Exploring the City of Nizwa
Located in the heart of Oman, Nizwa is a city of timeless beauty, allowing visitors to explore its hidden gems. From the iconic Nizwa fort and its breathtaking views to the bustling souq and the many small, traditional shops, Nizwa is a city that has much to offer. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and stunning desert oasis, Nizwa is a place that should not be missed. From camel rides to tasty traditional cuisine, this traveler's guide will help you explore the best of this ancient city and uncover its secrets. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and join us on a journey to discover the hidden gems of Nizwa.
Exploring the Nizwa Fort
The Nizwa fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Oman's most famous landmark. Built-in the 17th century and located in the heart of the city, this stunning fort is a must-see for any visitor to Nizwa. Although it's open daily, you should visit between October and April to avoid the extreme summer heat. Entry to the fort is free, and you can explore the impressive architecture and view the iconic Omani architecture. If you are feeling energetic, you can climb to the top of the fort on foot by way of 369 stairs or take a ride in the mechanical lift. Once at the top, you can take in the impressive views of the city, the nearby mountains, and the endless desert. The fort is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm.
Discovering the Nizwa Souq
The Nizwa Souq is an ancient market in a beautiful, winding maze of traditional shops selling everything from spices and traditional Omani garments to souvenirs and jewelry. The souq is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and is free to explore. You can also enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants hidden within the souq. The Nizwa souq is a must-see attraction in Nizwa and is one of the city's hidden gems.
Exploring the Traditional Shops
While exploring the Nizwa souq, you will undoubtedly stumble across traditional shops selling various Omani items. The shops are decorated in traditional Omani architecture and are usually run by Omani families, selling everything from spices and incense to fabrics and traditional Omani garments, jewelry, and souvenirs. You can also explore the traditional shops outside the souq, including the Traditional Handicraft Centre.
Enjoying a Camel Ride
If you visit Nizwa between March and October, you can enjoy a camel ride and explore the desert oasis. The ride will last around 2 hours, and you can visit the dunes. You can also enjoy a guided tour of the desert, visiting the nearby farms, where dates and other crops are grown.
Trying Traditional Cuisine
The heart of Nizwa's cuisine is dated, and you can try various delicious dishes made with dates, including the traditional Omani dish, surf. Other recommended words include biryani, jahlee, and fahfu. If you want to try something very local, you can always try the Omani version of burgers and fries, known as frankfurters.
Visiting the Nizwa Oasis
The desert oasis in Nizwa is one of the hidden gems of this ancient city. This oasis and palm grove is located just outside the city and is a must-visit for any visitor to Nizwa. You can walk through the oasis and see the traditional irrigation system used to water the palm trees. The oasis is open daily from 6 am to 8 pm.
Hiking in the Mountains
You can enjoy the stunning views of Nizwa from the mountains surrounding the city. You can hike to the top of Jabal al Akhdar, the highest peak in Oman, or visit the nearby Jabal Shams.
Taking a Tour of the City
If you are short on time and want to see as much as possible, you can tour the city. The Nizwa city tour lasts around 3 hours and includes the Nizwa fort, souq, and a visit to the Nizwa oasis. The tour guide will also provide helpful information about the history and culture of Nizwa. The tour costs 12 Omani rials (OMR) per person and can be booked at the Nizwa tourist office.
Conclusion
Nizwa is a city of timeless beauty, rich history, and stunning architecture. The city is home to the famous Nizwa fort and the desert oasis, and it's a must-visit for any traveler to Oman. This traveler's guide will help you discover the hidden gems of Nizwa, including the Nizwa oasis, the traditional shops, and the many stunning architecture. Nizwa is a place that should be noticed and is worth the visit.
