Day 3 of Hajj: Muzdalifah Guide for Hajj: What to Do After Arafat Until Fajr.
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The Sacred Night at Muzdalifah
After spending the day at Arafat, pilgrims head to Muzdalifah on the night of the 9th Dhul Hijjah. This overnight stay under the open sky is a deeply spiritual and humbling part of Hajj. Many people walk on foot but the transport is arranged as well. Due to rush, it becomes difficult for the buses to transport all pilgrims from Arafat to Muzdalifah. It is best to keep connected to group leader.
📍 Arrival and Maghrib + Isha Prayers Combined
Once you reach Muzdalifah, you will offer Maghrib and Isha combined — 3 and 2 rakats respectively — at the time of Isha. This is the Sunnah method. Make sure to have a lot of water supply. Bring enough water from Arafat. There will be no shop, etc in Muzdalifah.
🪨 Collecting Pebbles for Jamarat
Pilgrims collect **49 or 70 small pebbles** (about chickpea size) to be used for **Rami (stoning the pillars)** at Mina. The stones can be collected at any time during the night from the open grounds. Make sure the stones are not big sized. Make sure to pick extra 5-10 stones. Make sure to pick the stones after offering Maghrib and Isha before going to sleeping.
🌌 Sleeping Under the Stars
There are no tents or fixed accommodations at Muzdalifah. Pilgrims lay down their mats or blankets and sleep on the ground. It's a unique chance to connect with the simplicity of Hajj.
🕛 Fajr and Departure to Mina
Wake up for Fajr prayer and after praying, you wait briefly until the sky slightly brightens. Then the caravan moves toward Mina for the first day of Rami (stoning).
🧕 Tips for Comfort
- Carry a foldable mat and light sleeping bag or sheet.
- Keep a lot of water bottles (I suggest 10 at least) and light snack — no formal meals are served here.
- Stay with your group. The open area can feel overwhelming.
- Collect a few extra pebbles in case some are dropped later.
- From Muzdalifah there is a prime chance of not getting the bus transport and after this rest of the Hajj will be on foot
✨ Summary
Muzdalifah is not just a place to rest — it's an act of worship and reflection. By sleeping under the sky and gathering your own stones, you follow in the footsteps of the Prophet ﷺ and prepare for the challenging next day of Jamarat.
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