Joanna James
As one of Oman's most picturesque cities, Salalah offers travellers a wealth of opportunities to enjoy themselves to the fullest. Blessed with sunny beaches and heritage sites, here are some of the best ways to spend your time during a tour of this dynamic region of Oman.
Ranked among Oman's top beach holiday hubs, no trip to Salalah would be complete without spending time on one of its top beaches. Al Mughsail Beach is not only a pristine piece of paradise with clear waters and white sands but also a scenic beach hub surrounded by lush mountains. One of the most visually stunning aspects of Al Mughsail Beach is the natural fountains that spring out from the mountains encircling the beach, creating a liquid wonderland of sorts.
Considered among the best-preserved heritage sites in the region of Dhofar, Taqah Castle is a one-of-a-kind landmark that's difficult to explore on a single visit. Tourists will find several museums and exhibition galleries inside what was once the home of tribal leader Sheikh Ali bin Taman Al Ma'shani, who is also incidentally the maternal grandfather of Sultan Qaboos. Some of the most prized possessions of the castle are its extensive collection of tools and weapons that were used in centuries past while the ramparts of the edifice also offer spectacular views of the sunset every evening.
There is a reason why pilgrims from far and wide visit the Sultan Qaboos Mosque, which occupies the city centre of Salalah. As an architectural marvel in its own right, this spiritual epicentre is composed of two mammoth minarets and two domes that are as ornate as they are impressive. The interiors of the mosque contain lanterns and engraved walls while green tapestries cover every inch of the floor.
Occupying pride of place close to Salalah's Al Mughsail Beach, the Al Marneef Cave is what leads visitors to the natural phenomenon that is the Al Marneef Blowholes. Also identified as the Al Mughsail Blowholes, the water is believed to thrust upwards from a sea cave where seawater gathers and collects before bursting forth vertically due to internal pressure. Known as one of the best attractions for nature lovers, hikers will also enjoy the trek up the cave and its blowholes.
A base at Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara or any similar Salalah beach resort is also a great excuse for signing up for a tour on a traditional Omani boat. Cruising down the beach at a leisurely pace, the wooden boats are available for hire for short excursions around the coast as well as more lengthy journeys.
Fruit huts are ubiquitous all around Salalah and no other drink enjoys the popularity of the town's unique coconut drink. Although other fruit juices are also for sale at these fruit huts, it's the coconut drink that is served in the shell of a coconut that's winning over expats and tourists.
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A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
