6 Best Sights in Oman

Bilad Fort

One of Oman's many restored forts, this 200-year-old fortress is not as impressive some of the others, including the mammoth Nizwa fort. This one was built to protect the city from inland attack, so there are some great views of Sur from its high walls. The locals who look after the fort are quite friendly and will invite you to sit with them and enjoy Omani dates and coffee.

Fort Al-Jalali

Sitting on the eastern side of Muscat's old harbour, this fort dates from 1587. It was subsequently captured by Omani forces and gradually expanded and strengthened. There are two watchtowers and a long cannon wall. It can be viewed and photographed, but visits are not allowed.

Fort Al-Mirani

On the western side of Muscat's old harbor, this fort was built by the Portuguese in 1588 on the ruins of an older fort that stood at the same site. Like Al-Jalali Fort, just accross the harbor, it can be viewed and photographed, but visits are not allowed.

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Nakhal Fort

The closest of the northern fortresses to Muscat, about 100 km (60 miles) to the southwest, is the ancestral home of the Yaruba people, builders of some of the finest fortresses in Oman. The region is lushly green and has many soothing hot springs. The fort makes for an ideal picnic spot.

Nizwa Fort

The fort in Nizwa dates from the 17th century, during the Al Ya’rubi dynasty, and was built on top of the ruins of a 9th-century castle. The massive structure has been nicely restored, with many rooms set up to look as they did when the fort was in use; you'll see interesting historic tidbits offered in various displays in many rooms. Be sure to check out the prisoner room and read about the wartime use for the local dates, which were turned into a deadly weapon in the form of a cauldron of boiling date syrup. The views from the central tower are spectacular and worth the climb.

Sultan's Armed Forces Museum

The museum not only displays traditional and modern weaponry used in the Sultanate, but it also gives a history of the various wars, uprisings, and battles that have taken place in Oman over the centuries. Tours are lead by a member of the armed services, and guides are typically very knowledgeable and friendly. Don't miss the photo gallery of all the world leaders who have visited, from Margaret Thatcher to Bashar Al-Assad.

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