The short answer
Hajj is the annual pilgrimage performed on fixed days of the month of Dhul Hijjah, and it is obligatory once in a lifetime for Muslims who are able to do it. Umrah is the shorter pilgrimage that can be performed at most times of the year. Scholars describe the ruling on Umrah in different ways, so ask a trusted scholar if you want the detail for your school of thought. Umrah does not replace Hajj.
Hajj and Umrah compared
| Umrah | Hajj | |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Most of the year, subject to visa rules | Fixed days of Dhul Hijjah only |
| Main rites | Ihram, tawaf, sa'i, then shaving or trimming the hair | The Umrah-style rites plus Mina, Arafat, Muzdalifah and the stoning of the Jamarat |
| Duration | A few days of rites within a trip of one to two weeks | Several days of rites within a longer trip |
| How Indian pilgrims go | Through licensed Umrah agents | Through the Haj Committee of India or approved private operators |
| Planning window | Weeks to months ahead | Applications and quotas are fixed well in advance |
Planning Umrah from Pune or Mumbai
Umrah is easier to plan around your own calendar. Most group departures fly from Mumbai, and packages are priced by sharing type and hotel distance. Our current starting fares per person are Asaan Umrah from ₹1,02,000, Sukoon Umrah from ₹1,14,500 and Deluxe Umrah from ₹1,28,000, and they change by departure date. See our guides to Umrah packages from Pune and Umrah packages from Mumbai.
Planning for Hajj
Hajj from India has its own application process and fixed timelines, so check the current rules on the official Haj Committee of India website and with approved operators. See our Hajj 2027 packages from Pune and Mumbai. Keep your passport valid and your documents in order well ahead. Our documents guide is a useful starting point for what to keep ready.
Which should you do first?
Many people perform Umrah first, learning the rites of tawaf and sa'i and getting used to the journey before Hajj. That is a personal and practical choice rather than a rule, so decide with your family and your scholar.
Frequently asked questions
Does Umrah replace Hajj?
No. Umrah does not fulfil the obligation of Hajj. Hajj is a separate pilgrimage with its own rites and fixed days.
When can I perform Umrah?
Umrah can be performed on most days of the year, though visa rules and seasonal restrictions apply, so confirm dates with your agent. Hajj is only performed on the fixed days of Dhul Hijjah.
Does Al Shams arrange Hajj?
Yes. We have Hajj 2027 packages of 21 and 35 days from Mumbai, for pilgrims from Pune, Mumbai, Satara and Bangalore. Seats depend on the applicable quota and government rules, so please confirm eligibility and availability with our desk.