Iraq Tour Packages
Iraq's holy cities of Najaf and Karbala are among the most visited pilgrimage sites in the world.
Iraq at a glance
- RegionMiddle East
- CapitalBaghdad
- Time zone2 hours 30 minutes behind India
- Driving sideRight
- Calling code+964
- CurrencyIraqi dinar (IQD)
- LanguagesArabic, Kurdish
- Power plugsTypes C, D and G · 230 V
Best time to visit: October to April
Top Iraq travel packages
A few of our Iraq itineraries in different travel styles. Every one is private and can be changed to suit you.
Essential tips for travelling to Iraq
Iraqi dinar (IQD). Carry some local currency for markets, small shops and tips, and ask your bank about international card charges before you travel.
Small tips for drivers, guides and hotel staff are customary.
Drink bottled or filtered water; it is cheap and easy to find.
Types C, D and G · 230 V. Indian two-pin plugs usually fit; carry an adapter for three-pin chargers.
Languages spoken: Arabic, Kurdish.
Most pilgrims fly into Najaf; Karbala is about 1 hour 30 minutes away by road. Baghdad and Kadhimiya can be added on the way.
We plan ziyarat to Iraq only when government travel advice allows, and recheck it before departure.
Women should wear an abaya at the shrines; it can be borrowed at the entrance.
General guidance. Local rules and services change; we confirm details for your dates.
Where is Iraq?
Open a larger map → · The map frames the 2 places we cover in Iraq.
Who should visit Iraq?
Plan your Iraq trip from India
Everything you need to know about Iraq
Iraq's holy cities of Najaf and Karbala are among the most visited pilgrimage sites in the world. Najaf holds the shrine of Imam Ali, and Karbala the golden-domed shrines of Imam Hussain and Hazrat Abbas, which draw millions of pilgrims for Muharram and the Arbaeen walk.
We plan trips to 2 destinations in Iraq: Najaf and Karbala. Highlights include Imam Ali Shrine and Imam Hussain Shrine. Local food worth trying: Iraqi biryani, Masgouf (grilled fish), Kebab and samoon bread and Iraqi kebab. Our Iraq itineraries run from 7 to 10 days and every one can be changed to suit you.
When to go
October to April. Mild weather for ziyarat; summers are extremely hot. Arbaeen and Muharram are the busiest times.
Getting around
Most pilgrims fly into Najaf; Karbala is about 1 hour 30 minutes away by road. Baghdad and Kadhimiya can be added on the way.
View all Iraq packages
Private, customisable itineraries with prices quoted for your dates, hotel category and group size.
8D / 7NNajaf · KarbalaIraq Ziyarat: Najaf & Karbala
The shrine of Imam Ali and the mosques of Kufa from Najaf, then the shrines of Imam Hussain and Hazrat Abbas at Karbala, subject to current government travel advice.
View itinerary →7D / 6NNajaf · KarbalaArbaeen Walk to Karbala
Ziyarat in Najaf, then the Arbaeen walk of about 80 km to Karbala with mawkib rest stops along the way, and four nights near the shrines, subject to current government travel advice.
View itinerary →
10D / 9NMashhad · Najaf · KarbalaIran & Iraq Ziyarat
The shrine of Imam Reza in Mashhad, then Najaf and Karbala in Iraq, linked by flights, subject to current government travel advice for both countries.
View itinerary →3 itineraries
Places to visit in Iraq
IraqNajaf
Najaf is the city of the Imam Ali shrine, whose golden dome rises over one of the holiest places in Shia Islam, and of Wadi-us-Salaam, among the largest cemeteries in the world.
IraqKarbala
Karbala holds the shrines of Imam Hussain and his brother Hazrat Abbas, facing each other across the open walkway of Bain-ul-Haramain.
Top attractions in Iraq
Cultural experiences in Iraq
Heritage and landmarks
On the menuFood to try
- Iraqi biryani
- Masgouf (grilled fish)
- Kebab and samoon bread
- Iraqi kebab
- Dolma
- Halva and tea
Outdoor activities in Iraq
Many activities are seasonal. Best time for Iraq: October to April. We check operating seasons for your dates.
Iraq travel tips
Visa and entry
Entry rules for Indian passport holders change, including visa-free, visa-on-arrival and e-visa schemes, so confirm the current rules on the official government or embassy website for Iraq before booking flights. Most countries require a passport valid for at least six months beyond your return date. We check the current requirements when we prepare your quote; we cannot guarantee visa approval.
Health and safety
Buy travel insurance that covers medical treatment and evacuation; healthcare abroad can be expensive. Carry prescription medicines in their original packaging with a copy of the prescription. For current safety advice, check the travel advisories published by the Government of India and the embassy in Iraq.
Currency and tipping
The currency is the Iraqi dinar (IQD). Small tips for drivers, guides and hotel staff are customary.
Best time to visit
October to April. Mild weather for ziyarat; summers are extremely hot. Arbaeen and Muharram are the busiest times.
Getting around
Most pilgrims fly into Najaf; Karbala is about 1 hour 30 minutes away by road. Baghdad and Kadhimiya can be added on the way.
Local etiquette
- Dress modestly at temples, churches and mosques, and remove footwear where asked.
- Ask before photographing people, and follow photography rules at religious sites and museums.
What to pack
Pack modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees for religious sites and comfortable walking shoes.
Phone and internet
Indian mobile operators sell international roaming packs, or you can buy a local SIM or eSIM on arrival with your passport. Check that your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM before you travel.
Budget
We don't publish fixed prices because the season, hotel category, flights and group size change the cost. Your written quote lists exactly what is included, so you can compare like for like.
Iraq FAQs
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Plan your Iraq holiday
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