The holiest place in the Yazidi religion, set in a wooded valley about an hour southeast of Duhok. The temple complex centres on the tomb of Sheikh Adi ibn Musafir, surrounded by the distinctive conical spires that are the symbol of Yazidi sacred architecture.
Visitors are welcome and the community is hospitable — but the etiquette is firm. Shoes come off at the entrance, and you must never step on a threshold (always over it). Photography of the inner shrine is discouraged. A guide from the visitor centre will walk you through the main shrine, the spring of Zem Zem, the underground chambers, and explain the rites. Many Yazidis return here once in their lives to be baptised in the spring. Combine with a stop in Duhok or Mosul on the way back.