Makkah : #Saudi Arabia

Makkah, Saudi Arabia And Kaa'ba 

 

The holiest city in Islam is Makkah, commonly referred to as Mecca, and it is situated in present-day Saudi Arabia. It is thought to be the location of the Prophet Muhammad's birth and the first Quranic revelation. The Kaaba, a revered building that Muslims think was erected by the Prophet Abraham and his son Ishmael as a place of worship devoted to the worship of one God, is also located in Makkah.

Makkah is the centre of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and has great spiritual significance for Muslims. Muslims believe that making the Hajj and visiting the Kaaba in Makkah are essential components of their faith and a way of acquiring forgiveness and purifying their souls and spirits

Every day all Muslims face Kaa'ab in Makkah for their five prayers of the day. Which strengthens unity and emphasizes the importance of identity and the holy city and place. The City is a sacred city and Kaa'ab is the house of Allah the Lord and Creator of the whole university and this world and hereafter.
This Holy city is the place from where the spring of Islam emerged and spread all over the world. This Holy City of Makkah has great importance in history as well. 

Facts about the Lock Tower in Makkah

The Masjid al-Haram, the most sacred location in Islam, is close by the Makkah Clock Tower, also known as Abraj Al-Bait. 

 

Here are some interesting details regarding the Makkah Clock Tower:

Height of Makkah Clock Tower: 

Height: At 601 metres (1,971 ft), Makkah's clock tower ranks among the tallest structures in the world.

Clock Faces: The Clock Tower has four clock faces, the largest clock faces in the world, each measuring 43 metres (141 ft) in diameter.

Timekeeping: More than 2 million LED lights are used to illuminate the clock faces, which are synced to show the same time that is precise to a few seconds.

 

Bell Chimes: The Clock Tower also has a set of 21 bells that chime to signal the hour for the call to prayer. These bells range in weight from 6 to 15 tonnes.

 

Hotel: A larger complex that contains a five-star hotel, opulent apartments, and a shopping centre is where you'll find the Clock Tower.

Cost: It was reported that the Makkah Clock Tower building cost something in the neighbourhood of $15 billion.

One of the biggest hotels in the world, the hotel on the Clock Tower has a capacity of over 10,000 guests.

Sustainability: The Clock Tower complex has a number of environmentally friendly design elements, such as a cutting-edge waste management system and a rainwater harvesting system.

Hajj pilgrimage: The Makkah Clock Tower is a well-known sight for millions of pilgrims each year who visit Makkah for Haj or Umrah. 

 

Evening and Night in Makkah

 

Muslims have a unique time at Makkah, also known as Mecca, especially for those who are completing the Hajj trip. 

In order to do the Maghrib prayer at sunset, pilgrims congregate in the courtyards of the Masjid al-Haram, Makkah's Grand Mosque, once the day's heat has passed. 

 

 

 The sound of the call to prayer and the recitation of verses from the Quran are audible throughout the mosque and its surroundings at this time. Many pilgrims take advantage of the chance to participate in private prayer and reflection in the atmosphere of calmness and reflection.

The Tawaf, which entails circling the Kaaba,  seven times, the black cube-shaped edifice located in the heart of Mecca, is frequently performed by pilgrims following the Maghrib prayer.
Kaaba is situated in the middle of the Masjid-al-Haram in Makkah. The first sight of Kaaba is always an emotional experience for most the pilgrims visiting Makkah for the first time to perform Haj and Umrah and it is believed that upon first sight of Kaa'ab Muslims should pray for Allah.

 Tawaf also has great significance and shows the dedication and devotion of Muslims towards Allah and the religion Islam. This is very inspiring to see that there is Tawaf going on 24/7. No one cares about the harsh sunny weather of Makkah and still bare-headed and arms and females in a Black circle around the Kaaba with a wish of Forgiveness. 

 

 

During the evening Makkah becomes alive with hustle and bustle, with pilgrims shopping for meals from local restaurants, souvenirs, cloths, jewelary to present to friends and family back home, and engaging in social activities, trying to talk to each other as there are people from all over the world speaking hundreds of different languages, but one thing is interesting when the pilgrims leave, they all know few worlds of Arabic.

The evening is the time of devotion. community support. spiritual reflection.

