Excursion Grand mosque, barka fort & traditional house tour at Muscat

Explore the historic landmarks and picturesque countryside of Oman during this immersive, full-day sightseeing excursion.

Muscat, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 40-minute drive to the Grand Mosque. Upon arrival, take a guided visit inside this splendid house of worship. Built between 1995-2001, the Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in Oman and can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers. The entire interior is panelled with off-white and dark-grey marble. The ceilings are inspired by those of Omani forts, and a Swarovski crystal chandelier with gold-plated metalwork hangs down approximately 46 feet (about 14 metres).

Barka City, Market & Fort, Free Time, Beach, Shopping

Next, re-board your coach and drive along the Batinah Coast to Barka, a vibrant beach-side city in the Al-Batinah region and favourite resort destination amongst Omanis. The Barka Fort, standing imperiously over the Omani coastline, and Barka Souq, the traditional marketplace of the city, are major tourist attractions in the region. This rapidly developing city also features many new, upscale boutiques and restaurants along the Muscat-Sohar Highway, and has become a beacon for shoppers. Upon arrival in Barka, take a guided walking tour through its bustling market. Afterward, you can take a stroll along the beach or browse the local souq at your leisure (time-permitting) before walking over for a guided visit to the Barka Fort.

Bait Al Ghassam House, Nakhl Springs, Jebel Mountains

Next, head over to Bait Al Ghassam House, which dates back approximately 200 years to the reign of Sayyid Said Bin Sultan Al Busaidi (1791-1856). Named Bait Al Ghassam House after its previous owner, it was later sold, and occupied, by generations of the Al Busaidy Dynasty. Leaving Bait Al Ghassam, proceed  to the nearby Nakhl Springs, a tranquil oasis surrounded by green vegetation and framed by the majestic Jebel Mountains. After a short photo stop here, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 70-minute drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Grand Mosque, Barka Market & Fort, Bait Al Ghassam (Traditional House), Nakhl Springs

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 656 yards (about 600 metres), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces and inclines, with stairs to negotiate to get on/off the coach and many steps at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Barka Fort, and Bait Al Ghassam House. Walking in Barka is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes. Remember to bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. The tour sequence may vary. Bring local currency for any purchases. Proper attire is required to enter the mosque; guests must wear modest clothing that covers arms and legs; women guests must cover also the head, including the hair. Tattoos must be completely covered before entering the mosque. Food, drinks, and smoking are strictly prohibited inside the mosque. Slip-on shoes are recommended, as guests are required to remove their shoes before entering the mosque; we suggest bringing along a pair of socks for your comfort. Entrance to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is not possible during Muslim Holiday observance, on Fridays, and daily in the afternoon; an outside stop will be substituted at these times. The tour sequence may vary.