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Your Muscat city tour will begin by visiting the beautiful Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. One of the largest mosques in the Middle East, and the only mosque open to non-Muslims and foreigners in Oman.
Following the visit to the Grand Mosque, you will be guided to Nakhal via Seeb. Nakhal is an ancient Omani village. It is at the foot of the mountains, near an abundant water source, from which vast date palm plantations are nourished. The top of this tour is the Nakhal Fort in the Al Batinah region, called after the Wilayah of Nakhal. It dates back to pre-Islamic times in Oman and is one of the best-known forts in the country. Built on top of a large rock, the fort welcomes visitors who wish to enjoy panoramic views of the village of Nakhal and the rare opportunity to discover the collection of historical artifacts housed in the museum. One can also enjoy the invigorating waters of the Al Thawara hot springs. This oasis has been a famous landmark in the region and is believed to have healing properties. Relax and rejuvenate in these hot springs before returning to Muscat city.
On the way back to Muscat a photo stop will be made at the official residence of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said, the Al Alam Palace. It is flanked on either side by the twin forts Jalali and Mirani, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, and you can admire its architecture from the courtyard and at the gates. From the Palace, you will be escorted to the Muttrah Corniche and tour the old town, where you will see some of the original merchants' houses. Later, you will visit the Muttrah Souk, one of Muscat's most popular tourist attractions and home to stores selling Omani and Indian artifacts, antiques along with the traditional textile, hardware, and jewelry stores. The souk retains the chaotic appeal of traditional Arab markets in a modern setting.
Have a stroll through the souk before returning, and you can take a piece of Oman with you from the stores and buy Omani specialties such as incense or Omani daggers. After the city tour, you will be transferred back to the port.
