Ready-made plan
Karbala at a gentler pace
The main shrines on the first day, then Al-Mukhayam and Tal al-Zainabiya, with room for rest and return visits.
- Cities
- Karbala
- Suggested length
- 2 suggested days
Two unhurried days. The first is for Imam Hussain (AS) and al-Abbas (AS). The second visits the places of Ashura and leaves time to rest or return to the shrines.
Day 1: The two shrines
Imam Hussain (AS), then across Bayn al-Haramayn to al-Abbas (AS).
Stop 1: Shrine of Imam Hussain (AS)
العتبة الحسينية
- The burial place of Imam Hussain (AS) in Karbala, and the heart of ziyarat for millions of visitors each year. Read the guide to Shrine of Imam Hussain (AS)
Stop 2: Shrine of al-Abbas (AS)
العتبة العباسية
- The shrine of al-Abbas ibn Ali (AS), Imam Hussain’s (AS) brother and standard-bearer at Karbala, facing Imam Hussain’s shrine across Bayn al-Haramayn. Read the guide to Shrine of al-Abbas (AS)
Day 2: Places of Ashura
Al-Mukhayam and Tal al-Zainabiya, both close to the shrines. Keep the rest of the day free for rest or return visits.
Stop 3: Al-Mukhayyam (the Camp)
المخيم الحسيني
- A site commemorating where the camp of Imam Hussain’s (AS) family is traditionally held to have stood before and during the events of Ashura. Read the guide to Al-Mukhayyam (the Camp)
Stop 4: Tal al-Zainabiyya
التل الزينبي
- A raised site traditionally associated with Lady Zaynab (AS), sister of Imam Hussain (AS), during the events of Ashura. Listed under “Key Landmarks” on the existing site. Read the guide to Tal al-Zainabiyya
Before you go
- Durations are suggestions, not schedules. Crowds, especially during Muharram and Arbaeen, can change everything.
- Opening times, journey times and access rules are not included because they change. Check locally on the day.
- Follow shrine staff, police and posted entrance instructions.