Having spent nearly a month in Oman and focusing predominantly on Muscat, I have been able to explore extensively. Here are a few ideas, besides the popular places you will already know about including the Mutrah Souq, Grand Mosque and fish market. Welcome to my list of 5 free things to do in Muscat Oman that I find particularly unique.
Qurum Park Waterfall
The first time I spotted this was from the back seat of an OTaxi ride. I knew right away it needed further investigation. The last thing you might expect to see inside a desert city is a truly massive waterfall! Head over to Qurum Nature Park, an extensive green space filled with a plant nursery, horse stables and so much more.
At one side, across the parking lot, you cannot miss the soaring falls and water spray. A path leads upwards to a large viewing platform at the top, and it’s a rush to stand there and see the water pour down the slope. Bring a picnic, escape from the heat, this park is huge and the perfect oasis in the capital city for tranquility.
Portuguese Towers Big & Small
Scattered throughout the mountains surrounding the oldest part of Muscat are numerous small watchtowers. These were built by the Portuguese centuries ago, and were used by villagers to communicate with each other. If danger was spotted, one would light a fire, to be seen by the next one, that would then light their fire and so on. Today many have been reconstructed and act as an historical beacon on the rugged landscape.
The large towers are what visitors will see when exploring the area of Mutrah. One such is Sur Al Lawatia Tower, tucked in the old part of the city behind the souk. There is another currently undergoing renovation right on the corniche and yet a third that I discovered that you can actually climb to the top of. This one is located deeper into the city behind the souk and includes a portion of fortified walls and an old gate.
Al Alam Palace
A special place to visit is in the next Old City over from Mutrah. I walked there in 45 minutes and it’s a scenic stroll by the seaside. The palace itself was first constructed 200 years ago on this site. The current day building dates from 1972 is one of many residences of the Sultan.
Visitors can explore the vast marble courtyard in front of the palace and the gardens, but no entry is granted into the palace itself. What I admire is the understated beauty and modesty of the structure. It represents the overall feeling I get everywhere I travel in Oman. There is no garish and extravagant construction, instead everything is humble, extraordinarily beautiful and opulent but in a soft and gentle manner.
Arches Fountain
A lush green space and garden in front of the Royal Opera House at the centre of which is this 12-metre-high fountain. Built in 2017, there are 69 nozzles that spray water and together they meet and form a central column. The garden itself consists of bright green grass, perfect for a barefoot walk, flower beds and a hedge maze. The view of the opera house is perhaps the highlight though. Once visitors have enjoyed the park, simply cross the street and enter the courtyard to appreciate the stunning architecture.
Corniche Architecture
Speaking of architecture, at the Mutrah Corniche, you will walk and explore the seaside, and visit the famous and historical souq. What not to miss however is the glorious old wooden buildings that are being preserved. These large structures beside the mosque, were built in the 18th century and were the houses of wealthy merchants.
They are some of the oldest buildings that remain of the original city and were constructed by the Lawati who immigrated to Oman from India. Especially beautiful are the detailed wooden balconies and windows. At this spot, now wander down and into the little alleys. Keep your eyes peeled upwards for there are other examples of this romantic architecture that are absolutely stunning.
I hope this gives visitors a few more ideas of what not to miss in Muscat. My best advice is to explore and wander away from the typical tourist sights. This is a destination that is full of treasures and incredible sights if only you seek them out. The further I wandered the more fascinating and interesting things I found. Do the same, you wont regret it.
