IDMC Travel

Exploring Sur, Oman

The city of Sur is the capital of Ash Sharqiyah Governorate, on the coastal highway line of Gulf Oman. It is located to the northeast of Muscat, 200km from Muscat (Roughly 2 hours). It was the most important place for all sailors in the past and up till now sea plays a vital rule to the inhabitants of Sur.

Sur Sightseeings

The lighthouse

The lighthouse: Located in the historical area of Ayjah, it is a great place to start with its full view of the city of Sur. The recent tower is an 18 m 3-story tower with a domed roof (59 ft.). The tower is closed to visitor but you can circle around and just enjoy the view.

The Old Town of Sur

The Old Town of Sur: Around the lighthouse in the area of Al Ayjah you can discover old merchant houses. Recommend you discover it by foot to have time to admire the details in the carved wooden doors.

Ayjah Watchtowers of Sur

Ayjah Watchtowers of Sur: The 3 watchtowers located at the entrance of the lagoon once protected the dhows to enter the harbor.

The fort of Sur

The forts of Sur: The town of Sur has 3 main castles: Sunaysilah Fort, Bilad Sur Castle, Al Ayjah For. Not much to see inside them but apparently climbing the ramparts and all is nice.

Dhow Yard

Dhow Yard: One of the most interesting places to visit whilst you are in Sur is the Dhow Yard to the west side of the city. You can enter if the doors are open and it is allowed to walk around and it is the place of The Fatah Al Khair Dhow Boat which is a traditional, historical boat that is now out of the water and open to the public to visit the inside.

Ras Al Jinz turtle reserve

Ras Al Jinz turtle reserve: You can go for an evening tour to the protectorate turtle’s area of Ras Al Jinz (no photography allowed) or a morning tour (photography allowed) to spot big holes and turtles inside. High season is between July and October but you can see them all year round.

Wadi Bani Khalid

Wadi Bani Khalid: If you want a more accessible Wadi, and looking for a bit of adventure! Then you should head to Wadi Bani Khalid which is only 30 minutes away from Sur. Here you can swim, enjoy the buffet restaurant or hike and admire the big white boulders.

Bimah

Bimah: where the snake gorge of Bimah, and the sink hole which is a water-filled depression. The sinkhole was formed by a collapse of the surface layer due to dissolution of the underlying limestone. However, locals believe that it was created by a meteorite, ‘Hawaiyat Najm’, which translates to ‘The Falling Star’ in Arabic, and hence the name.