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The Unique History of Muscat, Oman
Did you know that once upon a time, Muscat and Oman were actually considered separate parts of the region? Separated by the Hajar mountains, Muscat referred to the exterior or the coastal region, and Oman referred to the interior region on the other side of the mountains. Now, Muscat is considered to be part of wider Oman and is home to one of the biggest modern cities in the region.
The city of Muscat was an early global trading port, and the Portuguese seized it to take advantage of this trade. You can explore the legacy of the long-gone Portuguese occupation by visiting the forts in Muscat—Al Jalali Fort and Al Mirani Fort. Wander around the old stone walls and transport yourself to a different time in Muscat.
Despite its rich history, Muscat has had a renaissance since Sultan Qaboos’ reign starting in 1970. You can now explore the modern infrastructure of the roads, ports and buildings invested in by Sultan Qaboos, alongside the amazing historical sites and natural places in Muscat and the surrounding area.
Visit The Grand Mosque Oman
When you first see the Grand Mosque in Muscat, Oman, you are sure to be taken away by its beauty. One of the mosque’s crowning jewels is the second-largest hand-loomed Iranian carpet in the world, a labour of love woven by 600 women over four years. The Grand Mosque Oman is not just a place of worship for 20,000 worshippers but also a living testament to the harmonious blend of spirituality and modern architecture.
Not only is the Grand Mosque Oman a great symbol of Islam that remains at the heart of Muscat’s culture today, but it is also a symbol of the generosity of Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who ordered the construction of the mosque as a gift to the people. Sultan Qaboos bin Said had a great impact on the culture of Oman, raising living standards, development and infrastructure to help make Oman into the wonderful country it is today.
The Beautiful Nature of Muscat, Oman
While it’s easy to get lost in the modernity of a city like Muscat, there are still some wonderful natural places to be found in the area. The best area to head to to explore the westernmost edge of Muscat is a place called Qurum. This is the home of Qurum National Park and one of the most beautiful places in all of Muscat, Oman.
Relax At Qurum National Park And Beach
Taking a walk through Qurum National Park is like truly being able to get away from it all. As you take the pathways at a leisurely pace, you will be able to soak in the grassy surroundings and the fountains that spread throughout the park. Inhale deep as you walk through Sultain Qaboo’s Rose Garden. Just a short distance from Qurum National Park is Qurum Beach, yet another stunning natural place in Muscat, Oman, where you can walk amongst the sands and take in the refreshing sea air.
Escape To The Hajar Mountains
If you’re willing to take a short trip just outside of Muscat, you can also enjoy the scenery of the Hajar Mountains. A walk or drive up the mountains into the mountain air is a truly magical experience only a short way outside of Muscat. As you incline up into the jagged rocks of the Hajar Mountains, you can feel the world below you slipping away as you climb up high into the clouds.
Running along the northern coast of Oman, the Hajar mountains give you a unique insight into the history and culture of Oman. With many ancient villages, tombs and Falaj irrigation systems up in the mountains, you can discover an insight into traditional Omani life.
Visiting the Hajar Mountains will also allow you to connect to the local people’s close relationship with the natural world as you observe the wild fruit trees, including olive, fig, pomegranate and apricot trees, as well as some of the local wildlife such as vultures, gazelle and lizard species.
Explore Nature Outside of Muscat
There are a number of beautiful natural places for you to explore by taking only a short trip outside of Muscat itself. The most magnificent of these are the Wadis that are so prevalent throughout the region.
The Wadis of Oman are known to the locals as being a little slice of natural paradise. With date palms, lush green vegetation, and crystal clear pools for swimming, visiting a Wadi is a truly heavenly experience for Omanis and tourists alike.
If you decide to stay in Muscat during your visit, then booking a Wadi experience with Travel Indigenous is one of the best things you can possibly do to bring the magic of natural Oman to your trip. With trips to Wadi Tiwi, Wadi Shab, and Wadi Bani Khalid, all leaving from locations Muscat and hosted by a native guide, Travel Indigenous experiences will give you the opportunity to connect with the nature and the local culture and customs of Oman in a whole new way.
Wander Along The Muttrah Corniche
With the rugged mountains, an ancient fort, and the ocean stretching out in front of you, Muttrah Corniche is a must-visit trip when you head to Muscat, which may be one of the most stunning places in all of Oman.
Strolling along the Muttrah Corniche, you can feel the cool air blowing in from the clear, blue waters. Enjoy watching the birds circling overhead as you spot traditional dhows – Omani wooden boats – in the distance. In the centre of old-time Muscat, a walk along the Corniche makes for a way to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of one of the most beautiful parts of Muscat.
Visiting the Muttrah Corniche is one of the best ways to discover the local culture of Muscat. The Corniche’s maritime history and history of global trade are still deeply embedded in the heart of the people of Muscat today. Take a trip to the fish market, or try a delicious traditional seafood meal at a restaurant on the Corniche to immerse yourself in the close relationship the people of Muscat have with the ocean. With the ancient Portuguese fort sitting alongside bustling Muscat shops and restaurants, it is clear to see how the long culture of traditional Muscat blends into the daily life of local Omanis today.
Visit The Muttrah Souk
As you take your relaxing stroll along the Muttrah Corniche, you will soon stumble upon the amazing sights, sounds and smells of the Muttrah Souk. A world away from the modern hustle and bustle of the Muscat malls, a walk through the Muttrah Souk is like stepping back in time in the best way possible.
This traditional market will allow you to explore the history of Muscat’s trade and even purchase goods for yourself. Here, the Omani trade that has thrived for thousands of years lives on. You can get up close to the tradesmen of Muscat and explore their wares. Local artists and crafters sell textiles, clothing and jewellery, all linked to the traditional crafts of the people of Oman. It is also your chance to truly experience the culture of the spice trade in Muscat. You could even take home some local Frankincense – the spice that put Oman on the map and is still so much a part of Omani life today.
Discover The Local Culture Of Muscat
Alongside its status as a modern city of Oman, Muscat is particularly well known for its port and trade industries. This means that shipbuilding is an important part of the local culture of Muscat. Take a trip down to the Muttrah Corniche to view the traditional Omani boats, including the Al Ghanja and the Al Badan. These traditional wooden boats have now become an iconic symbol of Muscat and Omani culture.
Being a port town also means Muscat is well known for its seafood. Take yourself to one of the beautiful Corniche restaurants, take in the stunning ocean views, and try some of the local seafood dishes made with local produce surrounding Muscat. Mashuai, or kingfish with rice, is a particular favourite here and a must-try when you visit to get a taste of the local cuisine.
Exploring Muscat and Oman
One of the best ways to explore Muscat and the wider Omani area is by booking a guided tour. Oman tours from Muscat can allow you to connect with native tour guides who will be able to offer you an insight into the deeper Omani culture as you immerse yourself in the places you visit.
Travel Indigenous offers a number of Oman tours from Muscat, which allow you the perfect way to explore the region surrounding the city. Every single one of the tours is taken by a native tour guide who will tell you about the Omani culture and way of living.
Our Oman tours from Muscat offer special insight into the wonderful natural places surrounding Muscat. So, jump into a tour car and take a hike through Wadi Tiwi or take a refreshing swim in the crystal waters of Wadi Bani Khalid to get a real sense of Oman outside the city.
