Located on the edge of the Arab Peninsula, Oman is a beautiful country with exotic destinations, architectural wonders, rich heritage and humble local folk. From the clear water beaches and vast desert stretches to the scenic mountain peaks, Oman gives you a glimpse of nature in its every form. One of the cleanest countries, Oman is also an ideal location for disconnecting with the outside world and spending some time focusing on your inner self. Here, you will get to smell frankincense, eat authentic Omani food and meet some of the kindest people. If you are planning to travel to Oman, here are 6 places that you must visit.
# MuscatOman's capital, Muscat, is where most vacationists land when they first visit the country. Located on the Gulf of Oman, this city is nestled between deserts and mountains. Unlike other major Gulf cities, Muscat has retained its cultural value and Bedouin vibes. With various historical sites, Muscat charms all the visitors with its subdued elegance and rich heritage. Muscat has it all - the forts, enticing shopping locations, majestic palaces, museums, best of contemporary architecture, and a harbor that looks upon the renowned Qasr Al Alam Royal Palace. This is one of the best places in Oman for families as well as for friends.
Mutrah Souk is a famous market that will tempt you with its Arabian gems, silver jewelry and traditional Omani outfits. Apart from all the grand Mosques and historical buildings, Muscat is also known for its beaches. Shatti Al Qurum and Sifah Beach are must-visit spots for some much-needed relaxation. If you visit between January and February, the Muscat festival will blow your mind with a big fair with circus performances, theatre shows, camel races, educational programs, contests, etc.
# SalalahSalalah is home to Sultan Qaboos, the reigning king of Oman since 1970 and is known for its diverse, picturesque elements. You will get a chance to visit clear beaches ideal for snorkelling and mountains that will remind you of a lush green forest. Haffa, the old town, has a lot to offer with its older architecture and markets. Salalah is known for its worldwide known monsoon festival, also known as Khareef. From mid-July to late August, the city turns into a relaxing oasis as the rain showers provide a much-needed reprieve from the Middle-Eastern summers. Khareef festival is known for its vibrant, artistic and cultural elements. There's popular Omani food, music, traditional clothes stalls, international programs for foreigners and a lot more as these is the top cities in Oman.
# Wahiba Sands Experience the Middle East at its best with the rolling sand dunes and golden hues at Wahiba Sands, also known as Sharqiya Sands. This desert stretch is where the Bedu people live and tourists can get a taste of the true, nomadic Omani culture. As the sun goes down, the sand dunes turn from rich yellow to a coppery orange shade, showing you the best of nature. Here, you can experience the thrill of sand sports, dune bashing, overnight camping, trekking and other possible activities.
# Misfat Al AbriyeenVisit Oman's mud village - Misfat Al Abriyeen that is one of the rare old villages still inhabited. Located in the heart of the country, you will find this tiny village enveloped somewhere in the higher ranges of Jebel Sham mountain range. Here you will find stone buildings in various hues of orange and brown, that provide this place with scenic, mountain valley-type vistas. Large boulders hold the homes together and the hardened mud bricks give the village an offbeat architectural look. Main attractions include the Jebel Shams balcony walk, verdant gardens, and maze-like passages between houses as old as 300 years.
# Masirah IslandIf you are looking for a more secluded and intimate destination on your Oman trip, Masirah Island is an ideal spot with some of the best tourist attractions around. Home to the Omani airbase, Masirah is known for watersports, turtles, wildlife and history. Here, more than 30,000 turtles arrive on the coast each year for hatching season and on the other hand, there's a port where you will find abandoned shipwrecks. Between the high mountains and tranquil coastline, you will find that this place forms a perfect smalltown picture with numerous tiny houses and shops.
# BahlaLocated in northern Oman, Bahla is also known as Madinat Al Sehr, or the City of Magic. Bahla is considered a mysterious town due to its centuries-old myths, legends and superstitions. Not very popular or grand, Bahla is an upcoming tourist destination that has a lot of potential for any observant traveler. Also declared as a UNESCO world heritage site, this town is famous for its pottery and silver artifacts. Bahla Fort dates back to the 13th century when the entire region was under the rule of the Banu Nebhan tribe. Here, you will find palm trees, vernacular houses, intricate Islamic architecture, a market, and a mosque. You also get to experience dolphin watching, bike tours, hiking, and camel rides. Visit the Bahla souq for some souvenirs before you move on to the next destination on your Oman tour.