TravTalk India Online Magazine
New Delhi: Oman has a plethora of exciting activities to enjoy during the colder months, as well as tranquil beaches to cool off on during the scorching-hot summer months. While the Gulf area is commonly associated with skyscrapers and five-star resorts, Oman remains one of the prized Arabian pearls that can reconnect one with the diverse traditions and customs of a civilisation that extends back hundreds of thousands of years.
More and more people are flocking to Oman to discover what makes this country so special, including marine life off the southern coast of Dhofar Province, a wealth of rich history to discover in Muscat, mountains and deserts to discover, and a paradise of extravagant festivals to discover. Oman also has a terrific infrastructure that is excellent for visitors and is a safe place to visit solo or in groups.
Experience Oman’s diverse heritage
Ancient mosques, forts, and tombs tell the narrative of the battles, beliefs, and people who shaped this distinct region of the Middle East. The majority of these architectural marvels are open to the public all year and are among the most spectacular relics of the pre-modern Islamic world. Many breathtaking ancient sites adorn the country’s historic cities. Their roots reflect Oman’s many influences and layers of history, with some going back to the Sassanid Empire, the last Persian Empire kingdom before the emergence of Islam. Five Omani sites have been included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Despite the extraordinary developments that have happened in Oman over the years, the country has remained committed to its traditional arts and crafts. A variety of customs, ranging from music and dances that differ by location, are still widely practiced today. While the traditional custom of bullfighting is still practiced along the Batinah coast, the residents of Sur farther south have a significant musical legacy that pays respect to their marine past.
When is the best time to visit Oman?
Oman, like the rest of the Arabian Peninsula, has a tropical desert climate with hot summers and mild, dry winters. The colder, more Mediterranean climate of the mountain regions differs from the more humid coastal regions and the arid desert interior. The pleasant weather in Oman, on the other hand, makes it a year-round destination, with an abundance of warm, sunny days and soothing seas. And, while much of the nation is incredibly hot in the summer, one could always do what the Omani do and travel up to the cooler mountainous areas or down south, where the monsoon provides a refreshing experience.
Winter in Oman is a pleasant 20–25°C in Muscat and there is low humidity from December to February. For chilly evenings in the mountains, an extra layer is usually required. Rainfall is expected to be light, with showers most probable on the far northern Musandam Peninsula. Oman’s weather conditions, particularly in February, make it an ideal vacation destination. In February, the average quantity of rain reported in Oman is 17 mm, with one rainy day being usual. February also marks the beginning of one of Oman’s most important events, the Muscat Festival, a month-long celebration of Omani culture and tradition. The average temperature in Muscat (the capital city) is approximately 22°C, with highs around 26°C
Oman’s cultural extravaganza: The Muscat Festival
The Muscat Festival began in 1998 with the intent of keeping local children entertained throughout their school vacations. And today, it draws both residents and tourists to enjoy the variety and diversity that give each region of the Sultanate its own distinct flavour throughout the month-long celebration. The Muscat Festival is an opportunity to enjoy authentic and traditional Omani music, theatrical performances, small fun fairs and shops, sample some of the most delectable local cuisines, experience the finest of Omani hospitality, and connect with the locals. It is essentially a one-stop shop for family entertainment, and it is one of the most popular events that draws travellers from all over the world. The festival brings together the efforts of the country’s active official, private, and even popular sectors.
