Oman surprised me, and the ancient city of Nizwa was a part of the mystery. Situated on the plains of the Hajar Mountains, it is only a two-hour drive from Muscat. We enjoyed a long day trip, but in retrospect, we could have spent a Thursday night, thus allowing us to observe the Nizwa Oman Friday livestock markets in the morning.
What we did find was an oasis, a date palm forest in the middle of the desert. This former capital of Oman (sixth and seventh centuries AD) is also the home of the Nizwa Castle and Fort built in 1668. Its tower remains the largest round tower in Arabia at 45 meters in diameter. We also explored the old and new souqs (marketplace).
Table of Contents
Nizwa Fort and Castle
Standing in the centre of the massive round Nizwa Fort tower it is easy to understand why this is the most visited national monument in Oman. Its tower remains the largest round tower in Arabia at 45 metres in diameter and 34 metres tall.
Nizwa Castle was built in the 9th century, and the Nizwa Fort portion added in the 17th century. There is great signage in multiple languages (including English) throughout the castle and fort that explain each room and area’s usage.
Nizwa Castle and Fort’s round tower with one of the city’s many mosques in the background.
This tower is huge. Notice, Sarah is standing on one of the steps.
We can see the more modern portion of Niwza from the top of the tower.
A traditional water jug is hanging inside the Nizwa Castle.
This hole is part of the security system. Guards poured boiling palm oil on unsuspecting intruders as they attempted to pass under it.
The male / female bathroom signs highlight traditional Omani formal wear. For men, this includes the Khanjar dagger.
Tour Oman
Camel on the Side of the Road
Honestly, I don’t know if these camels are wild or belong to someone, but they are just wandering along the sides of the road. We don’t see them everywhere, but we did see camels as we drove between the old castles in Nizwa and Jabrin.
A camel spotted on the side of the road as we travelled from one castle to the other.
Jabrin Castle
Our next stop was the more ornate Jabrin Castle built in 1675 as a summer residence for the sultan. (It is located in the nearby town of Jabrin.)
Jabrin Castle was the Sultan’s summer residence.
The intricate ceiling in a room of Jabrin Castle.
View of the palm desert from Jabrin Castle.
Bahla Fort
Bahla fort was built in the 13th and 14th centuries and is the only fort in Oman that has UNESCO World Heritage status. Finding Bahla Fort is a bit more challenging, as it’s not well sign-posted, but it is worth the effort.
We also visited Bahla Fort.
Old Nizwa Souq
More conservative than the Mutrah Souq in Muscat, it was recommended that we cover our shoulders, knees, and hair when we visited. In addition to a shopping area, it was also a gathering place for men. We saw groups of men sitting, talking, and often laughing amongst themselves. I was asked not to share photographs of these groups.
The old souq offered an eclectic mix of the products.
Getting to Nizwa
- It’s an easy two-hour drive from Muscat to Nizwa. If we went today, I am sure we would rent a car without any hesitation. However, when we visited Oman, we were new to long-term travel, and this was our first time in the Middle East. We opted to hire a guide.
- We have successfully used Rentalcars.com in other parts of the world where we didn’t speak the local language. Using their online system, we select our criteria (size, options, etc) and are offered a list of cars from various local dealers. By booking directly through rentalcars.com, we have never paid more than going directly, we have great customer support, additional insurance options, and English speakers should we need assistance.
⇒ Click here to check the availability of rental cars in Oman or Book Now
Tips for Visiting Nizwa
- Nizwa is a conservative town, and our guide recommended we adhere to the general guidelines for respectful clothing in Oman, which for women involves a minimum covering of shoulders and knees.
- Referred to as the ‘Pearl of Islam’, Nizwa is currently the country’s second-biggest tourist destination.
- Nizwa was named the Capital of Islamic Culture in 2015 in the Arab region.
- Enjoy some of the sweet, succulent dates if you visit.
Next Stop: Omani Grand Canyon
Where to Stay in Nizwa Oman
I wish we had spent the night. Our time was really rushed and would have been better spent had we slowed down a bit. I also wish we had planned to be in Nizwa on a Friday to see the livestock market, although I was glad we saw a similar livestock market in Rissani Morocco. We visited Nizwa as a day trip from Muscat where we stayed at the Tulip Inn Muscat, an accommodation that impressed us. It offered the comforts we like combined with an element of classic Omani culture. Noticing a Golden Tulip in Nizwa, that would be our first choice.
⇒ Click here to check pricing and availability at hotels in Nizwa Oman or Book Now
Have you been to Nizwa, or anywhere in the Middle East?
