Jalb ــ a natural escape in Al Awabi
Published: 06:05 PM,May 26,2024 | EDITED : 10:05 PM,May 26,2024
DJI_0635
Muscat, May 26
The Wilayat of Al Awabi in the Al Batinah South Governorate is witnessing an increasing turnout from local and Arab tourists alike, thanks to its unique tourist features, from the diversity of its picturesque natural terrain to the moderation of its climate, and the presence of many historical and archaeological landmarks, in addition to Omani hospitality.
Among the most important tourist destinations that attract visitors to the Wilayat of Al Awabi, the Jalb area stands out, which is located about 26 kilometres from the centre of the wilayat.
Jalb is distinguished by its picturesque natural scenery, as it is surrounded by towering mountains from all sides, and green farms and orchards are spread in it, characterised by their geometric shape, which comes from the name of the region (Jabal).
Jalb is an ideal destination for adventure and mountain sports lovers, where they can enjoy climbing mountains, hiking, and camping in the lap of nature. There are also many hiking trails in the area, which are suitable for all fitness levels. Jalb is also characterised by the moderation of its atmosphere due to its proximity to the Al Jabal Al Akhdhar, which is only about two kilometres away from the village of Al Suwgra on foot.
Mahmoud al Bahri, a resident of the area, said: 'The agricultural terraces in Jalb are characterised by diverse seasonal crops. In the summer, it is famous for onions and grapes.
In the winter, Jalb Farm is rich in a unique variety of winter crops, where garlic, cabbage, cauliflower, zucchini, cucumber, potatoes, eggplant, pepper, and tomatoes are planted. These crops are distinguished by their high quality, thanks to the fertility of the soil and the great care that the people of the region give them.
Al Bahri added that in addition to vegetables, some winter grains such as wheat, barley, and corn are also grown in Jalb Farm. These grains are one of the basic components of the Omani diet, as they are used in preparing many popular dishes.
He also pointed out that Jalb Farm is irrigated traditionally, using water channels that pass through the farms. This method of irrigation is a symbol of Oman's rich heritage, and it also contributes to preserving the environment and consuming less water.
Al Bahri added that there is a custom of not planting permanent crops in Jalb terraces for several reasons, where the needs of seasonal crops are limited to intensive care for a specific period, usually during the growing season. While permanent crops require regular care throughout the year, including irrigation, fertilisation, and pest control.
He pointed out that planting seasonal crops does not require as much labour as planting permanent crops. Fruit trees, for example, need periodic care such as pruning and fertilisation, while seasonal crops only require intensive care during their planting and harvesting. He also added that planting seasonal crops consumes fewer resources, such as water and fertilisers, compared to permanent crops. Fruit trees require regular irrigation and intensive fertilisation, while seasonal crops can grow well with less of these resources.
Photos by Nasser al Harrasi
The Wilayat of Al Awabi in the Al Batinah South Governorate is witnessing an increasing turnout from local and Arab tourists alike, thanks to its unique tourist features, from the diversity of its picturesque natural terrain to the moderation of its climate, and the presence of many historical and archaeological landmarks, in addition to Omani hospitality.
Among the most important tourist destinations that attract visitors to the Wilayat of Al Awabi, the Jalb area stands out, which is located about 26 kilometres from the centre of the wilayat.
Jalb is distinguished by its picturesque natural scenery, as it is surrounded by towering mountains from all sides, and green farms and orchards are spread in it, characterised by their geometric shape, which comes from the name of the region (Jabal).
Jalb is an ideal destination for adventure and mountain sports lovers, where they can enjoy climbing mountains, hiking, and camping in the lap of nature. There are also many hiking trails in the area, which are suitable for all fitness levels. Jalb is also characterised by the moderation of its atmosphere due to its proximity to the Al Jabal Al Akhdhar, which is only about two kilometres away from the village of Al Suwgra on foot.
Mahmoud al Bahri, a resident of the area, said: 'The agricultural terraces in Jalb are characterised by diverse seasonal crops. In the summer, it is famous for onions and grapes.
In the winter, Jalb Farm is rich in a unique variety of winter crops, where garlic, cabbage, cauliflower, zucchini, cucumber, potatoes, eggplant, pepper, and tomatoes are planted. These crops are distinguished by their high quality, thanks to the fertility of the soil and the great care that the people of the region give them.
Al Bahri added that in addition to vegetables, some winter grains such as wheat, barley, and corn are also grown in Jalb Farm. These grains are one of the basic components of the Omani diet, as they are used in preparing many popular dishes.
He also pointed out that Jalb Farm is irrigated traditionally, using water channels that pass through the farms. This method of irrigation is a symbol of Oman's rich heritage, and it also contributes to preserving the environment and consuming less water.
Al Bahri added that there is a custom of not planting permanent crops in Jalb terraces for several reasons, where the needs of seasonal crops are limited to intensive care for a specific period, usually during the growing season. While permanent crops require regular care throughout the year, including irrigation, fertilisation, and pest control.
He pointed out that planting seasonal crops does not require as much labour as planting permanent crops. Fruit trees, for example, need periodic care such as pruning and fertilisation, while seasonal crops only require intensive care during their planting and harvesting. He also added that planting seasonal crops consumes fewer resources, such as water and fertilisers, compared to permanent crops. Fruit trees require regular irrigation and intensive fertilisation, while seasonal crops can grow well with less of these resources.
Photos by Nasser al Harrasi