Behind the Nakhal Fort in Al Batinah, the Al Hajar Mountains rise majestically and separate the coastal stretches of Oman from the desert plateau. Nestled at the base of the Hajar Mountains is the city of Nizwa, the largest in the region and one of the oldest cities in Oman. Given the proximity of the city to the Mountains, one of the best things to do in Nizwa, Oman is to plan a trek to the Hajar Mountains.
The Hajar Mountains are home to a few spectacular places, including the highest mountain the country, that is frequently missed by tourists because of the lack of suitable accommodation in the area. However, in the recent past, few resorts and luxury accommodation have been established and now, travellers have the opportunity of traversing the challenging terrain of the mountains and returning to the comfort of a hotel.
One such place that can now be explored with ease is the Saiq Plateau, located in the vicinity of Alila Jabal Akhdar. At a stunning height of 2, 000m, the Saiq Plateau was previously accessible only via a very steep walking path that took over six hours to climb. In 2006, however, a tarmac road was completed facilitating a drive up to the Plateau. Given that the Plateau is located around 6, 000 feet above sea level, it is pleasantly surprising to discover that this area is rather fertile. As a result, the views while ascending (and descending, as there is only one route) are truly stunning while the villages on the slopes and their terraced cultivations provide for beautiful photographs.
The Saiq Plateau is certainly a place to visit if you have the time, and a vehicle can be hired for this purpose from the hotel you reside in. Another place of interest in the Hajar Mountains is one of the deepest canyons in the world, Wadi Ghul.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.