Accommodation in Makkah

One of the most popular tourist destinations worldwide is Makkah, commonly known as Mecca, especially for Muslims who are conducting the Hajj pilgrimage. As a result, the city is home to a large number of hotels that serve the requirements of pilgrims and tourists. Following are a few instances of hotels in Makkah:


The opulent Clock Royal Tower: a Fairmont Hotel, is housed within the Abraj Al Bait complex, which is also home to the well-known Clock Tower. The hotel includes a wide range of services, including various restaurants, a fitness centre, and a spa, and gives breathtaking views of the Masjid al-Haram and the Kaaba.

Raffles Makkah Palace: This luxurious hotel is located in the Abraj Al Bait complex and features spacious suites with stunning views of the Masjid al-Haram. The hotel also offers a range of amenities, including multiple restaurants, a fitness center, and a spa.

Swissotel Al Maqam: This five-star hotel is located in the Abraj Al Bait complex and features modern rooms and suites with panoramic views of the Masjid al-Haram. The hotel also offers a range of amenities, including multiple restaurants, a fitness center, and a spa.

Pullman Zamzam Makkah: This luxury hotel is located just a few steps from the Masjid al-Haram and offers spacious suites with stunning views of the Kaaba. The hotel also features multiple restaurants, a fitness center, and a business center.

Hilton Makkah Convention Hotel: This modern hotel is located near the Masjid al-Haram and features spacious rooms and suites with views of the city. The hotel also offers a range of amenities, including multiple restaurants, a fitness center, and a business center.

These are just a few examples of the many hotels that are available in Makkah. Regardless of where you choose to stay, it's important to book your accommodation well in advance, particularly if you're planning to visit during the busy Hajj season.

Oats Soup

How to prepare smooth textured Oats Soup recipe

Oats soup is a healthy and tasty dish that is perfect for those who want to add more fiber and nutrients to their diet. Here's a simple recipe for preparing a smooth-textured oats soup:

Ingredients:

1 cup rolled oats
2 cups vegetable broth
1 onion, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 carrot, chopped
1 celery stalk, chopped
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish

Instructions:

• In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent.
• Add the chopped carrot and celery to the pot and continue to sauté for a few minutes until they begin to soften.
• Add the rolled oats to the pot and stir well. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the oats are lightly toasted.
• Pour in the vegetable broth and add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a boil.
• Once the soup comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the oats are cooked.
• Remove the soup from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, transfer the soup to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
• Once the soup is smooth, transfer it back to the pot and heat it up on low heat.
• Adjust the seasoning as per your taste.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.

Enjoy your smooth-textured oats soup!

Types of different flowers found in azad kashmir : Flowers in Pallandri : #Kashmir

Types of Different flowers found in Azad Kashmir

 Kashmir is considered to be world's most beautiful place. Kashmir is divided in two main parts 

 

 

 

• Azad Kashmir 
• Indian Occupied Kashmir

Azad Kashmir, also known as Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Kashmir is a region of stunning natural beauty with a variety of flora and fauna. 

 

Here are some of the different types of flowers found in Azad Kashmir:

Bluebells: These beautiful blue flowers are found in the lush green forests of Azad Kashmir. They bloom in the spring and add a pop of color to the landscape.

Rhododendrons: Rhododendrons are a common sight in the Himalayan mountains of Azad Kashmir. These pink or red flowers bloom in the spring and are often seen in large clusters.

Wild roses: Azad Kashmir is home to a variety of wild roses that bloom in the summer. They come in different colors, including pink, red, and white, and have a delightful fragrance.

Himalayan clematis: This white or pink flower blooms in the

summer and is commonly found on the rocky slopes of the Himalayan mountains in Azad Kashmir.

Primroses: Primroses are small, delicate flowers that bloom in the spring. They come in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, and yellow, and are often found along the edges of streams and rivers in Azad Kashmir.


Daisies: Daisies are a common wildflower in Azad Kashmir. They bloom in the summer and come in a variety of colors, including white, pink, and yellow.

Pansies: These colorful flowers bloom in the spring and can be found in gardens and parks throughout Azad Kashmir. They come in a variety of colors, including purple, yellow, and blue.                                                                                                               

 

Marigolds: Marigolds are a common flower in Azad Kashmir and are often used in religious ceremonies and festivals. They come in different shades of yellow and orange and bloom in the summer and fall.

Lilies: Lilies are a popular garden flower in Azad Kashmir and come in a variety of colors, including white, pink, and orange. They bloom in the summer and add a touch of elegance to any garden.

