If you feel like going on an outdoor adventure, A’Dakhiliya is the place to be. Get out of your rut, Kabayan, and see this innermost governorate of the Oman Sultanate. A’Dakhiliyah means the Interior because it is surrounded by land. The highest mountain, the Jebel Shams, along with the mountainous plateau called Jebel Alkhadar, is located in this region.
There are many things you can explore in this land-locked province’s eight districts which are: Adam, Al Hamra, Bahla, Bidbid, Izki, Manah, Nizwa and Samail. The following are the most famous scenic spots, where you can take panoramic pictures to share with your families back home:
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Famous Attractions to Visit in A’Dakhiliyah, Oman
Check Out the Nizwa Fort
One of the most popular destinations in this region is the Nizwa Fort, which is right next to Nizwa Souk. You will be hard-pressed to miss it with its imposing cylindrical tower. It is considered as a living legend the documents the way Omani people lived life during ancient times. It is a testament to their craftsmanship and hardworking attitude. It has underlying structures that date as far back as the twelfth century, making it one of the oldest forts in all of Oman.
Visit Jabreen Castle
You must drive through a beautiful palm oasis to see your next destination, which is the lovely Jabreen Castle. This is considered an architectural masterpiece, with its interiors full of traditional crafts and vibrant mural designs that depict the unique Omani culture.
Drive to the Birkat Al Mouz
This unique place will make you smile because its name stands for Banana Pool. It’s aptly named because the scenic destination of the old Muscat-Nizwa road is dotted with vast banana plantations. The Birkat Al Mouz is famed for being the gateway to another popular destination called the Saiq Plateau. At the heart of the village is the must-see Bait Al Redidah Castle, where you can take beautiful photos to share with your FB friends.
Explore the Salut Ruins
These ancient ruins are rich in history as it dates back to the beginning of the settlement in Oman. There are many attractions to explore, like an old castle and a beehive tomb. You can trek in both to truly discover how people in the past lived their lives.
Go Traditional at Misfat Al Abryeen
This is a traditional Omani village that sits on the side of a mountain. It can be easily reached by a vehicle from Al Hamra. You can get the full feel of this quaint town by taking a walking tour of the terraced farms. On top of that, you can explore the mud-brick structures and observe how the locals go on about their daily lives. This will give you an in-depth view of small village life.
Visit Falaj Daris and Al Khataman
This is a destination that you must not forget because it is considered a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2006. These well-known irrigation systems were constructed in 500AD. What’s more impressive is that they are still being used to this very day. Both rely on the force of gravity to harness the water from underground springs and use it for irrigation of the surrounding fields.
Get to Know Fanja
You can smoothly go on a road trip to Fanja because it’s located only 25km from Muscat. Fanja is an alluring town that is surrounded by an oasis of date palms. In its heart is a traditional souk, where you can meet locals. On top of that, you can trek around town and take a peek at the abandoned traditional houses, which all tell an exciting story of their former occupants.
Find the Hasat Bin Sult
A series of petroglyphs carved on a gargantuan rock, the Hasat Bin Sult is located between Al Hamra and Jebel Shams. You may find it quite tricky to spot this, but if you do come at the right time of the day, you can see this new carving of four human figurines on the rock’s main face. These carvings are three thousand years old, possessing a hypnotic allure that captivates anyone privileged enough to see them.
See Diana’s Point at Al Jebel Al Akhdar
If you’re a fan of watching royalty, Diana’s Point is a must-visit for it is named after the late Princess Diana and pays tribute to her life. Located at the very top of the Saiq Plateau, you can get a panoramic glimpse of the quaint villages, terraced farms, and the numerous fruit orchard.
Find your Way to Bidbid Castle
This 16th-century old castle has been beautifully restored into its shining, shimmering, splendid glory. You can easily spot this from the Nizwa highway. It is worth the drive because it is nestled in a lush date palm oasis. On top of that, you can see a winding falaj or waterway running through it. Be sure to stop and take a picture.
Hike the Jebel Shams and Al Jebel Al Akhdar
You should get some outdoor exercise by hiking the Jebel Shams, which gives stunning views of the Wagi Ghul. The latter is known as Oman’s version of the majestic Grand Canyon. You can also easily hike Al Jebel Al Akhdar with its cooler weather and promising views of terraced farms.
Do Caving in Al Hoota
If there is one thing that you must not miss, it is exploring the Al Hoota Cave, which is located at the foothills of the Al Hajar Mountains. Guided tours are provided through this must-see two million-year-old cave with its splendid natural displays of stalactites and stalagmites.
As you can see, even if it’s very far from the coast, A’Dakhiliyah is worth visiting. With its beautiful mountain views and terraces filled with roses, date palms, pomegranates, and the like, touring this region is a feast for your eyes.