Heralding the spring season, the apricot trees in the Wakan village are in full bloom. The village, which is located 2000 meters above sea level in Wadi Mistal is characterised by a climate similar to that of the Mediterranean basin, where the temperature is moderate in summer and in winter. This is why the village is ideal for planting fruits such as apricots, grapes, pomegranates and crops such as garlic and onions in terraced farms overlooking the magnificent mountains above and Wadi Mistal below.
Wakan is part of Wilayt Nakhal in the South Batinah Governorate, although its located right in the border with Al Dakhiliyah Governorate through Al Hajar mountain range.
Despite the rough roads leading to this small village, it is witnessing a great tourist turnout to enjoy the spring season in the mountains. Once you reach the village, there are a couple of hiking tracks that start at the village, and they are marked by the familiar yellow, green and red flag that mark most hiking tracks in Oman. The track that goes through the village is the easiest and most accessible, comprising 700 steps across the terraced gardens and along a falaj stream ending at the watchtower at the top of the village.
If you love hiking and trekking this village has a trekking path marked with yellow, green and red flags that mark most hiking tracks in Oman. This path will take you to Al Jabal Al Akhdar, a mountain that is part of Al Hajer Mountains.
On the hills and on the slopes of the mountain, there are Al Alalan, Al boot, and Al Atm trees. All these trees are used to extract many types of natural oils that are used to treat many diseases.
The village also has many archaeological sites and small caves that shed light on the life of ancient life and architecture. The falaj that extends along the mountain path is used by the villagers to irrigate their farms throughout the year. The falaj is also the primary source of clean drinking water.
TEXT & PHOTOS BY YAHYA AL SALMANI
Photo by Adnan al Balushi
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