarn al-Manazil.