Amidst a contrasting landscape of palm groves and striking mountains, the city of Nizwa is a newly-modern hub that has kept its history intact. The city itself is known as the “Pearl of Islam” in part for its roots as a capital, and also for its preserved traditional architecture. The 17th-century fort still lords over the city, and the channels of the UNESCO-listed Falaj Daris are an excellent example of ancient irrigation technology still used today. Dates flourish in the region and the city souk is brimming with the fruit alongside tanned hides, spices, pottery, and jewelry. Head outside of the city to see the historic sites of Bahla Fort and Jabrin Castle, trek the peaks of the Al Hajar Mountains, and explore the desert dunes of Wahiba Sands.
