Pushpitha Wijesinghe
Oman is bursting with adventure. It is the perfectly idyllic land for any traveller equipped with a sharp sense of exploration.
While there are many valleys (wadis in Arabic terminology), Shab is one outstanding location to go on exploration. If you are in Muscat, it is simply a matter of a few hours to reach the valley. Your exploration kicks off with a short hike. That hike introduces you to a host of rock pools. Your expedition includes climbing between rocks, swimming through the pools and climbing the small waterfalls. The expedition leads you to a large cave filled with water. Inside the cave, you will hear own voice echoing. More exciting is when you are passing the stalagmites and stalactites.
Not so far from Shab valley, Tiwi Hole is in Hawiyat Najm Park. This is also known as the Sink Hole. Reach here, and you will get to see the vast landscape of the area and you will forget the whole world for a moment. You will feel as if you have fallen into a Shangri-la from somewhere. And do not forget to swim in the warm seawater. If you are into snorkelling, even better. Then better take a break for a day or two at one of the hotels in Oman.
If you are not an experienced hiker, then forget Snake Gorge. It needs a good physical vigour to fulfil your adventurous spirit here. You have to swim for three kilometres, passing various caves and waterfalls. Your expedition is through a narrow dramatic canyon. The whole path just looks like a snake in a rough terrain. And of course you have to keep a watch on the snakes that might pop up at any moment. But don't worry, as they are harmless.
Majalis Al Jin Cave is considered to be the second largest cave-chamber in the world. So it has some weight. Having said that, you need some professional assistance for this adventurous expedition. Best if you can be equipped with a bit of professional training as well. Majalis Al Jin Cave is no nonsense business. And notice the three types of light that brighten the entire cave premise through the roof. It will give you a feel of being in a land of magic. You can also access the bottom by abseiling making use of the necessary equipment. You can seek information about where to buy equipment from any hotel such as Oman Domain.
Jebal Akhdar is for nature lovers. It lets you explore Oman's finest canyons, plateaus, mountain cliffs and valleys. Stretched for about 300 km, the highest point of eastern Arabia lies just here in Jebal Akhdra. And you will need a four-wheel drive to roam the rocky terrain. If you are planning for an overnight camping, well, you have come to the right place.
