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Tomb of Sheikh ʿAdī: The Yazidi Spiritual Heart

Discover the spiritual heart of Yazidism at the Tomb of Sheikh ʿAdī in Lalish, a sacred valley of pilgrimage and ancient traditions.

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Nestled in the Lalish Valley, the Tomb of Sheikh ʿAdī is the holiest site for Yazidis, followers of an ancient religion with roots in Mesopotamia. The tomb is dedicated to Sheikh ʿAdī ibn Musafir, a central figure in the Yazidi faith, and draws pilgrims from around the world to experience its unique spiritual atmosphere. Visitors can explore the tomb's intricate architecture, participate in age-old rituals, and connect with the Yazidi culture.

A brief summary to Tomb of Sheikh ʿAdī

  • Q8C3+JMC، معبد لالش النوراني،, Lalish, Nineveh Governorate, IQ
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Dress modestly to respect the sacred site and local customs.
  • Remove your shoes before entering the temple grounds.
  • Step over the door sills instead of stepping on them.
  • Visit during early morning or late afternoon for a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Engage with local guides to learn more about the history and significance of the tomb.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Duhok, the most practical way to reach Lalish is by taxi. A return taxi should cost around 40,000 Iraqi dinars, and the journey takes approximately one hour. Alternatively, a private taxi for a day trip from Erbil, including Lalish, Akre, and Alqosh, may cost around USD 125. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

  • Car

    If driving, head towards Mosul and then take the road towards Lalish, approximately 50 km away. Follow the signs for Lalish; the tomb is located within the Lalish Valley. Be aware that some rural roads may be less maintained. GPS coordinates are 36.771557, 43.304128.

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Discover more about Tomb of Sheikh ʿAdī

The Tomb of Sheikh ʿAdī, located in the Lalish Valley, is the spiritual center of the Yazidi faith. Yazidism is a monotheistic religion with links to ancient Iranian religions, Christianity, Islam and Judaism. The faith is transmitted verbally, and its practices are often misunderstood. The tomb is dedicated to Sheikh ʿAdī ibn Musafir, who died in 1162 and is considered a saint. Yazidis believe he is an avatar of Tawûsî Melek, the Peacock Angel, one of seven angels to whom God entrusted the world. The Lalish sanctuary may date back 4,000 years. Sheikh Adi settled in Lalish in the early 12th century to escape religious rigidity, and his teachings merged with local traditions. The site attracts Yazidi pilgrims, especially during festivals. At least once in their lives, Yazidis are expected to make a six-day pilgrimage to Lalish to visit the tomb and other sacred places. Visitors must walk barefoot and step over, not on, the raised door sills. Inside the tomb, pilgrims often tie knots on silk coverings, make wishes, and circle the tomb counter-clockwise. The complex includes shrines to other holy beings, sacred springs called Zamzam and Kaniya Spî (White Spring), a cave below Sheikh Adi's sanctuary, and Mount Arafat. The architecture features conical cupolas, emblematic of Yazidi religious buildings. The valley is the most sacred place in Yazidism and the location of the sanctuary of Sheikh 'Adî.

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