 

In conclusion, Azad Kashmir is home to a diverse range of flowers that bloom throughout the year, adding beauty and color to the already stunning landscape. The region is a paradise for nature lovers and enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Pakistan.
Some of different types of the flower pictures can be seen below. 

Indian Colorful Biryani

Indian biryani is a delicious and colorful rice dish that is popular throughout India and around the world. The dish is made with a variety of spices and ingredients, which give it a unique and complex flavor. Here is a simple recipe for making colorful Indian biryani at home:

Ingredients:

2 cups of basmati rice
3 cups of water

3 onion, chopped ( saute them until golden brown and take around half of the quantity out in a plate to add on top at the end)
2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 inch of ginger, grated
1-2 green chilies, finely chopped
1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
1 teaspoon of coriander powder
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1 teaspoon of garam masala powder
1/2 teaspoon of red chili powder
1/4 teaspoon of saffron strands (optional)

1 Kg Chicken clean, cut into pieces (desired size) and wash it.
1 cup of mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, potatoes) (optional)
1/4 cup of chopped mint leaves
1/4 cup of chopped coriander leaves
Salt, to taste
Oil or ghee, for cooking

2, 3 different colors of your choice. 

Instructions:

• Rinse the rice in water and soak it for at least 30 minutes. Drain the water and set aside.
• In a large pot, heat some oil or ghee and add the cumin seeds. Fry for a few seconds until they start to sizzle.
• Add the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, and green chilies to the pot. Fry until the onion turns light golden brown and dish out half of the quantity.
• in remaining onion add the coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala powder, and red chili powder to the pot. Mix well and fry for a minute or two until the spices are fragrant.
• Add the chicken and let it cook once done then add mixed vegetables if you like, to the pot and mix well. Fry for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
• Add the soaked rice to the pot and mix well with the vegetables.
• Add 3 cups of water to the pot and bring it to a boil.
• Once the water comes to a boil, lower the heat and cover the pot with a lid. Let the rice cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the water has been absorbed and the rice is cooked through.
• While the rice is cooking, soak the saffron strands in a tablespoon of warm milk.
• Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and add the saffron milk, chopped mint leaves, and chopped coriander leaves. Mix well and let the biryani rest for a few minutes.
• Add the golden onions at the top.
  

Serve the colorful Indian biryani hot with some raita (yogurt salad) or chutney on the side.

You can add one of the chicken or mixed vegetables at a time or both together. In the attached picture, I have added only chicken but I add mixed vegetables and chicken together as well. The taste is always amazing.

Enjoy your delicious and colorful Indian biryani!

Problems On Picnic Spots.

You have to suffer those things that you have never done yourself :’( .

Some mad kids/boys are always there to spoil a lot of things , your mood , trips and stuff. Today I will share some of my worst things that you can experience on picnic spot, in coming post I will share the best moments with you.

When we start our journey with a hope to enjoy it is ruined by first step of throwing up. I try to keep all busy so no one do not think about this and do not do this but when anyone  gets chance will show what they can do. These are the roads on which we travel to reach picnic spots , you can think of what the condition of stomach on this roads i-e. twisted many times to come in action. 

 On our way when we forget about first step then second step of torture starts; We have the misfortune  to stop on many washrooms and some of them are in worst condition in every sense. Flies , rats , ants , you name them and they have it all. Many washrooms do not have washrooms.

These disgusting horrendous untidy washrooms tell a picture of facilities that the government have provided to the people., smell is so awful. They are not provided by government but people build them by raising some money or you can see few with petrol pumps otherwise may be you do not see them at all along road and have to ask from homes if they allow you. There are many places to visit everywhere and people will be in large number they eat , chat , sing, dance and then throw all garbage on the spot and leave , no one is there to ask them about that. There is no regulatory body who can insure clean environment of such attractive places.

The people will be of every age , class and mentality. You will find some very nice people and some who do not have any respect for women at all. They will stop if they see you waiting alone and start honking they do not respect women. Sometimes they start to follow you.  They will not leave until you will call someone for help and when they see someone coming they will disappear and you will not know in which direction they went actually.

Some will come with friends and turn on music at very high volumes and all will dance and scream and howl like animals and you will be scared to hear that. They will really annoy you and on complain they will start fighting you.

Many play matches there, In picture below you can see ;

Volleyball match underway at Shaheed Gala near tolipeer #Rawalakot, AJK

All the pictures are collected from Facebook.