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).
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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.
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.
Jabrin Castle
Our next stop was the more ornate Jabrin Castle constructed in 1675 as a summer residence for the sultan. (It is located in the nearby town of Jabrin.)
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.
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.
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
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 coverage 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.
- We got caught in a rare desert storm with flooding.
- Enjoy some of the sweet, succulent dates if you visit.
Next Stops: Omani Grand Canyon and Misfat Al Abriyeen
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
Have you been to Nizwa, or anywhere in the Middle East?
Read more at Entering Oman.
If you enjoyed learning a bit about Nizwa, please share this photo article on your social media, including Pinterest:
Madhu Shetty
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.
Rhonda Albom
Thanks. I also enjoyed Oman.
Corinne
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.
Rhonda Albom
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.
Kreete
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!
Rhonda Albom
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.
Paula McInerney
Beautiful photos Rhonda. Always an issue finding toilets in places. Fancy castles
Rhonda Albom
Oman is not known for having many public toilets, so it is a real issue here.
Rob+Ann
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!
Rhonda Albom
Agree, there is a classic medieval look that never quite existed except in fairy tales that comes to my mind.
David
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.
Rhonda Albom
Now you are encouraging me to post a few more from Oman. I love the country, and it loves my camera.
David
Please do, would love to see as much as possible and your photos are great!
Reshma Narasing
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.
Rhonda Albom
I hope to spend more time exploring the middle east. I just love the architecture, and usually, the lack of crowds.
Sandy N Vyjay
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.
Rhonda Albom
It was my paradise. I love photographing places like this.
Travelera
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
Rhonda Albom
I loved Oman also. You probably didn’t need to find the bathrooms when you were there. 🙂
Megan Jerrard
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 🙂
Rhonda Albom
Oman is a hidden gem. I loved just about everything about our visit. And, thanks.
Jill
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!
Rhonda Albom
There are few public toilets in Oman. This sign was something different.
Debra Schroeder
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.
Rhonda Albom
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.
Tanja (the Red phone box travels)
wow! I’ve never been to such a place
Rhonda Albom
It’s even better in real life than in photos.
Jim ~ Reflections Enroute
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
Rhonda Albom
We went to Oman on air passes from Emirates. It was super cheap.
Bryna | Dotted Line Travels
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!
Rhonda Albom
Yes, that is exactly why I pointed out my daughter. She gives some perspective to the massive size of this tower.
budget jan
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?
Rhonda Albom
Like you, we read about Oman somewhere and it piqued our interest. We felt very safe when we were there in 2012.
Handmade Jewelry Haven
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
Rhonda Albom
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.
Kat
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?
Rhonda Albom
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.
Brandy
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.
Rhonda Albom
Happy to take you with us virtually.
tracy collins
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
Rhonda Albom
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.
Rhonda Albom
Thanks Rebecca. We do look for the details.
Nancy
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.
Rhonda Albom
Thanks Nancy and hope you get to this interesting part of the world someday.
Rhonda Albom
I hope you get there someday Gina.
noel
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.
Rhonda Albom
Oman is a rare gem as so much of it is untouched by tourism.
Photo(Geo)grapher
What a lovely country! I enjoyed your beautiful photos in Oman.
Rhonda Albom
I love the desert. When you look, it is quite colourful, and wonderful to photograph.
Tamara Elliott
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.
Rhonda Albom
“Straight out of the history books” is a great description of Nizwa.
Sumti Bhadani
beautiful pictures… Would like to visit once…the forts gives the historic forts of Jaipur.
Rhonda Albom
Thanks Sumti, I haven’t been to India, yet.
L. Diane Wolfe
What a beautiful oasis. I love the mountains – they look like the Sandias in ABQ. Hopefully the oasis never dries up.
Rhonda Albom
I have only been to Albuquerque once, and don’t remember the Sandias.
Lyn @ A Hole in my Shoe
Oman looks like a very interesting place. I’d love to browse around in the souks and love the bathroom sign.
Rhonda Albom
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.
Lyn aka The Travelling Lindfields
I love the camel!
Rhonda Albom
Me too. I love finding moments of real life that make the perfect photo.
Mimi & Mitch
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!
Rhonda Albom
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.
Ruth Johnston
Love the bathroom signs!
Rhonda Albom
Me too 🙂
[email protected]
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.
Rhonda Albom
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.
Pat --Mille Fiori Favoriti
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!
Rhonda Albom
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.
Paul F. Pietrangelo
Thank God I would be able to find a washroom. I hope that there are toilets in there? See ya Rhonda.
Cruisin paul
Rhonda Albom
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.
Anisa
I had not heard of Nizwa before. Such an impressive castle, I really love the intricate ceiling. I would love to visit one day.
Rhonda Albom
So many places in the world to see. We often try to visit the lesser known ones.
jo
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
Rhonda Albom
Thanks. The dates were a staple item, and so soft and sweet.
Anda
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.
Rhonda Albom
Thanks Anda. Oman is a destination I would recommend.
Trekking with Becky
This is mesmerizing! My jaw is still hanging down a bit. I love all your Oman posts.
Rhonda Albom
Thanks Becky. I am hope you and your camera get there someday too.
Ruth
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
Rhonda Albom
Honestly, it is one of my favourite places that I have been. It surprised me too.
Sandee
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. 🙂
Rhonda Albom
As you will never go, I am glad I can share it with you. Thanks Sandee and yes, Sarah is doing well.
Kat
The building’s in such great condition! I don’t know why that amazes me so much. They must really look after it.
Rhonda Albom
I felt the same way as we stood there. It is really impressive that it has survived so long.
Lexa Cain
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.
Kat
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.
Rhonda Albom
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.
Alex J. Cavanaugh
Now that’s a room with a view.
That tower is huge!
Rhonda Albom
LOL, yes it is. And the tower is still the largest round tower in Arabia.
Hilary Melton-Butcher
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
Rhonda Albom
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.
Lolo
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
Rhonda Albom
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.
Mary {The World Is A Book}
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.
Rhonda Albom
We loved Muscat, but enjoyed the country even more once we stepped outside of the capital city.
khalid
thanks for the beautiful photos
I’am from Nizwa
Rhonda
I love your town! Do you still live there? I really hope I make it back to Oman someday. It is so beautiful.
Janis
Loving your photos and daily updates, love to all
Rhonda
Thanks Janis.
Tony Payne
Must feel weird dressed up like that. The fort is amazing.
Rhonda
One of our goals is to gain a appreciation for other cultures, so it is a good opportunity. It is hot though.
Jane
Your shots are gorgeous! I wish I ever could have the chance to visit that beautiful place!
Carol
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.
Rhonda
Hi Carol, I thought that too, but they call Nizwa a desert Oasis City, so I did too 🙂
Naigel
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…
Rhonda
It is a wonderful place. We are really loving Oman
Joyce
Now that’s cool!
Lynne
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.
Rhonda
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.)
Susanna
At least the toilet signs, frightening though they are to me, clearly show which one you can go to
Rhonda
Too true.