Joanna James
From touring mysterious caves, and taking an exhilarating dip in the world’s most stunning sinkhole, to spending a memorable evening in a local village, the Sultanate of Oman has much to offer intrepid visitors. Here are some of the most interesting and unusual things to do while on a visit.
A typical Omani Village is characterised by ancient stone houses and sloping agricultural terraces – making spending a night in one, a truly memorable experience. One such village that routinely attracts tourists is Misfat Al Abriyeen. Not only does this little Omani hamlet have ancient houses built out of solid rock, but it also has an elevated viewing platform that offers dramatic views of the valley below and the surrounding mountain ranges.
According to local folklore, it is believed that the sinkhole was formed when a shooting star fell on Earth. Boasting a unique shape, dramatic cliffs, a unique erosion of rocks, and its signature turquoise blue waters, the Bimmah Sinkhole is considered to be one of the most beautiful sinkholes in the world! It’s a great spot to head to on a blistering hot day in the desert for a refreshing swim! Located between the sultry coastal towns of Bimmah and Dibab, the sinkhole sits to the east of Muscat. Most Oman luxury hotels such as the likes of Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar, would be more than happy to arrange for a visit on the requests of the guests.
To visit a rose water distillery and to learn how Oman’s famed rose water is extracted, consider planning a visit to Jabal Al Akhdar – one of Oman’s highest mountain ranges (it sits at a whopping 2000 meters above sea level). Distinctly lush and covered with a carpet of damask roses bushes sitting alongside juniper berry and pomegranate trees, Jabal Al Akhdar is renowned for its pleasantly cool climes in stark contrast to the scorching heat experienced down in the Omani desert.
Oozing centuries of history and rich culture, Bahla Gate and Fort, according to legend is believed to have been built in one night to protect the city from an attack by evil genies. Today, the mysterious location is considered to be a UNESCO World Heritage site and an architectural masterpiece. Interestingly for those who are interested in the spooky side of things, it was also listed as one of the most haunted cities by National Geographic.
Estimated to be roughly two million years old, Al Hoota Cave was only recently opened to visitors. The cave complex boasts a rich ecosystem that includes four connecting lakes. Interestingly in 1980, during cave explorations, it was discovered that the central lake is home to an extremely rare species of blind fish. During your visit, you will get the opportunity to take in the cave complex via a boat with a special light-controlled lighting system so as not to disrupt wildlife that lives in the Al Hoota Cave.
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.
