NAKHAL & RUSTAQ (FULL DAY)

Nakhal Fort is a large fortification in the Al Batinah Region of Oman. It is named after the Wilayah of Nakhal. The fort houses a museum, operated by the Ministry of Tourism, which has exhibits of historic guns, and the fort also hosts a weekly goat market.

The fort, also known as Husn Al Heem, was named after the state of Nakhal where it exists above the old village of Nakhl. It has a history which dates back to the pre-Islamic period. Over the centuries, it underwent many renovations and improvements. It was re-built by Omani architects in the 17th century. Built as a protective measure for an area oasis and nearby trade routes, it passes through the regional capital of Nizwa. The gateway and towers seen now were extensions built in 1834 attributed to imam Said bin Sultan. In 1990, it was fully renovated. Imams of Wadi Bani Kharous and the Ya’arubah dynasty resided here in the past.

Nakhal lies at the foothills of the mountains near an abundant source of water, which irrigates extensive date palm plantations. Drive along the magnificent Batinah coastline to Barka then heading south to the Oasis of Nakhal. Visit a Fort dates back to the 17th Century and visit Al Thowarah Hot Springs. Picnic lunch in one of the many shades. Then moving to Rusatq to visit another pre-Islamic fort. Return to muscat.