Things to Buy in Nizwa Souq - Shopaholics Delight

Buying a head of cattle may not be on your agenda but it is well worth a visit. The livestock market that takes place every Friday at the souq is a bustling hive of activity; there you can observe how the locals gather to bargain and bid on the carefully inspected cattle. Cows, goats and sheep are on display from the wee hours of the morning, where potential buyers are given a chance to examine and decide on their purchases before bidding starts. Mind you the market can be quite overwhelming due to the crowds and stench of the animals but it is a unique experience for many travellers.

Nizwa Souq is renowned for its exquisite silverware. The silver jewellery sold there is considered the best in Oman. The silversmiths of Nizwa are renowned for their excellent skills in making the traditional Khanjar Dagger; this is a unique curved dagger with elaborately carved handles and sheath as well as a range of elaborately carved silver jewellery. The trade is so highly acclaimed that Pakistani and Indian silversmiths come to Nizwa to work under the master craftsmen there.

Sweet succulent Omani dates are sold at the dates section of the bazaar. Prices are generally much lower than in Muscat while the quality of the dates is tipped to be quite good. Likewise you will like the Arabic Halva section of the market where the sweet treat in various forms is sold to eager customers hankering for taste of Arabic delights.

Nizwa Souk is located at the base of Oman's famous Green Mountains home to the Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort which occupies a plateau 2,000 metres above sea level. You may want to explore this region by deciding to stay at one of the Oman luxury resorts located there. The handicraft and souvenir section of the souq is quite a treat to explore. There you can purchase traditional crafts, leather goods, silver and gold jewellery as well as culturally alluring handicrafts.

Various forms of antiques are available at the market. Of course you need to have a keen eye to distinguish the fakes from the real thing. A good skill in bargaining too would be an added boost for it is an expected norm at the Arabic bazaars. Antiques come in many forms and cover a range of objects such as silverware, teapots, daggers, swords, jewellery and many other curious nick knacks.

Although you may not want to stock up on provisions browsing the fruit and vegetable section of the souq is ideal for a taste of what to expect within the Arabic peninsula. Exotic new fruits and vegetables are up for sale; for instance you can sink your teeth into lush watermelons and enjoy the soothing cooling texture of the fruit which is ideal for beating the desert heat.