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A fabulous gallery. The framed view of the palm desert from Jabrin castle is the star. Oman of all the countries in the gulf has always fascinated me the most.
Thanks. I also enjoyed Oman.
I keep kicking myself each time I see an Oman post. When we visited UAE, we should have spent some time in Oman, but we didn’t and your trip sounds amazing. Now, I’m going to have to spend the money to get there again. Oh well. Live and learn.
Emirates was offering Air Passes when we were there, so it was a super cheap hop over to Oman from Dubai, even for four of us.
The view from the palm desert is absolutely stunning and quickly took the first spot among your beautiful photos for me. How interesting that Nizwa was the capital of Islamic culture. This is one part of the world I still havent explored, but would love to!
I was surprised that such a small and off the beaten track city was selected for that annual honour, but like you I know little about this part of the world.
Beautiful photos Rhonda. Always an issue finding toilets in places. Fancy castles
Oman is not known for having many public toilets, so it is a real issue here.
What great pictures! Normally, when we think of castles, it’s Europe that comes to mind. This is a good reminder of the beauty and majesty of other lands and their castles! Great post, as always!
Agree, there is a classic medieval look that never quite existed except in fairy tales that comes to my mind.
You’re killing me with these Oman posts haha! Nizwa looks fascinating and the Castle, Tower and Fort all are staggeringly impressive. I honestly have to figure out how to visit Oman this year, because it really is at the top of my list. I keep pinning your posts in that hope at least.
Now you are encouraging me to post a few more from Oman. I love the country, and it loves my camera.
Please do, would love to see as much as possible and your photos are great!
The Middle East has so much to offer, and I’m always especially drawn to the rustic ambience of these destinations. Loved the fort a lot. Never been to Oman, will definitely add Nizwa to my list.
I hope to spend more time exploring the middle east. I just love the architecture, and usually, the lack of crowds.
The forts are splendid. And I cannot believe my eyes looking at all those photographs that this place is an Oasis. This can become a photographer’s paradise! A relatively unknown gem with a unique kind of beauty indeed.
It was my paradise. I love photographing places like this.
The tower and fort look amazing, I did not noticed the bathroom sign when I went there. I loved the trip to Oman!
Happy week dear Rhonda
http://www.travelera.es
I loved Oman also. You probably didn’t need to find the bathrooms when you were there. 🙂
Stunning photography as always Rhonda – I’ve heard from a few people recently that Oman was really surprising (in an excellent way!). Would love to get to Muscat at some point, and while there will be sure we make the two-hour drive to Nizwa 🙂
Oman is a hidden gem. I loved just about everything about our visit. And, thanks.
All your photos are wonderful but the one of the restroom sign – including the dagger – was so interesting! I’ve never seen anything like it!
There are few public toilets in Oman. This sign was something different.
Oman does look like an oasis. I didn’t realize how easy it is to get to from Muscat. Your photos of the fort came out great. I’m always impressed when people can capture nice shots without getting other people in them. I’ve been to the UAE multiple times but had to cancel a trip to Muscat this January. But hope to make it there later this year.
Oman has invested in their roads and getting to Nizwa seemed pretty smooth. Sorry you missed your visit to Muscat. If you get another opportunity, take it.
wow! I’ve never been to such a place
It’s even better in real life than in photos.
Thanks to all of the new airlines going through the region, visiting the different emirates is as simple as planning a long layover on your flight between Asia and Europe or Africa. We’ve done Quatar and UAE this way. Nizwa will have to be added on some future travel plans for us, it is so exotic. And who doesn’t love an Arabian desert fortress? #wkendtravelinspiration
We went to Oman on air passes from Emirates. It was super cheap.
These photos are absolutely beautiful. The tower is so big – I didn’t notice how big it was until you pointed out that your friend was standing on the stairs, and she looked so tiny!
Yes, that is exactly why I pointed out my daughter. She gives some perspective to the massive size of this tower.
I am interested in you describing Oman as one of the most interesting places you’ve visited. It is on my radar now. What took you to Oman – was it work related? I wonder if it is a safe place to visit nowdays?
Like you, we read about Oman somewhere and it piqued our interest. We felt very safe when we were there in 2012.
Great post!!
You mentioned in one of the earlier comments that you dressed differently. Did you just ‘cover up’ more with Western Dress or did you wear something more traditional during your stay there?
– Lisa
We travel extremely light, so it would be more covered up with layers. As we headed towards the interior the attitude was more conservative. It was recommended to us that the women in the family cover shoulders and knees. Our girls simply wore jeans long pants, it was a skirt for me, all with a t-shirt or similar. We also frequently wore head scarfs.
