After a short dune drive, proceed to Nizwa - the cultural capital of Oman.
Morning we depart on a full day trip to the historical & heritage capital of Oman - visit the round tower Fort of Nizwa, probably the best fort architecture in Oman and Nizwa Souq where potteries, gold & silver wares are sold. There after proceed to visit Jabrin Castle built in 17th century, with magnificent plasterwork, wooden carvings; painted ceiling makes this castle amazingly different. Later drive onwards to visit Bahla, the mystical village, known for Arabian potteries. Visit one of the pottery making units. (Closed on public holidays and Fridays). You also visit the majestic Bahla Fort, recently opened to public after a long restoration.
Today's excursion begins in the morning with a visit to the old fishing village of 'Taqah', famous for the manufacture of 'Dried Sardines' & its traditional & old 'Dhofari Houses'. Visit the century old 'Taqah Castle', the former official residence of the 'Wali' (Governor) of the region & obtain a glimpse into the rich history of the region. Continue onto the ancient ruins of the once famous city of Sumharam (Khor Rohri). The city was the easternmost outpost of the Hadramawt Kingdom on the ancient incense route between the Mediterranean Sea, Persian Gulf and India. Khor Rori was an important port on the coast of Dhofar, and one of the major trading cities with frankincense, believed to have been the hub & harbour for the shipping of Frankincense (UNESCO World Heritage site).
A picturesque drive then leads you to 'Mirbat', the ancient capital of Dhofar and the beginning of the 'Frankincense trail'. Stroll through the streets lined with old Omani mud houses & visit the 'twin-domed Bin Ali's Tomb' as a photo stop …a classic example of medieval architecture. On our way back to western Salalah, explore the natural spring of 'Ayn Razat', beautifully laid out amidst the tranquil lush mountains & nourished every day of the year by natural underground spring water.
Thereafter we proceed to 'Qara' mountains to explore the western part of Salalah. On a road steadily winding up a steep incline, herds of Camels & Cattle are a common sight which gives a scenic view of a traditional Dhofari rural beauty. Visit the ancient tomb of 'Prophet Job' situated in the scenic green mountains of the Salalah Plains. Experience the legendary story of Prophet Job and his devoutness.
Proceed to the beach of Mughsail where the white sand touches the deep blue of the ocean & at high tide, where waves burst through the natural titanic 'Blow Holes', at the far end of the 'Rocky beach' with a cave-like entrance. We thereafter continue along the 'Hair-pin-bend' road towards Western Border of Oman, with its breathtaking cliffs on either side, to see the historical 'Frankincense trees' growing in their natural habitat, deep down in the valleys, dotting the dry & craggy countryside.
We take a short walk into the valleys to smell the 'Holy Incense' amidst the scenic view of the region. On our return journey we make a photo stop at the lagoon at Mughsail where migratory birds – occasionally flamingos – are a common sight. Return to the hotel.
Check-out from the hotel & proceed to visit "The Museum of the Frankincense Land". Opened in July 2007 at Al Balid Archaeological Park, a UNESCO heritage site located in Salalah, the Frankincense Land Museum is the latest addition to Oman's heritage and cultural scene. (Opened Sun - Thu 8:00 – 14:00 & 16:00 – 20:00, Fri– Sat 14:00 – 21:00). It houses two main halls, namely the History Hall, depicting the geography, history of the ancient Frankincense trail and the historical background of the Sultanate through a number of archaeological findings, and The Marine Hall, featuring displays about the development of Oman's rich marine history. A complete history of the Maritime trade & ship building industry of Oman could be experienced here, with meticulously carved replicas of the ancient boats & ships of the Omani Maritime trade.