Oman - A hidden Gem
I would definitely urge to travel to this lesser visited country and explore it yourself!
Here are some things about Oman and a few tips to make your trip simpler.
The currency of Oman is Omani Rial (1 Omani Rial = ₹ 192 approx.)
Oman is 1589 kms away from Mumbai and it takes about 3 hours to reach by air. You need a visa and passport to enter the country.
The best time to visit Oman is between October to April when the temperature is comparatively low. I visited the country during Diwali and the climate was nice.
Muttrah Souq
Souq means ‘market’ in Arabic. Muttrah Souq is one of the oldest souks found in the Arab peninsula. Muttrah Souq is regarded as the shopper’s paradise. You can definitely take home a piece of Omani tradition. One can find a variety of items like silver jewellery, textiles, dry fruits, and artifacts. Frankincense, available at this market, is famous for its fragrance. I bought saffron from this market and it was of very good quality. Shopkeepers are open for bargaining except for jewellery which is sold as per weight and is made of pure silver.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Sultan Qaboos mosque, Muscat is one of the largest mosques in the world. It is regarded as a gift from the Sultan to the country and its citizens. The Mosque is embellished in beautiful, colorful mosaic patterns. The chandelier located in the centre of the men's prayer hall holds 6,00,000 shining bright Swarovski diamonds and is plated in 24 carat gold. Its weight is 8,500 kilograms.
It is the one of the only mosques in Oman that allows tourists (people belonging to different religions as well). However children under the age of 10 are not permitted in the prayer hall. While visiting, one must make sure to wear appropriate clothing and one cannot eat, sleep or use cell phones in the prayer hall.
People at the mosque are very friendly and offer free kahwa and dates at the Islam centre located in the mosque’s premise.
Bimmah Sinkhole
Bimmah Sinkhole is one of the most stunning places I have ever been to! It
is just one and a half hour drive south from Muscat. It is a water filled depression in limestone, structurally a sinkhole. The water here is turquoise in colour.
Swimming is permitted but visitors are expected to dress modestly. You can also get a free pedicure because the small fish living in the water are the Garra fish that nibble your feet during a pedicure!
Cliff diving is a very famous activity done here but it is quite dangerous so please be cautious. Don’t forget to click lots of pictures because it's a beautiful place!
Al Alam Palace
Built in 1972, it is one of the six residences of the Sultan. It is generally used to receive distinguished guests. The place stands in the centre of a long pedestrian path surrounded by garden beds and government buildings.
The palace is an amazing piece of architecture which showcases flamboyant Islamic culture. Visitors are allowed to view the palace from outside the gates. I visited it at night when the palace’s gold and turquoise pillars are gorgeously illuminated. The palace looks stunning.
Muttrah Corniche
Muttrah Corniche is a curved waterside area, a three kilometer stretch with waterfront restaurants and cafes. Oman port and harbour can be seen from this area. I loved the fact that here we can rent cycles and even go cycling. The view is amazing. I recommend wearing comfortable footwear so that you can walk a lot but if you are not very fond of walking, a long car ride will just be perfect for you.
Other places to visit in Oman:
Wadi Ghul (Omani Grand Canyon) - Wadi Ghul is the deepest canyon in the Middle East and travelling by car is the most convenient option. The view from the top is spectacular.
Jebel Shams - Jebel Shams is the highest mountain peak of Oman
Oman Avenues Mall, Muscat - It is Oman’s largest mall covering a span of 72,000 square metres. It has almost all brand outlets, an indoor amusement park and a huge food court making it very exciting.
Some tips that might be useful:
I would highly recommend eating shawarma (a roll consisting of meat and vegetables), falafel (deep fried patty made of chickpeas),Omani kahwa (flavourful coffee with saffron, rose water and cinnamon added to it ) and Omani Halwa (traditional sweet jelly dessert), all of them are delicious. Omani dates are Oman’s specialty.
Carry sunscreen, scarf and caps because it can get very hot sometimes.
Respect and be mindful of the Omani culture
Arabic is the official language in Oman however you can converse in English as well. Many people living there are also fluent in Hindi.
Though there are various currency exchange counters, I would suggest exchanging Rupees to Omani Rial in India itself and keeping Omani currency handy, incase of any emergencies!
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