I’m loving your photos of Oman! I’ve been to a few places in the Middle East such as Iran and Jordan – I have been in awe of their massive medieval forts and castles – so much of history, and after so many centuries, these structures are still standing tall and strong, amazing, aren’t they? Thanks for sharing Rhonda 🙂 #TheWeeklyPostcard
Yes, amazing and impressive. Jordan is near the top of my list, yet for some reason we just haven’t managed to get there yet.
I love posts like these because they open my mind and draw attention to parts of the world, I previously knew nothing of. Thank you for taking me on a journey this morning.
Happy to take you with us virtually.
I haven’t been to the Middle East at all though I grew up with my step-father working in UAE and my husband has visited a friend in Bahrain. I have friends who have been to Oman and really enjoyed it. I am hoping to spend a few days in Dubai later this year on a stop-over so will have my first experience of the Middle East. Interestingly when we were in Bosnia – Mostar – earlier this year the influence of the Ottoman Empire was very evident and the market was (my husband said) like a souk with similar items on sale (lamps etc) #wkendtravelinspiration
We found Dubai and Oman to be very different from each other. Dubai has a modernness to it, but more so in the attitude of the people. We were told that 80% of Dubai’s population are expats.
I haven’t been to Nizwa or anywhere else in the Middle East – I hope to visit one day. Your photos are stunning. I particularly like the photo of the palms from within the castle – excellent perspective.
Thanks Nancy and hope you get to this interesting part of the world someday.
Wow this is stunning, I would have never expected to see something this gorgeous in the country outside of malls and hotels. I would love to visit these types of historic treasures.
Oman is a rare gem as so much of it is untouched by tourism.
What a lovely country! I enjoyed your beautiful photos in Oman.
I love the desert. When you look, it is quite colourful, and wonderful to photograph.
Wow, it looks like a place straight out of the history books that hasn’t changed a bit over the centuries. Definitely sounds like a great day trip to add for anyone visiting Oman.
“Straight out of the history books” is a great description of Nizwa.
Looks wonderful, especially the souq. Love the details you find too.
Thanks Rebecca. We do look for the details.
beautiful pictures… Would like to visit once…the forts gives the historic forts of Jaipur.
Thanks Sumti, I haven’t been to India, yet.
What a beautiful oasis. I love the mountains – they look like the Sandias in ABQ. Hopefully the oasis never dries up.
I have only been to Albuquerque once, and don’t remember the Sandias.
Oman looks like a very interesting place. I’d love to browse around in the souks and love the bathroom sign.
The souqs in Muscat were much larger, but this one was older. Nizwa also has a new souq. Both are catered more for locals than tourists.
I love the camel!
Me too. I love finding moments of real life that make the perfect photo.
can’t believe we were in Nizwa and did not go in the Jabrin Castle, it looks so stunning. Thank you for convincing us to go back!
It’s in the nearby town of Jabrin. Finding places like Jabrin was one of the big advantages to us of having a local guide.
Love the bathroom signs!
Me too 🙂
Amazing photos. I love the architecture especially the intricate ceiling in Jabrin Castle. I wonder why one is not allowed to take pictures of the gatherings of older men.
I am not sure it wasn’t allowed, or just highly frowned upon. If we had asked our guide why, I know longer remember the answer.
What an interesting city and such a large, well preserved castle. I liked the ancient looking and intricate ceiling, and the beautiful view of the palm desert and distant mountains from the window. I can imagine the dates are so delicious, Rhonda. What a wonderful trip this was!
The dates are so soft, sweet, and mouth-watering. There is nothing quite like fresh dates, and were are served everywhere we went in Oman.
Thank God I would be able to find a washroom. I hope that there are toilets in there? See ya Rhonda.
Cruisin paul
Actually, public toilets are somewhat rare in Oman, it is a common complaint by tourists. These are a rare find, but I was so intrigued by the signs, I had to share them.
I had not heard of Nizwa before. Such an impressive castle, I really love the intricate ceiling. I would love to visit one day. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard.
So many places in the world to see. We often try to visit the lesser known ones.
Thanks for sharing! I’d love to visit this place.
I hope you get there someday Gina.
I love that photo from Jabrin Castle – what a spectacular view. I have never been to Oman but it’s great to know that there is so much to see and that it’s so easy to travel around. I have been to Israel and the dates there were good! Thanks for hosting #WkendTravelInspiration
Thanks. The dates were a staple item, and so soft and sweet.
