Excursion Khor rori tour at Salalah

Visit Sumhuram on this tour of the UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site also known as Khor Rori. Khor Rori was a trading post on the lucrative frankincense route through Arabia and beyond 2,000 years ago, making it one of the most important ports on earth.

Start with a visit of the Sumhuram Museum and learn about the numerous structures and settlements that are evidenced here from the Paleolithic, Neolithic, Bronze, Iron and Medieval Ages.

Continue to the Archeological Park to wander among the ruins of the fortified port city and watch archeologists at work. Explore what remains of the town of the town founded on royal initiative and settled by Hadhrami emigrants who likely were seeking control of frankincense production in the 3^rd century BCE.

See the ruins of the monumental gate of Sumhuram, an imposing defensive structure with its three successive wooden doors that protected the town located at the end of a zigzag path. Notice, just before the entry on the left-hand side, the South Arabic inscription on stone describing the construction of the city. Discover the town's layout that included a residential area, facilities for frankincense production, store houses, and a marketplace. Experience the collection of temples, including the main one dedicated to the Mesopotamian moon God, Sin.

From here, walk along the river-mouth lagoon. Along the way, pass by another, smaller temple. As you stand on the shore, imagine a harbor busy with the frankincense trade in ancient times when the lagoon was an open estuary and Dhofar was the main source this commodity.

Continue with your drive to the fishing village of Taqa, known for its interesting fort and typical fishermen dwellings. There will be photo stop at Taga Castle, built in the 19th century.

Note

Please note: This excursion is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Guests need to dress conservatively. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.