Joanna James
As the capital of the Dhofar Province in Oman and the 3rd largest city in the Sultanate, Salalah presents intrepid travellers with plenty of reason to smile about on the back of there being a myriad of things to do and experiences to embrace.
Should spending time within the wonderful outdoors that the city lays claim to be top priority, then it would be prudent on your behalf to schedule your visit to coincide with the Khareef Season. Generally, occurring from June to September, the mentioned season is unique to Salalah. Herein, Salalah’s landscapes break out into a lush green paradise with cool climes, mist-shrouded mountains and free-flowing cascades all contributing to the appeal of the city.
From shimmering coastlines, towering mountain ranges to picturesque wadis that dot the landscape, Salalah will surely whet the appetite of the curious explorer for there is much to do and many places to be at in this part of the Sultanate of Oman. Therefore, fans of hiking as well as off-road trips will encounter ample space in which to unleash their adventurous selves.
The passionate beachgoer will find it a near impossibility to leave Salalah’s beaches behind for the city boasts a slew of such attractions, each offering its fair share of appeal to come into contact with. Be it the secluded gem of Masood Beach, the tranquil stretches encompassing Fazayah Beach or the rugged beauty showcased across every inch of Al Mughsail Beach, you are in for an absolute treat. In fact, with reference to the latter, you will be well placed to explore a stunning collection of blowholes which reach up to 30 metres and a rocky overhang titled Al Marneef Cave if you opt to stay at Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara which is a popular Salalah beach resort.
The city’s pristine coastlines are havens of laidback living and thrill-seeking excursions that will easily have you moving from beach walks to snorkelling expeditions in no time whatsoever. Essentially, marine life afficionados can pick and choose from a range of water sporting activities to while away the hours with such as sailing, diving and snorkelling. Before long, you will be swimming with dolphins and observing the behavioural patterns of gigantic whales who frequent the seas off Salalah.
The city’s much admired cultural identity has been shaped by ancient crafts that continue to be given life to by skilled artisans together with a remarkable collection of heritage sites, some of which have gained recognition as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Worthy of mention is the Sumhuram Archaeological Park which successfully portrays traces of one of the oldest civilisations the world has come to know of that in turn, operated as a port for the frankincense industry. Next up is the sought-after Al Haffa Souq where you may spend time getting acquainted with its winding paths that give way to traders eager to sell you their buckhorn, attar, frankincense and traditional Omani kuma caps.
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.
