Lalish Temple معبد لالش
The holiest place of the Yazidi faith, in a valley north-east of Mosul. Visitors walk barefoot in the temple area.
Lalish holds the tomb of Sheikh Adi ibn Musafir, the 12th-century figure revered by the Yazidis, under distinctive fluted conical spires. Yazidis try to make a pilgrimage here at least once in their lives, and the valley fills with visitors during the Yazidi New Year in April and the autumn Feast of the Assembly.
The temple is set among trees, springs and small shrines. Visitors take off their shoes in the sacred area, do not step on thresholds and are welcomed by the guardians of the temple. Lalish is in Duhok province, about an hour’s drive from Mosul, and is often combined with Khinnis and Alqosh.
Visit with our tour: Lalish & Khinnis Historical Tour →
Travel tips
- Remove your shoes before entering the sanctuary area and avoid stepping on thresholds.
- Dress modestly and ask before photographing people.
Questions & answers
Where is Lalish Temple?
Lalish Temple is in Mosul, Nineveh Governorate, Iraq. The map on this page shows its location.
How can I visit Lalish Temple?
Lalish Temple is included in our Lalish & Khinnis Historical Tour tour (1 day). You can book it on WhatsApp, and we arrange the guide, transport and any permissions.
Learn more
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