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Hajj attracts some 3 million pilgrims

A Muslim pilgrim stands near the Heera cave on Jebel al-Noor, Mount of Light, as he prays above the city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia on December 5, 2008. The Heera cave is where Muslims believe Prophet Mohammed received the revelation of the Koran. More than two million Muslims head to the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia to make the annual Hajj pilgrimage. All fit and financially able Muslims are expected to perform the Hajj at least once in their life. (UPI Photo/Mohammad Kheirkhah)
A Muslim pilgrim stands near the Heera cave on Jebel al-Noor, Mount of Light, as he prays above the city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia on December 5, 2008. The Heera cave is where Muslims believe Prophet Mohammed received the revelation of the Koran. More than two million Muslims head to the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia to make the annual Hajj pilgrimage. All fit and financially able Muslims are expected to perform the Hajj at least once in their life. (UPI Photo/Mohammad Kheirkhah) | License Photo

MECCA, Saudi Arabia, Nov. 16 (UPI) -- Millions of Muslim pilgrims headed for Mecca, Saudi Arabia, after leaving the site of Mohammed's last sermon on Mount Arafat, officials said.

The first stop after leaving was Muzdalifah where pilgrims traditionally collect pebbles for the next day's symbolic stoning of the devil in Mina, the Iranian Arabic news channel al-Alam reported Tuesday.

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Nearly 3 million Muslim pilgrims are reported taking part in this year's hajj, which began Sunday.

Monday's ceremonies on Mount Arafat, a granite hill about 200 feet high, symbolize the climax of the hajj.

A pillar on the hilltop marks the site where the Prophet Mohammed delivered his final sermon.

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