Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
NIZWA & THE MOUNTAINS
This dramatic, mountainous region is one of the biggest tourist destinations in Oman, and
for good reason. The area has spectacular scenery, including Jebel Shams (Oman's highest
mountain), Wadi Ghul (the Grand Canyon of Arabia) and Jebel Akhdar (the fruit bowl of
Oman). In addition, some of the country's best forts can be seen in Nizwa, Bahla and Jab-
rin.
Many of the sights from Nizwa to Jabrin can be managed on a long day trip from Mus-
cat, and all tour companies in the capital organise such trips. The region deserves more than
just a fleeting visit, however, especially if adding 4WD excursions into the jebel (moun-
tain) .
With a 4WD, an exciting three-day round trip from Muscat can be made via Nizwa,
crossing over the mountains from Al-Hamra and descending to Rustaq and the Batinah
Plain.
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Nizwa
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The historic town of Nizwa, two hours from Muscat along a good highway, lies on a plain
surrounded by a thick palm oasis and some of Oman's highest mountains. It forms a natural
gateway to the historic sites of Bahla and Jabrin, and for excursions up Jebel Akhdar and
Jebel Shams.
Only half a century ago, British explorer Wilfred Thesiger was forced to steer clear of
Nizwa: his Bedouin companions were convinced that he wouldn't survive the ferocious
conservatism of the town and refused to let him enter. He'd have been amazed to find that
Nizwa is now the second-biggest tourist destination in Oman. The seat of factional imams
until the 1950s, Nizwa, or the 'Pearl of Islam' as it's sometimes called, is still a conservat-
ive town, however, and appreciates a bit of decorum from its visitors.
Sights
Nizwa Fort FORT
 
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