It’s almost a year since COVID turned the world upside down resulting in a lot of complications and changes in our daily life. We’re all still coping with the new normal but have not given up hope that we will get out of this and take our lives back from this virus. However, if there’s one thing that COVID has accomplished – it has put us on a budget! But who says you can’t still explore and enjoy. Just hold on till we’re rid from this virus and then get packing to explore the beautiful city of Khasab, capital of the Musandam Governorate, nestled in an exclave in Oman, bordering the United Arab Emirates.
Known as the Norway of Arabia due to its ragged inlets that resemble the fjords of Norway and its uninhabited and picturesque mountains, Khasab is frequented as a vacation spot by a population that primarily lives in the more popular parts of Oman. Compared to the cities in the bordering country of UAE, Khasab is smaller and supports a diverse population of people that work at grocery stores, restaurants, tour operators, as well as supermarkets and more.
Apart from its natural attractions, Khasab also enables residents and tourists to partake in different activities, making it a sweet spot for the holidays. We’ve listed for you a couple of things you must do when you head to Khasab. Brace yourself and let the journey begin!
Khasab Fort/Castle
Built in the 17th century by the Portuguese, the present Khasab castle was made by Omanis from the ruins of the Old castle. The fort itself is made of elevated stone and was used as an army base to battle the Portuguese, as well as a city jail, and the home for the Wali of Khasab. The site is rich in history and heritage of Khasab and happens to be a favourite fort for tourists to visit. To access the fort, you will need to pay a small entry fee and then you can tour the well maintained, extremely informative, and historically rich fort.
The Telegraph Island
For all you divers and snorkelers out there, the Telegraph Island is filled with beautiful corals and vibrant underwater life that will pump up your adrenaline and leave you spellbound. The island is located on an inner inlet of the Khasab Bay, less than 400 metres from the shore of the Musandam Peninsula. The Island gets its name due to a telegraph repeater station that was constructed there in 1864. The ruins of this station are still accessible to tourists, who can reach the island using dhows that operate during the days.
Khasab Dhow Cruises
Speaking of the Dhows, whether you want to take a full day, half day, or overnight cruise, Khasab has it all to offer. Cruise alongside the beautiful inlets of Khasab, experience dolphins that swim alongside your boats, and swim in the warm clear waters or just click memorable pictures at every stop. You can explore the rugged fjords of Khasab, go snorkelling, and even stay at private hotels that are usually included in the offers you choose to book. The dhow cruises also include lunch, sodas, and airport and port transfers, that make it easily accessible for tourists. If you’re headed to Khasab, then book your cruise spot as early as possible and witness the magnificent beauty of the Musandam Coast.
Camp by the Beach
Let the sound of the waves crashing on the shores be music to your ears, the high mountains shelter you while the stars in the sky light up your evening as you camp by the beach in the relaxing city of Khasab. While you can pick a spot by the beach and set up your own little campsite, Khasab offers other camping sites that you could book in association with the Dhow cruises. Khasab remote Beach Camping is one such opportunity where everything from meals to tents, and fun activities take place. All you need to do is, make a quick call, or drop a message and confirm your booking.
Trekking
If you like adventure, and like physically challenging activities, then you must go trekking at some of the gorgeous sites that this city has to offer. Sham Village fjords and Kumzar village are two popular trekking sites for tourists. The best time for trekking is between the months of November and April. The agencies that you book your trek with will usually drop you off at the site and arrange for a guide, should you need one. Climb to the top and experience the picture-perfect views while feeling at the top of the world on the high rocky mountains!
Mountain Safari
Most of us have experienced dune bashing, or maybe even desert safaris. But Khasab has something truly different – a mountain safari, where appropriate vehicles drive tourists up the rocky mountainous terrain. The most adventurous drives happen to come from the mountain road on the eastern side of the peninsula, and it is believed that this trip is not for the faint hearted. If you like living on the edge, then this is an adventure you have to try.
Now that you know all that you can and should do when you visit Khasab, plan your next trip as soon as the authorities announce that we can safely return to a world free from the danger of COVID. Whether you want to go as a pair, family, with a bunch of friends, or even alone, Khasab is a stop in Oman you must make.
