Oman officially the Sultanate of Oman. Its is an Arab country in southwest Asia on the southeast coast of the Arabian Peninsula. It borders the United Arab Emirates on the northwest, Saudi Arabia Yemen on the southwest. The coast is formed by the Arabian Sea on the southeast and the Gulf of Oman on the northeast. The Madha and Musandam enclaves are surrounded by the UAE on their land borders, with the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman forming Mussandams coastal boundaries. In November 2010, The United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) listed Oman as the most-improved nation in last 40 years from among 135 countries worldwide. on the west and As soon as the car pulled away from Muscat's Seeb Int'l Airport, on to the open road, the pristine beauty of the Sultanate of Oman quickly enveloped me and it became evident that this was a going to be a trip to remember. The monolithic limestone mountains form the backdrop of a scenic journey through a country where vibrant cultures flourish in tandem with modernity in every region. Home to World Heritage sites, the rugged beauty of Oman is to be seen to be believed. Legend has it that Sinbad the sailor who regaled every school child with his adventures, sailed from the coastal town of Sohar.
Aptly described as the 'Soul of Arabia' by the award winning Oman Air campaign, Oman is a photographer's dream and a geologist's paradise. As diverse as nature possibly could be, coupled with surfing coastline and the unmatchable hospitality of the Omani people, there is a vast scope for leisure, adventure and entertainment. Commonly seen are the fascinating forts and watch towers, located strategically. Some of them such as the Fort Mirani and the Fort Jalali were built as early as 1586-87 A.D. and are located near the Sultan's palace in Muscat overlooking the Arabian Sea.
Oman also plays host to a range of International events including the Muscat Asian Beach Games, from 8-12 December 2010, the Tour of Oman featuring over 120 of the biggest names in Cycling, and the Muscat Festival which includes Oman's first Fashion Week and Food Festival, running from January to February.
The Sultanate is an unspoilt part of the world and one of the largest nesting sites for endangered Green turtles, with over 20,000 females returning annually to lay their eggs at Ras al Hadd. Literally meaning 'the cape' in Arabic, it is the easternmost point of the Arabian Peninsula and Oman is very proud that this is the point where the suns first rays touch land on rising. The waters around this area are popular for snorkelling, diving and fishing as it marks the convergence point of many currents resulting in an abundance of sea life. The rugged mountains plunging into blue fjords, beautiful green valleys called wadi's with gentle streams, clear blue green waters of the ocean, and the wind sculpted sand dunes combined with adrenaline pumping adventure sports such as surfing, dune bashing and rock climbing, give you mesmerising memories and magical experiences that leave you simply craving for more.
Not far behind is the shopping experience. While the modern Malls attract you with worlds best brands, the traditional Muttrah Souq in the heart of Muscat is a haven for souvenir hunters and antique collectors. Ranging from silver artifacts, the khanjar (dagger), carpets, perfumes, spices and dates, the souq is bustling with activity. One should not miss picking up the famous Frankincense from the local shops and the delicious Omani halwa.
Getting to Oman is made easy by convenient and comfortable Oman Air flights with flight time of just 2 hours and 15 minutes from Mumbai to Muscat. You are spoilt for choices when it comes to hotels, ranging from plush 5 star resorts and spas to 4 and 3 star hotels and apartments, to desert and mountain camps under the stars! Oman's modern network of roads and motorways are a pleasure to drive on.
However taxis or tourist vehicles are the best ways of getting around. The good time to visit Oman is between October and April when the temperatures vary between 25 and 30 degrees during the day and 17 and 19 degrees at night.
Oman exudes a strange charm casting a spell on you, drawing you closer and leaving you with a wish to return. A must on the itinerary of the evolved traveler Oman soothes your senses and you come back feeling enriched and refreshed ready to take on the world.
Oman Favourite Things to Do
Dolphin & Whale Watching
Dolphin Watching is a popular activity available through many tour operators in Oman. There is something very special about sailing alongside a school of playful dolphins and while it cannot be guaranteed that you will see any during a tour, it is more than likely that you will.
Over 20 types of whales and dolphins have been identified in the areas off the coast of Oman. You are more likely to see dolphins from October to May and whales are best spotted early morning and evening. A knowledgeable and responsible operator will enhance your experience and protect the sea life.
2. Mosque Tour
Mosques are naturally omnipotent in the landscape of Muslim Oman and while many are beautiful to admire from the outside, only one is officially available for visitors to tour inside. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is spectacular in its Islamic architecture and heaven for the photographer.
A knowledgeable guide will bombard you with facts and figures of the breathtaking interior and answer any questions you may have relating to Islam. This mosque is also important for housing an Islamic reference library containing a vast amount of information on Islamic science and culture. Strict rules regarding attire and opening times apply
Non-Muslim sightseers can visit the Sultan Qaboos Mosque according to days, prayer times and Islamic festivals. But generally, its open to visitors between 8am and 11am except on Thursday and Friday.
