Distance & Route:
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Najaf to Karbala: 80 km
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Number of marker posts: 1,452 (spaced 50m apart, 20 posts = 1km)
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Estimated walking time: 2-3 days
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Ideal start date: 16th or 17th Safar
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Expected arrival: 18th Safar
Who can participate?
Open to all - men, women, children, and families
The Walking Route:
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Begins at Imam Ali's (AS) shrine
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Exit through Bab al-Sa'a gate
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Proceed straight via Imam Zainul Abideen (AS) or Imam Sadiq (AS) streets
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Join the main Karbala highway where thousands walk together
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After ~75km, at post 1,452, you'll reach the shrine of Abul Fadhl al-Abbas (AS)
Walking Instructions:
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Start walking at dawn, stop at sunset
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Rest when tired - don't overexert
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At sunset: Find a Mawkib (service station) for Maghrib prayer, dinner and lodging
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First night: Stay at a Hussainiya or tent
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Missing persons centers at posts: 72, 335, 602, 1103, and near al-Abbas shrine (every 3km)
What to Pack:
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Travel light - food/water provided along route
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Essential medications for 2-3 days
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Backpack (easier than hand-carrying)
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Cold weather gear: socks, gloves, scarf, ear protection, jacket
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Anti-chafing cream (apply before walking)
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Religious materials (duas, Quran, latmiyat)
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Worn-in, comfortable open shoes
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Passport, visa, phone charger
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Stroller for children
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Umbrella (possible rain)
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Walking stick (helps reduce fatigue)
Important Notes:
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All services (food, lodging, massage) are free
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Abundant restroom facilities (some Western-style)
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Vehicles available if you can't continue walking
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99% of adults and children over 10 complete walk in 3 days
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Carry your Karbala address written down (network may be down)
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Make calls before sunrise (network congestion likely)
Spiritual Recommendations:
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Purify your intention for this walk
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Pray on time as Imam Hussain (AS) did
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Maintain solemn atmosphere - avoid inappropriate laughter
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Frequently recite salawat and duas while walking
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Respect the sanctity of holy sites
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Sisters: Observe extra modest hijab at holy sites