Nizwa Holidays

Visit Nizwa, the former capital of Oman and one of the Sultanate’s oldest cities.

Located by a desert oasis and encircled by the Western Hajar Mountains and sprawling date plantations, Nizwa was once an important trade and religious centre. A perfect addition to a stay on the coast in Muscat, this striking region offers historic architecture and breathtaking natural landscapes. You can wander around the 17th century Nizwa Fort which was strategically built overlooking the town and today stands as testament to the settlement’s importance on an ancient caravan route.

Like many towns and cities throughout Oman, Nizwa has a buzzing souk where you can haggle for silver works, spices and dates or local handicrafts. The nearby oasis town of Bahla is home to the ruins of Oman’s oldest fort and the resplendent 17th century Jabreen Castle.

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Nizwa Hotels

Our recommendations for the best places to stay in Nizwa

Alila Jabal Akhdar

A luxurious hotel that makes the most of the surrounding dramatic landscapes.

Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort

This resort is a mountaintop oasis combining Omani tradition and VIP glamour.

Get to know Nizwa and those important practicalities when planning your perfect holiday.

Capital
TIME DIFFERENCE

GMT +4 hours

CURRENCY

Omani Rial

FLYING TIME TO DESTINATION

7¾ hours

RELIGION

Islam

LANGUAGE

Arabic

Where is Nizwa? Nizwa is located in the north of Oman in the Ad Dakhilyah region. It is the second largest city in Oman after Muscat which is just under a 2-hour drive away.

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Buzzing souk Located at the crossroads of the ancient trading routes and once the capital of Oman, Nizwa’s souk is one of the country’s oldest. Set around the walls of Nizwa Fort, you will find clay pots of all shapes and sizes lining the alleyways leading to stalls piled high with colourful fruit and vegetables. See the sacks of dates, nuts and fragrant spices and admire the silversmith’s craftsmanship in the intricate patterns on the khanjars, the Omani curved dagger.

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Forts & mosques The imposing Nizwa Fort was built in the 17th century and is a must see on a visit to the city. From its 30-metre-high central tower you can admire city views and the surrounding landscapes.Next to the fort is Al Qala’a Mosque, one of the oldest in Oman. In contrast, the second largest mosque in Oman, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque only opened in 2015 and is named after the late Sultan of Oman. Whilst not open inside to non-Muslims, both mosques are fine examples of Islamic architecture.

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Hajar Mountains The Hajar Mountains stretch over 400 miles across Oman and the United Arab Emirates. Accessed by an exhilarating 4x4 journey and set amongst the craggy cliffs, a number of resorts have been built, allowing visitors the chance to experience the peace and tranquillity of the mountains. After watching an incredible sunrise, trek through canyons or walk to one of the local villages to see how the farmed terraces produce peaches, almonds and figs. Return to the resort’s spa where pomegranate massages will relax tired muscles before heading outside for stargazing. The Hajar Mountains are a perfect extension to the beaches of Oman.

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