Joanna James
When it comes to things to do in Oman, there would be several entrancing places to visit, such as Muscat, Jebel Akhdar, Birkat Al Mouz, Nizwa, Ras Al Jinz, Al Hazm Castle and Rustaq Fort. You will find each has something unique to offer as described below.
A great place at which to commence your tour of Oman's noteworthy attractions would be the country's capital, Muscat. You would find that the city of Muscat would offer a pleasant contrast from the skyscraper-filled cities of other Gulf nations. Make sure to visit the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque which would undoubtedly impress the visitor with its proportions and features. Also, make sure to experience alluring attractions like the National Museum, Royal Opera House, Al Jalali and Al Mirani Forts, Al Alam Palace, Mutrah Corniche and the Mutrah Souq.
You would find the engrossing Green Mountain or Jebel Akhdar amidst the lofty Al Hajar Mountains, an impressive range that extends for no less than 700 km. At Jebel Akhdar, you would encounter some of the most attractive montane landscapes to be found in the entirety of Oman. As you might expect, this locality would be an entrancing place for the nature lover. Another nearby attraction would be Wadi Bani Habib, an intriguing abandoned village featuring crumbling mudstone buildings.
The historically significant town of Nizwa would be a magnet in Oman for culture and history lovers. Here, you would encounter an eye-catching collection of souks, minarets and other traditional buildings scattered around an impressive fort. Many foreign visitors take the opportunity to experience this town where the splendid Nizwa Fort would take pride of place. Another attraction would be the absorbing Nizwa Cattle Market which would take place on Fridays.
One of the most captivating wildlife experiences that you could enjoy in Oman awaits at the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve; here, you have the chance to observe innumerable threatened green turtles making their way to the beach from the ocean expanses to deposit their eggs. Keep in mind, to visit this secluded beach you would be obliged to join a guided tour which will be well worth your time. A hotel in Sur Oman to consider staying at and from which you could easily visit this reserve would be Sur Plaza Hotel.
Your tour of Oman's attractions would be incomplete without experiencing the famed 'Rustaq Loop'; as you make your way along this drive, you would have the opportunity to encounter picturesque wadis, handsome forts and other attractions including a hot spring. Taking a prominent place on this drive would be the three absorbing castles of Al Rustaq, Al Hazm and Nakhal. You will find that the Al Hazm and Al Rustaq forts have been refurbished and would offer splendid views over the surroundings below.
Another absorbing attraction that you would find in the environs of the Al Hajar Mountains would be the picturesque village known as Birkat Al Mouz, an attractive hamlet bordered by date palm and banana plantations. Many visitors take the opportunity to make a stopover at this village to admire the sight of the quaint traditional buildings whilst travelling to Jebel Akhdar. While at Birkat Al Mouz, you can additionally take in the sight of the irrigation channel known as Falaj Al Khatmain.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
