Looking for ways to spruce up that Instagram feed? Well, if you are looking to travel to Oman, then you are in for some luck! Surprised? You should be; because Oman may not seem like the best of tourist-alluring places when you think of places to visit in Oman. But, mind you, there are lots of Instagrammable places to see in Oman! Oman, officially known as the Sultanate of Oman, is a small country in the Arabian Peninsula that is known for its cultural heritage. The country is blessed with a wide variety of diverse natural scenery. You can see it all here: mountains, oceans, deserts, greenery, and much more! The country's economy has developed at lightning speed, thanks to its oil wealth. But, amazingly, you don't see much-exaggerated wealth or modernization here, unlike its flashy neighbours like the UAE. Almost all the tourist places in Oman have a calm and relaxing vibe to speak about. From the famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites to the Frankincense trees and the dazzling souks, there is plenty to capture in the photography of the places to visit in Oman, besides the natural wonders and architectural beauty. So, ditch your doubts about why to travel to Oman and whether is it safe to travel to Muscat. Explore the best of places in Oman and have an awesome Instagram feed that is filled with outstanding and impressive pictures and videos. In this article, you will get a gist of the top 12 places to visit in Oman that is sure to give you some momentous memories, as well as an interesting Instagram feed!
1. Bimmah Sinkhole
The Bimmah Sinkhole is a natural formation that is located close to Muscat. This water-filled depression or sinkhole was originally formed by the dissolution of the underlying limestone as a result of the collapse of the surface layer. However, the locals believe in the story that the sinkhole was created when a meteorite landed here. Hence, this well-shaped depression is also called Hawiyyat Najm, which means "the deep well of the (falling) star" in Arabic. Filled with the most crystal-clear water you have ever seen, taking a dip here is one of the most refreshing things to do in Oman. In fact, this is one of the best places to see in Oman, and of course, to take a pic!
2. Wadi Ghul
Wadi Ghul is called the Grand Canyon of Oman and is one of the most epic and natural places in Oman. This abandoned village is near the highest peak of the country - Jebel Shams and is a spectacular sight not to be missed. Jebel Shams is just a two-hour drive from Muscat, though the drive is challenging in itself. You can either rent an SUV 4x4 car or can buy a tour package to the place. The name Jebel Shams literally translates to "the mountain of the Sun",; justifiably one of the best places in Oman to capture sunset shots! Make way to click some spectacular Instagram pictures and if you are adventurous enough, get going with a trekking trip as well.
3. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Looking to click the iconic Oman Instagram shot? Then, don't forget to visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Just be sure to act respectful while at it, as it is a religious place of worship. Built from 300,000 tonnes of Indian sandstone, this monument is an absolute marvel of Omani architectural beauty. The mosque was built in 2001 and is open to tourists from all places. But you are expected to enter fully covered in clothing, including the ankles and the head. Shorts and mini dresses are strictly prohibited. Nonetheless, you can rent the chador from the entrance. This famous mosque covers a massive area of 416,000 square meters and constitutes of the dome, the main minarets, and four flanking minarets as the prime visual features. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is located in the capital city of Muscat and is free for entry to all. If you are worried, whether is it safe to travel to Muscat, don't. It totally is!
4. Nizwa Fort
The historic city of Nizwa used to be the capital of Oman many years back. This small city now has only around 72,000 inhabitants and is rather convenient to walk around and explore. The amazing Nizwa Fort and the picturesque background easily makes it one of the most photogenic places in Oman. The Nizwa Fort can be accessed with around a 2-hour drive from Muscat. The best time to take photos at the fort would be at sunset. You can see the beautiful mountains and the 360 degrees panorama of Nizwa as you climb the stairs in the fort. The old city of Nizwa offers a lot as one of the best places to see in Oman. So, you can stay overnight at any one of the hotels and enjoy it. Or else, you could book a one-day tour to Nizwa from Oman as well.
