Oman, gateway to paradise

New Delhi: The Sultanate of Oman encourages tourists to come and discover the country and enjoy several of its attractions.

As the second-largest country in the Arabian Peninsula, Oman has a variety of topographical features such as valleys between rugged mountain ranges. These are between terraced orchards where pomegranates, apricots, and roses grow, and stretches of a vast plain with desert peppered with wadis. Oman’s cities line up along the coast.

Before the 1970s, Oman was a major port for travelers, which resulted in assimilation of several cultures into its own. It was Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said who unified Oman’s national identity thus creating the Sultanate’s unique and welcoming culture.

An estimated 75 per cent of the population practice a branch of Islam known as Ibadism. In keeping with the austere nature of Ibadism, Oman’s mosques are simple and are not at all decorated. High in religious tolerance, non-Muslim religious communities in Oman include Hindus, Sikhs, Jews, Buddhists, and Christians. Nestled below craggy mountains, Muscat is one of Oman’s oldest, picturesque, and largest cities.

Oman is synonymous with perfume and forms an integral part of Omani culture of daily life and festivals. It is made with locally sourced ingredients such as frankincense, myrrh, and rose water. One can get a first-hand look at some of the fragrant perfume at some of biggest brands in Oman.

There are many attractions in Oman, which tourists should never give a miss. Some of these include Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, The Royal Opera House, Mutrah Fort, Qurum beach, Bait al Zubair Museum, and Mutrah Souq among others.

Oman also offers a plurality of activities related to the sea. The Dunes Beach Club beach restaurant, located in Sifah, presents a whole new gastronomic experience by the sea. Stunning views and elegant decoration make it an ideal place to enjoy a moment of relaxation over a drink, lunch, or dinner. The splendid eco-resort Six Senses Zighy Bay, located in the Musandam Peninsula, offers a new day trip on their luxury Omani dhow, the Dhahab. Exclusively reserved for its guests, the experience offers navigation along the fjords and coastal villages, nautical activities and a gourmet lunch prepared by the chef on board.