6 things you didn’t know you could do in Jabal Akhdar

Al Jabal Al Akhdar is one of the most popular tourism destinations in Oman, as a number of regional and international tourists flock to explore its pleasant climate, mountain ranges, farms, aflaj and heritage houses over the weekends and holidays. Al Jabal Al Akdhar means ‘green mountain’ in Arabic; and is famous for its natural beauty, and its friendly and generous people. The mountain’s semi-Mediterranean climate is conducive to grow some rare fruits such as pomegranate, figs, pear, grapes, lemon, almond and olives in Oman. That’s not all —the mountain range is also famous for growing roses, from which the renowned Jabal rosewater is made. Enamoring tourists from all over the world — Al Jabal Al Akhdar has a unique identity; and attracts GCC tourists as well as international travellers to hike, camp, star-gaze, or simply enjoy a walk along its beautiful villages. 1) The fossil waterfalls High in Al Jabal Al Akdhar, just west of Sayh Qatanah, is Oman’s Tufa “fossil waterfalls”. The water here is said to have flowed since ancient times from the area just east of Al Ain village. White calcite is deposited as the water flows over existing limestone formations, creating a fascinating feature. 2) The extinction phenomenon excavations Before arriving into Sayh Qatanah in the heights of Al Jabal Al Akhdar, a junction to Ar Rus village will take you to a geological marker for one of the earth’s great mass extinctions. On the excavated northern face of the area is a thin wavering dark strata. This represents one of the Permain-Triassic events of the perhaps 251 million years ago where 50 per cent of animal life on earth became extinct. 3) Wadi Bani Habib village Exploring Wadi Bani Habib starts by going down natural rocky stairs, amidst the breathtaking scenery of mountains and trees. Upon arriving at the wadi, the peach, almond, pomegranate, olive and walnut trees welcome one to a colourful festivity. After taking a break under the shade of a tree, one can go up into the old abandoned district of clay houses. A nostalgic feeling is sure to find its way into the heart while wandering around this enchanting place. 4) Al Ain village Al Ain is a picturesque little village built entirely of stunning large agricultural stairs where you can find fruits, vegetables and roses. The village is known for its water springs, which is symbolic of the name of the place, as Al Ain means ‘the spring’ in Arabic. One can have a refreshing swim in the warm waters of the village or take a stroll around it, while visiting the village’s mosques. 5) Riyadh Al Jabal Farm Riyadh Al Jabal Farm is a splendid place in Al Jabal Al Akdhar where all types of rare and delicious fruits, vegetables and trees grow. The farm has impressed tourists and visitors with its high-quality crops; and the famous His Majesty Sultan Qaboos rose is grown at the Riyadh Al Jabal Farm. 6) The caves Jabal Al Akhdar is home to several natural caves that are worth exploring, but with caution and care. It is advisable that when visiting the Jabal Al Akhdar one should hire a guide in order to know the history and hidden natural treasures of the place. Two famous caves — Al Sahil and Al Biban can be found in Akhdar’s Al Manakher village. However, there are many other caves such as the black cave overlooking Wadi Halfeen, Al Dhabaa cave in Wadi Seeq, Al Amir cave in Al Sojrah, and Al Mawel cave in Shnoot that are equally popular among residents and visitors alike.