Essence Of Salalah – East & West Salalah

The excursion begins in the morning with a visit to the old fishing village of 'Taqah', famous for the manufacture of 'Dried Sardines' & its traditional & old  'Dhofari Houses'. Visit the century old 'Taqah Castle', the former official residence of the 'Wali' (Governor) of the region & obtain a glimpse into the rich history of the region.

Continue onto the ancient ruins of the once famous city of Sumharam (Khor Rohri). The city was the easternmost outpost of the Hadramawt Kingdom on the ancient incense route between the Mediterranean Sea, Persian Gulf and India. Khor Rori was an important port on the coast of Dhofar, and one of the major trading cities with frankincense, believed to have been the hub & harbour for the shipping of Frankincense (UNESCO World Heritage site).

A picturesque drive then leads you to 'Mirbat', the ancient capital of Dhofar and the beginning of the 'Frankincense trail'. Stroll through the streets lined with old Omani mud houses & visit the 'twin-domed Bin Ali's Tomb' as a photo stop - a classic example of medieval architecture.

On our way back to western Salalah, explore the natural spring of 'Ayn Razat', beautifully laid out amidst the tranquil lush mountains & nourished every day of the year by natural underground spring water.

Thereafter we proceed to 'Qara' mountains to explore the western part of Salalah.

On a road steadily winding up a steep incline, herds of Camels & Cattle are a common sight which gives a scenic view of a traditional Dhofari rural beauty. Visit the ancient tomb of 'Prophet Job' situated in the scenic green mountains of the Salalah Plains. Experience the legendary story of Prophet Job and his devoutness.

Proceed to the beach of Mughsail where the white sand touches the deep blue of the ocean & at high tide, where waves burst through the natural titanic 'Blow Holes', at the far end of the 'Rocky beach' with a cave-like entrance.

We thereafter continue along the 'Hair-pin-bend' road towards Western Border of Oman, with its breathtaking cliffs on either side, to see the historical 'Frankincense trees' growing in their natural habitat, deep down in the valleys, dotting the dry & craggy countryside. We take a short walk into the valleys to smell the 'Holy Incense' amidst the scenic view of the region.

On our return journey we make a photo stop at the lagoon at Mughsail where migratory birds (occasionally flamingos), are a common sight. Return to the hotel.