5. Salalah
If you thought Oman was only about high mountains, historical forts, and dry weather, then you are probably wrong. You could bring in a whole lot of freshness to your Instagram photos by clicking pictures in Salalah. The lush green hills, green meadows, and the local cultivation is quite a sight to see (and, of course, to be photographed!). Salalah is one obvious answer to the question of why to travel to Oman. This small province in Southern Oman is the only place that experiences rain from time to time. The monsoon season called khareef takes place from June to September. You can buy locally grown coconuts, pineapples, papayas, and other produce during this season. Also, the coastal road from Salalah to the Yemeni border provides some Instagrammable places. The landscape covers high cliffs and turquoise blue waters.
6. Qurum Beach
Located in the modern city of Muscat, the Qurum Beach is one relaxing getaway from all the hustle and bustle. The beach, also known as Shatti Al Qurum, has one of the nicest golden sand that you will come across. The turquoise blue water would provide the perfect backdrop for an envious Instagram photoshoot, for sure! You can enjoy the sunrise and the sunset from here as it is indeed a calming experience. Walk along the beach and refresh your senses as the place is usually quiet, especially in the early mornings.
7. Wadi Shab
This is one of the tourist places in Oman that makes you realize that Oman is more than just a hot, dry place. There are many wadis in Oman, and the one closest to Muscat is the Wadi Shab. Wadi Shab means the "gorge between cliffs" in Arabic, and in reality, it is true with green coloured water pools in the middle of mountains. Every nook and corner in this stunning little paradise is Instagram worthy and must be captured in all its essence!
8. Mutrah Souq
Add some ethnicity and colour to your Instagram feed by clicking some pictures at Mutrah Souq. This old-fashioned bazaar is one of the oldest souks in Oman and is brimming with tradition, culture, and the famous Omani tradition. The souk is always buzzing with life and is a haven of colourful textile shops and spice stands. Also, you can find a lot of traditional items (more like souvenirs) on sale. Get yourself some treats as well as some Instagram clicks while here.
9. Port city of Sur
The harbour city Sur played a crucial role in Oman's maritime past. The small town was once famous for dhow building and still produces traditional wooden vessels in the shipyards. Sur has a population of 210,000 inhabitants and is the second wealthiest city in Oman. With functioning boatyards, a fine corniche, excellent beaches, and two forts, Sur is one of the most visited tourist places in Oman as well as one of the best Instagrammable places!
10. Bahla Fort
Located at the foot of the Jebel Akhdar, the Bahla Fort was listed as UNESCO Heritage Site in 1987. After its reopening in 2012, the Bahla Fort now boasts of beautiful adobe walls and sandstone towers that stagger up to 165 feet in height. Unlike the Nizwa Fort, this fort is less visited by tourists though it speaks volumes of Omani ethnicity. Use the stunning backdrop to click some dramatic pictures!
11. the Wahiba Sands
The vast desert spread over the northern part of Oman is only a 2-hour drive from Muscat. The Wahiba Sands, otherwise known as Sharqiya Sands, is an incredible natural landscape that has luxurious desert camps and high sand dunes. You can access this Instagram worthy place in a 4x4 ride. Also, there is a well-paved road down the desert, making it very accessible to reach the dunes.
12. Royal Opera House Muscat
One of the premier venues for musical arts and culture, the Royal Opera House Muscat is an absolute architectural marvel. The complex is a harmonious blend of white marble, inlaid wood, and arabesque design. If you decide to stay on for a performance, make sure to come well dressed in formals (jeans and sports shoes not permitted). The opera house is one of the Instagrammable places in Oman, especially at night with impressive lighting. Oman is a beautiful place to visit and easily accessible from all parts of the world. You can apply for an electronic visa to Oman with a few clicks. Discard your doubts like "is it safe to travel to Muscat" Is Oman worthy of the money", "can I enjoy in Oman" and venture into the new realm of tourism. There are indeed plenty of reasons why to travel to Oman!
