Sur, Oman: A Coastal Haven for Adventure Seekers and Culture Enthusiasts

Oman is a beautiful country with diverse landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. And one of the hidden gems of Oman is the city of Sur, located in the eastern part of the country, overlooking the Arabian Sea. Sur is a place of contrasts, where the old and new coexist, and traditional customs meet modern innovations. In this travel guide, we will explore some of the uncommon things that Sur has to offer and help you plan your trip to this captivating city.

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Witness the art of dhow building

Sur is renowned for its dhow building industry, which has been passed down through generations for centuries. Dhows are traditional wooden boats used for fishing, pearl diving, and transportation in the region. Today, you can visit the dhow yards of Sur to witness the art of building these boats, using traditional methods and tools. It is a fascinating experience to see skilled craftsmen shaping the wood, carving intricate designs, and assembling the pieces into a functional vessel. You can even take a ride on a dhow and explore the coastline of Sur, admiring the stunning views and learning about the history of these boats.

Explore the turtle reserve

Sur is home to the Ras Al-Jinz turtle reserve, where you can observe the nesting and hatching of endangered green turtles. The reserve is located on a beautiful beach, and you can take a guided tour to see the turtles up close, without disturbing their natural habitat. The tour takes place at night, as that is when the turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. You will learn about the life cycle of these magnificent creatures and the efforts to protect them from extinction. It is a unique experience that you will never forget.

Visit the Al Ayjah lighthouse

The Al Ayjah lighthouse is an iconic landmark of Sur, located on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea. The lighthouse was built in 1879 and is still in operation today, guiding ships and boats through the treacherous waters of the Arabian Sea. You can visit the lighthouse and climb to the top for a panoramic view of Sur and the surrounding area. It is a great spot for photography and a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Experience the Omani frankincense

Frankincense is a resin extracted from trees that grow in the Dhofar region of Oman, and it has been used for thousands of years for medicinal, religious, and cultural purposes. Sur is a gateway to the frankincense trail, which was an ancient trade route connecting Oman with the rest of the world. You can visit the Al Husn Souq in Sur and buy authentic frankincense products, such as incense, oils, and perfumes. You can also visit the Al Baleed Archaeological Park in Salalah, which was an important center of frankincense trade in ancient times.

Taste the Omani cuisine

Omani cuisine is a fusion of Arabic, Indian, and African influences, and it features a variety of flavors, spices, and textures. In Sur, you can try local dishes such as shuwa, which is a slow-cooked lamb marinated in spices and wrapped in banana leaves, or machboos, which is a rice dish with meat or fish, flavored with saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon. You can also try Omani sweets, such as halwa, which is a sweet made from sugar, ghee, and rosewater, and served with coffee or tea.

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