Friday 19 / April / 2024
As you relish the intermittent drizzles in Salalah during the Khareef season, you might find that some of the spectacular sightseeing locales become all the more attractive amid the mist. If you love visiting unspoilt nature, these Dhofari destinations are not-to-be-missed.
1. Ittin
Just outside Salalah, Ittin has many attractions. Apart from the Ittin Cave, which is located above a mountain, and Ayn Jarziz, the newly built Ittin walkway is the area’s newest attraction. The Ittin Park also attracts tourists for its lush greenery. Just a few minutes drive from the Salalah airport, Ittin is a must visit area.
Time from Salalah: 10 minutes from Salalah airport
Geo Locator: 17° 3’ 56.43’’ N
54° 4’ 0.57’’ E
Ittin Park, Salalah, Oman
2. The Anti Gravity Point
This mysterious spot remains one of the most visited sites in Salalah. Driving from Taqah to Mirbat, approximately 27km past Taqah, there is a point on the hilly road where a stopped vehicle in neutral gear will be pulled up the hill with no regard for the laws of gravity.
Time from Salalah: 35 minutes to Taqah and 30 minutes from Taqah to Mirbat
(Total an hour)
Geo Locator: 17° 3’ 18.89’’ N
54° 22’ 46.26’’ E
Taqah, Oman
3. Beaches at Mirbat
There are several breathtaking beaches in Mirbat and along the scenic drive to Mirbat from Salalah. Traditional boats called dhow can be seen fishing just off the shores of Mirbat. Stop to enjoy the serenity of the natural coastline, especially the white sand beaches. After a barefoot walk through the soft sands, have seafood lunch in the village and take a stroll through the lush green Mirbat Garden.
Time from Salalah: Approximately an hour
Geo Locator: 16° 59’ 35.05’’ N
54° 42’ 9.96’’ E
Mirbat, Oman
4. Blow Holes
Located just besides Mughsayl beach, the impressive, natural blow holes are quite an attraction as water from the sea shoots 30 metres into the air as sea waves crash on the underground caves below them. The views of the surrounding towering green cliffs and misty ocean shores are reason enough to visit this breathtaking place.
Time from Salalah: 45 minutes
Geo Locator: 16° 53’ 22.85’’ N
53° 47’ 13.20’’ E
Mughsayl, Oman
5. Wadi Sahalnoot
Wadi Sahalnoot is just 15km from Salalah and it gets resplendent in greenery during Khareef every year. The valley has impressive and beautiful natural scenery. While you drive on the meandering roads of this valley you can see greenery all around. The roads are narrow with sharp bends so one must be cautious while driving.
Time from Salalah: 20 minutes approximately
Geo Locator: 17° 3’ 2.40’’ N
54° 6’ 23.71’’ E
Salalah, Oman
6. Wadi Darbat
Known for its natural spring during Khareef, Wadi Darbat is wildly popular during the rainy season. Close to Taqah, approximately 65km drive from Salalah, boat rides through the wadi are the biggest attraction. One can go for power boat rides or paddle boat rides. Children also enjoy feeding the fish and the shores of the wadi are ideal for barbecuing.
Time from Salalah: Approximately an hour
Geo Locator: 17° 10’ 33.49’’ N
54° 32’ 42.62’’ E
Wadi Darbat, Oman
7. Taqah Beach
The white sandy beaches of Taqah is stunning. Bird lovers can see flocks of birds here while children can play in the nearby area.
Time from Salalah: 30-35 minutes approximately
Geo Locator: 17° 3’ 18.89’’ N
54° 22’ 46.26’’ E
Taqah, Oman
8. Mughsayl Beach
The stunning blue waters and crisp white sands of Mughsayl beach make it Salalah’s biggest attraction. This beach is around 57km drive away from Salalah, and you should take a 4x4 to enjoy off-road stops along the way. The stretch of mountains on both sides of the route offer a spectacular backdrop. The beach is ideal for barbecues and picnics as there are some hut-like sitting areas onsite. If it isn’t raining, bring your mat or chairs and spend some great time with your family wandering on the soft sands of the beach, having a game of football, and spotting the many unusual birds in the area.
Time from Salalah: 45 minutes
Geo Locator: 16° 53’ 22.85’’ N
53° 47’ 13.20’’ E
Mughsayl, Oman
