Karbala - Discovering Iraq

Travelling to Karbala

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Karbala, a pretty good destination in Iraq (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Karbala and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Karbala, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Iraq, here's everything to know about Karbala for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Karbala

Karbala is a city in central Iraq located about 100 kilometers southwest of Baghdad. It is considered one of the holiest cities for Shia Muslims as it is home to the shrines of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, and his half-brother, Abbas ibn Ali. Every year, millions of Shia Muslims visit the city during the mourning period of Muharram to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein in 680 AD. Karbala has a rich history and cultural heritage, with several museums and historic sites to explore. The city's economy is centered around agriculture, with date farming being a major industry.

What to visit in Karbala

Karbala is a city in central Iraq, located about 100 km south of Baghdad. It is considered a holy city for Shia Muslims, as it is the site of the shrine of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Karbala: 1. Shrine of Imam Hussein: This is the most important place to visit in Karbala. The shrine of Imam Hussein is a holy site for Shia Muslims, who come from all over the world to pay their respects and pray here. The shrine complex includes several buildings, courtyards, and a golden dome. Every year, millions of pilgrims visit this shrine during the annual Arbaeen pilgrimage.
2. Shrine of Abbas ibn Ali: This shrine is located next to the shrine of Imam Hussein and is dedicated to Abbas ibn Ali, the half-brother of Imam Hussein. It is a beautiful complex with several courtyards, fountains, and a blue dome.
3. Wadi al-Salam Cemetery: This is one of the largest cemeteries in the world, with millions of graves. It is believed to be the final resting place of many prophets, Imams, and scholars.
4. Al-Mokhayam Mosque: This is one of the oldest mosques in Karbala, built in the 7th century. It was originally built as a military camp during the Battle of Karbala, but later converted into a mosque.
5. Al-Imam Al-Hussein Hospital: This is a modern hospital located near the shrines of Imam Hussein and Abbas. It was built in 2008 and provides medical services to pilgrims who visit Karbala.
6. Al-Tilfah Lake: This is a beautiful lake located on the outskirts of Karbala. It is a popular spot for picnics and boating.
7. Al-Ma'qil Palace: This is an ancient palace located in the center of Karbala. It was built by the Abbasid Caliphs in the 9th century and used as a residence for the governor of Karbala.
Overall, Karbala is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Shia Islam. The city is steeped in history, tradition, and spirituality, with many important shrines and monuments to explore.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Iraq, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Karbala.

When to go on holiday to Karbala

The best time to plan your trip to Karbala (Iraq) is during the winter months, between November and March when the temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C. The summer months can be extremely hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. Additionally, Karbala is an important religious destination for Shia Muslims and sees a big influx of religious pilgrims during the commemoration of Ashura in the Islamic month of Muharram, so it's important to check the dates of this event before planning your trip.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Karbala

There are several options to get to Karbala, Iraq. Here are some: 1. By Air: Fly to Najaf International Airport (NJF), which is the nearest airport to Karbala, located approximately 80 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or cab to Karbala.
2. By Road: Karbala is well-connected by road to major cities in Iraq. You can hire a taxi or take a shared taxi or minibus from cities like Baghdad, Najaf or Basra to Karbala.
3. By Train: Unfortunately, there is no train service to Karbala. 4. By Bus: You can also take a bus from major cities like Baghdad, Najaf, or Basra to Karbala. It's recommended to check the current travel advisories and entry requirements before planning your trip to Iraq.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Karbala, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Karbala

Sure, here are some typical foods of Karbala, Iraq with a brief description of each: 1. Maqluba: a traditional dish made with rice, meat (usually lamb or chicken), and vegetables such as eggplant, cauliflower, and potatoes. The ingredients are cooked together in a pot, then flipped over onto a serving dish.
2. Quzi: a roasted lamb or mutton dish that is stuffed with rice, spices, and caramelized onions. It is often served at special occasions like weddings and religious festivals.
3. Tashreeb: a soup made with lamb or chicken, vegetables, and pieces of bread. The bread softens and absorbs the flavors of the soup, making it deliciously savory.
4. Biryani: a rice dish cooked with either chicken, lamb, or beef, blended with various spices and herbs. It often includes raisins, almonds, and fried onions.
5. Shawarma: a Middle Eastern fast food that consists of meat (usually beef or chicken) that is roasted on a spit and cooked with spices and vegetables. It is served in a wrap or pita bread, along with tahini or garlic sauce.
6. Falafel: a popular vegetarian dish made with ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices that are formed into balls or patties and fried. It is often served as a sandwich or wrap, with lettuce, tomatoes, and tahini sauce.
7. Hummus: a dip made with pureed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. It is often served with pita bread or raw vegetables.
8. Baklava: a sweet dessert made with layers of phyllo pastry, nuts (usually pistachios or walnuts), and honey or syrup. It is a popular treat during holidays and celebrations. I hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Iraq here.

