Ancient capital of Oman and birthplace of Sindbad the sailor, Sohar is located on the lush Batinah coast and lapped by the calm waters of the Gulf of Oman. The coastal plain of rich agriculture land and palm -fringed beaches is often described as the “breadbasket of Oman”. The quaint town owns much to the fishing and farming industries around it. A visit to the fish souk is a must for visitors. Early morning and early evening fishermen beach their boats at the market and disgorge their catch - a variable Neptune’s harvest of shark, sailfish, grouper, snapper, lobster and shrimps. Sohar’s labyrinth of streets and alleyways is a boon for shoppers and tourists. The town retains it’s old fashioned charm, successfully combing the traditional Omani way of life with its twentieth century needs .At it’s heart lies a beautiful restored fort, and a magnificent Corniche sweeps the coast. Sohar is ideally situated for those wishing to explore the countryside. Located close to Sohar are ancient copper mines, and a short journey into the foothills of Jebel Akdar (the Green Mountain ) reveals the delightful fortified towns of Ibri, Nakhl, Rustaq and Nizwa. Sohar every third Friday afternoon in the winter month, holds a series of bullfights. Unlike its European equivalent, this version is completely bloodless, as bulls pit their strength against one another. The winner pushes the loser from the ring. The scramble as these magnificent, agile beasts come too close to the audience or even break loose, can be as entertaining as the “fight”. |
