Why you should visit Oman, the Gulf’s undiscovered gem
From treasured places of worship, historic forts, vast desert landscapes to ancient irrigation systems, the Sultanate of Oman, found hugging the southeast coast of the Arabian Peninsula is a journey of a lifetime. Affording remarkable and authentic experiences and discoveries, Oman will ensure your holiday goes off well. Provided are some of the reasons why you should consider coming over.
The capital of Muscat
Muscat, the capital of Oman is home to a wonderful collection of cultural sights and sounds that you as a tourist, would do well to check out. Begin at the largest mosque in the nation, which is also the only of its kind open to non-Muslims: the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Established in 2001 and covering well over 4,447,000 square feet, this mosque is a work of art in the strictest sense, as it houses the world’s 2nd largest chandelier and 2nd largest handwoven carpet. Named after the former ruler, Qaboos bin Said Al Said, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque features stunning Islamic architectural design elements, including well-carved wooden panels and magnificent stained-glass windows. For the insta-savvy globetrotter, herein lies a great chance to capture some of the best pictures of Oman’s rich heritage. Accessible through the Mutrah Corniche, the celebrated setting of Mutrah Souq will allow patrons to hunt for traditional textiles, elaborate jewellery, eye-catching sandals, a host of hardware and even muskets that were once used during the Dhofar wars that arose during the 1970s. Categorised as an Arab marketplace brimming with plenty of nooks and corners, the Mutrah Souq is where you could bargain for your favourite best buys, interact with friendly traders and sample traditional coffee on your way out.
The port city of Sur
For a city where some of the world’s finest shipbuilders apply their trade, the coastal hamlet of Sur, found around 2 and a half hours from Muscat ought to rank high on your bucket list. Explore Oman’s maritime supremacy by calling by the Dhow Factory where you will be able to come to terms with how these traditional wooden boats were crafted. In order to admire breathtaking views of Sur, it is mandatory that you allocate time for Sunaysilah Castle. Built on a square plan on top of a hill, this 300-year castle that bolstered the city’s defence in times long gone is an excellent base to view the city and also explore its immaculately designed steps, walls and towers.
Jebel Akhdar
Part of the Al Hajar range, the Jebel Akhdar Mountains are associated with rugged lands, fresh air and lovely scenery. Found within a region that is well-known for its rose harvesting, the said attraction nicknamed the ‘Green Mountains’ presents avid hikers and trekkers with an opportunity to make journey en route to embracing jaw-dropping panoramas of Oman’s wilder side. Further, be sure to visit the Bahla Fort, which has etched its presence as Oman’s 1st UNESCO-listed stronghold that dates back to medieval Islamic times. Found just over an hour from Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort, which is treated as a good Oman resort to stay at, Bahla Fort was built from stone and mud bricks and in turn, is made up of castellated parapets and rounded towers.
Philipp Weigell, Jebel Akhdar view, CC BY 3.0
Wadi Shab
Whether you are passionate about nature walks, love a relaxing swim in freshwater pools or simply adore the thought of viewing terraced plantations, the Wadi Shab is the place to be. Nestled in Oman’s Al Sharqiyah region, the Wadi Shab accommodates the fancies of those travellers whore are keen to hike and spend as much time in Oman’s outdoors. While swimming is only allowed within the Wadi’s upper reaches, this attraction comprises waterfalls, turquoise pools and an irrigation channel or ‘falaj’ to come into contact with at one’s own leisure.
