Joanna James
Oman is a fascinating country with so much diversity and heritage and culture that for a traveller it is the most perfect location to explore and really sate the wanderlust. If you are looking for some epic things to do while in Oman here are a list of the top five things to get you started.
One of the most epic things to do is to go hiking up the Wadi Shab. In Arabic, Wadi means canyon and the canyon that makes up Wadi Shab is absolutely breath-taking. But the added advantage is that this is the only Wadi with beautiful crystal pools of water that you can explore. The stark contrast of the turquoise waters with the red sandstone makes it the perfect place for some pretty photographs. The hike itself takes about 45 minutes and can be a bit tedious but the locals insist it is nothing but a walk. Nevertheless, wear proper hiking shoes but also take a pair of flipflops with you to change into once you're at Wadi Shab.
Bahla Fort is a lesser-known tourist site despite being on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. It was constructed in the 13th century and is a paradise for lovers of history and architecture. But if you are passionate about photography, you will find plenty of places where you can take pictures that you would never be able to take anywhere else. The fort is much more affordable than visiting the other forts that are more famous and you get to have some places within the fort to yourself if you time your trip right.
The best place to watch the sunset in Oman is over the Wadi Dayqah Dam. Located along the East Coast, the dam is the perfect vantage point from which you can see sweeping views of the Omani coast and it is easily accessible. You are likely to find yourself amidst lots of locals who come with their whole family to celebrate an evening out watching the sun go down.
Named for the former sultan of Oman under whose rule Oman prospered, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is only an hour's drive from Al Wadi Hotel Sohar which is considered one of the best hotels in Oman; and is one of the most breath-taking mosques you will ever see, anywhere in the world. The mosque is open to the public on Saturdays to Thursdays from 8 am to 11 am. Mosques are rarely made available for non-Muslims, but Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque also allows women to enter as long as they are properly veiled. So, make the most of this opportunity. You won't regret it.
Don't forget to end your trip with a glamping journey to the Wahiba Sands desert where you can experience Bedouin life and stargaze into the night.
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