Khareef is a blessing, bestowed on Dhofar with captivating drizzles and mesmerizing waterfalls. The Sarb season follows the Khareef which enhances and complements the stunning spell left by it. Sarb or the Dhofar spring season, as it is popularly known, lasts from the last week of September till the third week of December when the weather is exquisitely pleasant with ample sunshine and serene breezes flowing to ease you off.
Whether you are planning a day trip to the mountains or night outs for camping or bonfires, the weather stays in your stride to let you stroll freely in the laps of nature without any worries. No more rain to hamper your outdoor sittings, no humidity to stress you out, and not too cold to make you uncomfortable during the under-sky night stays.
If you are a nature hugger or a photography buff, it’s near perfect time to be in Dhofar to bask unstoppably in the greener meadows with flowers in full bloom. Ready to hug your feet as you rove through the green pastures of Dhofar.
The temperature is pleasant for various outdoor activities. Whether you want to hike in the lush greens of Dhofar or try some adventure activities on the crystal-clear beaches of Dhofar, you are more than welcome.
As it is green everywhere, it is not rare to watch humongous groups of camels and other livestock grazing. This a splendid deal for the locals to sell their local produce such as milk, honey, as well as dairy products. Known for their hospitality, the Dhofaris are generous enough to offer their livestock produce during your mountain visit. Trust me that will be a treasured takeaway with quality and taste assured.
Moreover, multiple initiatives taken by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism are worth exploring during the Sarb.
The recent Khareef has been a tremendous opportunity for local businesses to flourish and prosper. Along with the steps taken by the ministry to encourage and promote the local artwork, culture, and traditions had been an immense delight amongst the local people. Not only does it give a super boost to thriving businesses but enhances and encourages the innovation of newer ideas being explored by the youth.
The smart policies and their adaptation open up the pathways for the younger generations to come up, contribute, interact, and become a part of social progress toward nation-building. Altogether, it was much perceived during this Khareef and the businesses gravitate to grow during Sarb as well.
Last but never the least, food which is an integral part of Dhofar, occupies a fundamental part during Sarb as well. As the harvesting season moves on, one can find livestock produce in abundance. Make sure, you get some from the souqs or open markets directly from the local sellers. Local ghee, corn, beans, and cucumbers, are popular foodstuffs that shouldn’t be let go of without trying.
And if you are a seafood lover, this is your time with some of the finest qualities of fish available across the markets. There are food joints along the sea or beaches that serve you freshly cooked fish. The roadside eateries along the beaches of Taqah or Mirbat, the coastal towns of Dhofar Governorate, a 30-45-minute drive from the main city of Salalah, let you indulge in scrumptious seafood meals.
Or if you are a fishing enthusiast, get some hands-on, and who knows you treat yourself to some real big catch. Bake, grill, or barbecue on the beach. The choice is yours. After all, Dhofar has something to offer for everyone and Sarb is the time!
Dr Nisma Haris
The writer is a general physician and content creator
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