Nizwa: A Step Back in Time
From Muscat, I drove north to Nizwa, a historic fort town nestled in the heart of Oman. It’s a great base for exploring the surrounding mountains, wadis, and traditional villages. The Nizwa Fort, one of the oldest continuously occupied settlements in Oman, offers an immersive experience of Oman’s history. The fort itself is like a mini-fortified town, and you can even stay inside it! I spent half a day there, but it's easy to spend more time exploring.
Another highlight of Nizwa is the Oman New Age Museum. With its impressive modern architecture, it’s an informative stop where you can easily lose track of time.
Jabreen Castle and Bahla Fort: Majestic Monuments
Driving west from Nizwa, I made my way to Jabreen Castle, one of Oman’s most beautiful castles. However, the real gem for me was Bahla Fort. As the largest fort in Oman, it truly lived up to the country’s nickname, “Land of a Thousand Forts.” Bahla Fort, which sits at the foot of the Jebel Akhdar highlands, is one of the four UNESCO-listed forts in Oman. Its sheer scale and historical significance made it a fascinating stop.
Old Al Hamra: A Glimpse of Authentic Omani Life
An hour further, I arrived at the picturesque village of Old Al Hamra. It was, by far, the highlight of my trip. This village, tucked at the base of the mountains and wadi, offers a rare glimpse into traditional Omani life. The living history museum, Bait al Safah, was one of the most engaging parts of my visit. The village is filled with ruins, and you can walk through the preserved homes that tell the story of Oman’s past. It's a must-visit if you want to understand the authentic Omani culture.
I had hoped to make it to Misfat al Abriyyin and Bald Sayt in the mountains, but unfortunately, I ran short on time. Those places are on my list for my next trip!
More to Explore in Oman
Though I didn’t have time to see everything, Oman has so much more to offer. You can spend days in the desert, staying in luxury camps in the dunes, or relax in seaside resorts along the eastern and southern shores. I’ve been invited by my Omani friends to explore these regions next time, and they’ve assured me that I won’t want to miss them.
Oman is undoubtedly a destination I will revisit. It's a country that offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. So, if you're ever in the area or looking for a stopover destination, I highly recommend adding Oman to your travel list.
In the meantime, I’ll be planning my next stopover in Oman on my way to India later this year. Who knows what new experiences I’ll uncover? Stay tuned for more travel stories – I’m committed to sharing them with you this time!
Let me know if you’ve been to Oman or have any other recommendations for future trips. Would love to hear from fellow travelers!
