The day begins with a visit to the iconic Sultan Qaboos Grand mosque that was opened to the public in 2009. Take in the highlights of the mosque that includes the Persian style architecture, the 115 million individual knots handwoven carpet and the crystal chandelier that hangs from a carved 118-foot dome.
Drive through the lush green plantation that grows coconut, banana and other various vegetables and fruits. Stop at one of the vegetables and fruits stall on the road to experience locally grown crops. View the Al Husn Palace that is the official palace of His Majesty the Sultan and stroll through the old Haffah souk, famous for selling high-quality frankincense and numerous other Dhofari traditional souvenirs.
Visit the 'Museum of the Frankincense Land' that was carefully built near the ruins of Al Baleed historically known as Zafar, a 12th century port that had a strategical role in the trading of frankincense between India in exchange of spices. The museum displays the artifacts from bygone era. The marine hall illustrates Oman's maritime history.
Later you'll be driven towards the Qara mountains. On the road winding to top of mountains, you may encounter herds of camels or cattle. Qara mountains are summer home of Dhofaris due to cool climate in summer. Enjoy the scenic view from the top of mountains. Visit the burial Tomb of Job ( Ayoub in Arabic ) situated at the top of the mountain.
Enjoy the Mughsail beach where the white sand touches the deep blue of the ocean. At high tide, waves burst through the natural titanic ‘blow holes’ at the far end of the ‘Rocky beach’ with a cave-like entrance. Drive through the scenic ‘Hairpin-bend’ road towards the western border of Oman. See the historical ‘Frankincense trees’ growing in their natural habitat, deep down in the valleys, dotting the countryside. Take a short walk into the valleys to smell the ‘Holy incense’ amidst the scenic view of the region.
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