3. 4WD off-road
A spectacular off-road desert adventure awaits you in Oman. Experience the thrill of adrenaline-fuelled activities which include Dune Bashing and Wadi Bashing.
Enjoy the scenic mixed terrain of desert sand, natural spring waters and majestic mountains during the drive.
What goes up must come down, and what could be more exhilarating than coming down the soft tricky sands of a steep sand dune? Dune Bashing gives you the excitement you would hate to miss. In Oman sport is mostly practiced in the Wahiba Sands where the dunes are steep and sands are soft. Just sail your 4WD along the sand dunes. Know the ploy to glide along the treacherous sands other than just driving, and there you go for some serious fun! The fanciful golden Arab sands await you for a breathtaking experience. Some deserts camps like Nomadic Desert Camps; Desert Night Camps are ready to help you treasure this lifetime activity. Get the details about the camps in our website.
The pristine land of Oman holds lot more adventure you ever thought of. Wadi Bashing unlike Dune Bashing is a whacky experience. This is generally practiced along the river canyons in the mountains where the bed is dry and fills up only during infrequent downpour. A 4 WD drive on the off-roads of the country, Wadi Bashing is a bone shaking experience, as you drive along the dry river beds hitting the boulders and even splashing water as your car slink into small water pockets. Some of the few places where you can show your passion for the game are Wadi Tiwi, Mazara, Wadi Shab, Wadi Bani Khalid. Check out the list of tour operators in our site for guidance.
4. Turtle Watching
Some of the World’s most important nesting beaches are situated in Oman. Turtle breeding reserves are located in the Damaniyat islands, Ras Al Jinz, Masirah and Ras Al Hadd. To see a giant turtle lay her eggs on a beach in the dim light of dawn or in the middle of the night is a magical moment and you can experience this in a number carefully managed locations.
Conservation of the turtles’ nesting sites is of utmost importance in Oman and you will require a guide to take you to see the turtles in action. There are various types of accommodation available in the areas from campsites to basic air-conditioned rooms.
5. Hiking/Trekking
As rock climbing also demonstrates, Oman’s mountainous regions are often best explored on foot to appreciate hidden views of the spectacular scenery. Treks are available for every level of ability and tour operators can organise everything from a short walk in the wadis to a trek to the top of Jebal Akhdar, 2,400km above sea level.
Walks can take you through living or abandoned villages, date palm plantations and falaj systems and you can view the breathtaking ‘Grand Canyon’ of the Hajar Mountain range. You may even meet some of the friendly local people as you explore the area. Appropriate clothing, sunscreen and water are essential.
6. Camel Riding
Fancy a Lawrence of Arabia type of experience? Don’t miss out on all the fun. Try a camel ride into the glorious sand dunes with professional guides and you’re in for a thrill you will never forget. You can even accessorize your camel adventure with sand surfing and trips to nearby encampments. Various tour operators include short camel rides as part of their itinerary.
7. Diving
The waters surrounding Oman offer some of the most spectacular diving on the planet. You will also find them far less crowded than other diving areas, meaning you will see more fish than people. Another advantage is that the diving is available all throughout the year.
There are a number of dive schools offering lessons, both PADI and BSAC and experienced divers can even test their nerves with a night dive or a cave dive. Shipwrecks and coral reefs play host to a wide variety of marine life including turtles, stingrays moray eels and reef sharks. A dive permit from the ROP is necessary and available through the dive clubs.
8. Rock Climbing
The geography in Oman is a treat for rock climbers and the routes promise fantastic views of the scenery. Established routes traverse through the mountains and are open to various levels of climbers. Equipment can be hired for hours or days and the basics can be learned on an indoor wall before beginners brave the rock face itself.
Routes start off as close to Muscat as Wadi Adai, while a 4x4 is required to reach other routes such as Wadi Bani Auf, around two hours drive away. A short walk may also be necessary to reach the mountain routes. Deep Water Soloing (DWS) is possible for the brave-hearted
9. Bird watching
Due to the intense cultivation of plants and trees in the past 30 years, the avian population in The Sultanate has dramatically risen to over 450 different species, 30 of which are native to Oman. Many of these species are migratory between Africa and Asia.
Good spots to observe these birds are lagoons and beaches. The Oman Bird Group can give you more advice on where to go twitching or you can contact The Muscat Diving and Adventure Centre or African Sea Safaris to organise a bird watching trip. As with any off road trip, be properly prepared in terms of your equipment and supplies.
10. Horse Racing/Riding
Horse racing is traditional in Arabic countries and Oman is renowned for its pure-bred Arabian horses. Horse breeders in Oman have been careful to preserve pure blood lines resulting in consistently healthy and strong animals. The Oman Equestrian Foundation was established in the ‘80s who organise show jumping events during the winter months.
There are a number of riding schools offering lessons for new learners and the more experienced alike. Other services are available such as pleasure trips to local areas of beauty such as beaches and gardens and the Qurum Equestrian School offers a Pony Club for children. It is also possible to keep your horses at some of the stables.
By Clara Fernandes
Email Id : clara_fernandes08@yahoo.com