Is Karbala an expensive destination for tourists?

Karbala, being an important religious destination for Shia Muslims, can be quite expensive for tourists. The cost of travel, food, and accommodation can be higher than other cities in Iraq. Additionally, the influx of visitors during religious events and festivals can drive up the prices even higher. However, it is possible to find affordable options if you plan ahead and research your options. Overall, the cost of your trip to Karbala will depend on your travel style and budget.

Where to find accomodation in Karbala

There are several areas where you can find accommodation to visit Karbala: 1. Old City: This area is located near the Imam Hussein Shrine and has plenty of hotels and motels.
2. Al-Hindiya: It is another area located near the Shrine with many hotels, restaurants, and shops.
3. Al-Jumhuriya: This area is located in the central part of Karbala with several hotels, shops, and restaurants.
4. Al Ahd: This area is located in the western part of the city and is home to several hotels and guest houses.
Overall, it's best to find accommodation near the Imam Hussein and Imam Abbas shrines as it makes it convenient to visit these holy sites.
You can check hotel prices at Karbala here:
Booking.com

Is Karbala a safe destination for tourists?

Karbala is generally considered a safe place for tourists, but there are some precautions that travelers should take. The US Department of State lists Iraq as a Level 4 Travel Advisory, meaning that they recommend travelers do not travel to Iraq due to the high risk of terrorism, kidnapping, and armed conflict. However, if you do choose to travel to Karbala, it is important to stay up-to-date on the current situation and any travel advisories issued by your government. Additionally, it is recommended to travel in a group, to avoid large crowds or demonstrations, and to remain careful and vigilant at all times. It is also important to respect local customs, dress conservatively, and be mindful of your behavior in public areas.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Iraq here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Karbala.

What type of travelers will enjoy Karbala the most?

Karbala, Iraq is a significant religious destination for Shia Muslims visiting the shrine of Imam Hussain, which is the main attraction in the city. Therefore, it is ideal for travelers seeking spiritual enlightenment, history enthusiasts, and families interested in religious tourism. The city is not much of a place for couples or young people looking for fun, as there is a strong religious atmosphere in the city. However, visitors interested in attending cultural and religious ceremonies such as Muharram and Safar rituals may find Karbala interesting. Moreover, visitors who are passionate about history and love exploring sacred sites will find Karbala fascinating. However, visitors should note that during the annual pilgrimage, Arba'een, the city gets crowded, and it may not be the best time to explore the city in peace.

How to get around Karbala

The most common mode of transportation in Karbala is by taxi or private car. However, the city also has a public transportation system including buses and shared taxis, known as "service taxis" or "khatta." Walking is also a popular way to get around the central parts of the city.

What to see around Karbala

Here are some nice places you can consider visiting in a day trip from Karbala: 1. Najaf: A sacred city located about 59 kilometers (37 miles) south-west of Karbala, Najaf is a popular pilgrimage site and home to several impressive landmarks such as the Imam Ali Shrine.
2. Babylon: An ancient city located about 93 kilometers (58 miles) south-east of Karbala, Babylon is known for its rich history and archaeological remains, including the famous Hanging Gardens.
3. Hilla: A city located about 27 kilometers (17 miles) north-east of Karbala, Hilla is home to several historic sites, including the ancient city of Babel and the Al-Mutyabbq Mosque.
4. Lake Razazah: Located about 70 kilometers (43 miles) north of Karbala, Lake Razazah is a picturesque lake surrounded by mountains and perfect for a relaxing day trip.
5. Al Qadisiyah Lake: Another beautiful lake located about 80 kilometers (50 miles) north-east of Karbala, Al Qadisiyah Lake offers stunning views and tranquil surroundings for a day trip.
6. An Najaf Al Ashraf Museum: A museum located in Najaf, this place houses a vast collection of artifacts and information related to the history and culture of the region.
These are just a few options, but there are many more places within a day trip distance from Karbala that offer unique experiences and interesting sights to see.
For every travel information about Iraq you can click here.

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