Salalah, the jewel of Oman’s Dhofar region, is famous for its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich heritage. Here are the top 10 must-visit places in this tropical paradise:
1. Mugsail Beach
Mugsail is a long stretch of clear blue water with white sand and beautiful cliffs on either side of the water. It's a magnificent and picturesque landscape! Perfect for a picnic and a quick swim, you can even drive through the beach! There are also many cute traditional huts at the beach where you can have your barbequed lunch.
2. Sultan Qaboos Mosque
Sultan Qaboos Mosque is the largest mosque in Salalah and is located in the city center. It's a colossal structure with an elegant mix of Arabic and Modern architecture. Its interiors are designed to instill a sense of purity and humbleness in believers during prayers. It is adorned with huge chandeliers, green carpets, and wall patterns. The eclectic structure is fully air-conditioned. The mosque has been named after the Sultan of Oman, Sultan Qaboos. Non-Muslims are also allowed to visit the mosque and marvel at the sight.
3. Taqah Castle
Taqah Castle is one of the prominent cultural and historical landmarks in the area, is one of the best places in Salalah worth visiting to explore its architectural beauty and capture wonderful souvenir photos. This castle was built in the 19th century as a residence for the leader Sheikh Ali bin Taman, who is considered a grandfather to Sultan Qaboos, and the site features its beautiful and unique design. It has been converted into a museum displaying weapons and archaeological pieces used by ancestors.
The castle, located 33 kilometers from Salalah, embraces beautiful green spaces, and you can explore various towers and rooms in the castle, where the story of Omani life and history is narrated to you. In addition, you can visit the cemetery adjacent to the castle, which includes a tomb for the mother of Sultan Qaboos, visiting a unique cultural and historical experience.
4. Sumhuram Archaeological Park
Lying amongst one of the marvelous bays of Dhofar, was once one of the chief trading ports of frankincense, Khor Rori (almost 2000 years ago) which is now the Sumhuram archaeological park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site lies 25 miles east of Salalah on a hilltop that overlooks the beautiful freshwater creek of Khor Rori. The park itself is fascinating to visit as it is both a museum and an archaeological park. You can see the archaeologists at work around the ruins, excavating this historical place.
5. Marneef Cave & Blowholes
Located near Al Mughsail Beach, this cave provides stunning views of the ocean while the natural blowholes create an exhilarating experience.
6. Al Marneef Cave
Located in the Shatti Al Mughsayl area, which is about 40 km from Salalah in the Governorate of Dhofar, Al Marneef Cave is ranked among the top 10 most popular tourist attractions in the Indian Ocean. It overlooks the Arabian Sea and Al Mughsayl Fountains (which also happens to be the most preferred picnic spot by locals and tourists).
7. Al-Rawas Mosque
Al-Rawas Mosque in Salalah is one of the oldest and most famous mosques in the region, characterized by its vast area that highlights the beauty of Islamic architecture. Its walls are adorned with artistic engravings and stunning Islamic decorations, creating a beautiful scene that you should interact with closely and capture photos of this elegant religious art.
The mosque serves as a vital center for religious lessons, offering many courses and Quran memorization sessions, in addition to having a comprehensive Islamic library where visitors can find a wide range of religious sources. The mosque enjoys a strategic location in the center of the Salalah region in Dhofar Governorate, bordered by Al-Nahda Street from the east and Al-Muntazah Street from the north.
8. Jebel Samhan
Jebel Samhan is another local attraction in the city of Salalah. Burrowed in the hills and pasture lands of the Dhofar ranges is a protected and enclosed wildlife reserve of Jabal Samhan. The wildlife sanctuary plays host to the endangered Arabian leopard and other species of flora and fauna found in the Arabian peninsula. Although you need a permit to visit the sealed enclosure a trip is well worth the effort.
9. Al Fizayah Beach
Al Fizayah Beach is one of the most magnificent beaches in Salalah, stretching along long stretches of soft sand, and surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. This beach features a beautiful moderate climate and breathtaking natural landscapes, with a gentle golden glow extending along the beach. It also features something unique from other beaches in Oman, as it is surrounded by a large number of fabulous hotels that offer excellent service to guests.
10. Al Husn Souq
You can find almost anything you need at the Souq, from clothes to food to souvenirs, the souq has it all! Bargaining is allowed. The vendors are all respectable and bargain respectfully. You'll also find extremely unique items that you won't get anywhere else in the city. The souq is located next to the Sultan's Palace and is a popular hub for the Dhofari people.