Ah, Rhonda, your pictures of Nizwa Castle and Fort are so beautiful! You convinced me that I have to go visit Oman. If only all it would take to get there is convincing me… Well, maybe someday.
Thanks Anda. Oman is a destination I would recommend.
This is mesmerizing! My jaw is still hanging down a bit. I love all your Oman posts.
Thanks Becky. I am hope you and your camera get there someday too.
I have been surprised by your series about Oman! The country is gorgeous and this fort is not the exception. It will be a dream to visit more of the Middle East. #TPThursday
Honestly, it is one of my favourite places that I have been. It surprised me too.
I haven’t been there and never will visit the Middle East. Okay, we aren’t travelers so won’t be leaving the U.S.
I’m glad the surgery went well. Thanks for posting that on Facebook.
Have a fabulous day. 🙂
As you will never go, I am glad I can share it with you. Thanks Sandee and yes, Sarah is doing well.
The building’s in such great condition! I don’t know why that amazes me so much. They must really look after it.
I felt the same way as we stood there. It is really impressive that it has survived so long.
I think the castles are faring really well considering how old they are. Nothing in Egypt fares so well. Did you hear about the Ramses head discovered recently? The gov’t was digging to put in sewer pipes. My husband say the area is right next to where his family lives, and he knows the place because for years a little old man would put his cart there and sell koshary (delicious street food). No one had any idea there was a statue under there. But seriously, in Egypt you can’t throw a stone without hitting statues or pottery or burial pyramids, etc. They’re everywhere.
I can’t imagine living in a place where you dig for sewer pipes and turn up ancient artifacts! Sounds so cool, I really have to get to Egypt.
Even if they are “everywhere” that is still quite cool that your hubby knows the spot and has been there. I think Oman is an older culture than Egypt, yet somehow they are better preserved.
Now that’s a room with a view.
That tower is huge!
LOL, yes it is. And the tower is still the largest round tower in Arabia.
Hi Rhonda – I can believe it was hot! Amazing and wonderful opportunity you took – and yes teaching your kids to adhere to local customs and ‘laws’ a necessity and so well worth setting examples as you both do .. to your own children, and no doubt others who share your journey. Nizwa and Jabrin must have been wonderful – such a pity you missed the market …
Wonderful – thanks so much for sharing these excellent photos – do you know what the ceiling was made of or decorated with? Thanks! Cheers Hilary
I am very proud of my girls and the culturally sensitive people they have grown up to become. As for the heat, yes it was HOT, but also unseasonably cool when we were there, so not too bad. Remember, I like hot weather. We did get to see a livestock market later on in Morocco. As for the ceiling, sorry, I have no idea.
Wow this was absolutely entertaining! I don’t know much about this region but every now and then I stumble upon beautiful things and save them! Wouldn’t mind going one day! #wkendtravelinspiration
I didn’t know much about the region either until I started learning about six months before we left. Oman is an easy country to travel in, and we encountered so many welcoming and friendly people.
I’ve always found Oman so interesting and have only ever heard of Muscat. The architecture and culture is fascinating. Beautiful photos! I haven’t been to the Middle East yet.
We loved Muscat, but enjoyed the country even more once we stepped outside of the capital city.
thanks for the beautiful photos
I’am from Nizwa
I love your town! Do you still live there? I really hope I make it back to Oman someday. It is so beautiful.
Loving your photos and daily updates, love to all
Thanks Janis.
Must feel weird dressed up like that. The fort is amazing.
One of our goals is to gain a appreciation for other cultures, so it is a good opportunity. It is hot though.
Your shots are gorgeous! I wish I ever could have the chance to visit that beautiful place!
Thanks Jane and welcome to my blog.
Fact:
Oasis- a spot of fertile land in a desert, supplied with water by a well or spring that reaches up from beneath the ground for a limited time of maybe 50- years
I love the picture of Oasis. I just wonder this area is too big to be an oasis.
Hi Carol, I thought that too, but they call Nizwa a desert Oasis City, so I did too 🙂
Beautiful! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for sharing with us the beautiful place of Nizwa fort and tower… I know that my family will be happy to visit this place…
It is a wonderful place. We are really loving Oman
Now that’s cool!
Thanks Joyce.
I never imagined an Oasis to be the size of a city. What a shame you can’t take photos of the older men as they would make wonderful subjects.
I agree, but at least I have my memories. I know other people take the photos anyway, but we are trying to teach the children respect. (Plus I generally try not to break the rules, especially when out of my home country.)
At least the toilet signs, frightening though they are to me, clearly show which one you can go to
Too true.