Things to do in Muscat

Exploring Muscat and its charms

Muscat is a great city to explore. The things we think Muscat offers are:

• The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, which is the third or fourth largest mosque in the world deserves a visit courtesy of the sparkling Swarovski crystal chandelier, hand woven ethnic carpet and marble panelling. It is one of the few mosques which are open to non-Muslim visitors, similar to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi  - and one should dress conservatively.
• Amongst the number of big and small parks, the Qurum National Park with its rose gardens, waterfalls, lake and amusement park is the largest. Another prominent park is the Riyam Park which features an Arabian watch tower in addition to a number of rides.
• Wadi Shab, located 100 kilometre south-east of Muscat, offers one of the most spectacular sights with its emerald green pools, enigmatic caves and dramatically steep sides.
• The city is home to a number of museums, each specializing in a particular theme so that there is something of interest for all age groups and professions.
• There are a number of activities which would capture the imagination of tourists here, the foremost being a walk in the Corniche area and other equally interesting alternatives being scuba diving, night safari, trekking, rock climbing and watching aquatic animals in their natural habitat.

Muscat is a gourmet king’s paradise as is evident from a wide range of eating joints serving a variety of cuisines and catering to a variety of budgets. However, you should keep to your bottled water if he wishes to remain on his feet throughout the trip. Likewise, one is spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodation as well and while the Grand Hyatt feels like an Arabian palace Arabian palace there are a number of conveniently located mid-range and budget hotels as well.  Our favourite is the Shangri-la Muscat, perfect for a family getaway.