The United Nations Development Program has ranked the Arab nation of Oman as the most upgraded nation in the world, in terms of growth. Set on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, tourism and fish trade contribute to a notable portion of the country’s high-income economy. Shipbuilding is the country’s mainstay. Oman’s port capital, Muscat, sits on the Gulf of Oman. The city is known for its high-rise buildings, upscale shopping malls, Portuguese forts, and the splendid Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Thousands of tourists visit this city every year. The finest part of Muscat city is a strip of pedestrian passageway running from the fish market towards the Old Fort and Watchtower. Known as the Mutrah Corniche, this stretch, dotted with beautiful buildings and mosques, runs for about 2 miles (3.2 km) from the harbor. Here is a guide to Mutrah Corniche, a place that makes for a splendid sight in the evenings.
1. Things to do / highlights
The Corniche is a well-maintained, clean, and green place for splendid mornings and evenings. Cycling and exercising in the fresh air is sure to leave you completely rejuvenated. It is a great place to take striking pictures of the sunrise and sunset.
The moderate waves and amazing seashore are soothing to the soul. Do not miss the huge seagulls on lazy winter mornings. You may also look for schools of fish in the water and keep an eye out for birds swooping down on their prey! There is also a playground available for kids.
Get classic views of the water, rocky mountains, port area, the entire Qaboos port, the magnificent 16th-century forts, the Muscat Gate, and traditional Omani ships.
The pavement features fancy embellished tiles with a definite fish theme. The monuments, roundabouts, and statues are decorated with beautiful-looking underwater creatures like fish and dolphins. There are traditional paintings and art pieces on walls while marble benches dot the walkway.
Visit the fish market and the fresh produce market next door. You can buy stuff at amazingly low prices here.
Walking towards Old Muscat; you will pass by the old fort and the watchtower. You can enjoy amazing views of the water and the cornice from the top of the fort. There are also scenic vistas of anchored dhows unloading their catch of the day. The bustling ambiance as the sun sets makes for a memorable sight.
Mutrah souk is a traditional market, the oldest in Oman, and it sells ancient, traditional items alongside modern-day wares. As you walk from the port to the souk, you will chance upon charming, latticed houses and gazebos, which make for great photo opportunities. The market opens at 4 pm and you can buy incense burners, silver jewelry, genie lamps, small camels, handicrafts, and many more such souvenirs. This makes it a hot-spot among visitors to the Corniche.
Riyam Park is an enchanting place located on the eastern end of Mutrah Corniche. This lush green leafy park is a fun place for kids. The giant-sized ornamental incense burner is the center of attraction here.
2. What to eat
The buzzing cafes, grill restaurants, street food stalls, pop-up eateries, and food courts along the pedestrian walkway of Mutrah Corniche offer a range of Omani delicacies for you to sample.
Treat yourself to shawarma, a typical Middle-eastern wrap, at one of the stalls near the entrance to the walkway. Or, you could try Arsia, a festival meal served during celebrations, made of meat, rice, milk, and flavored with spices**.
Shuwa is yet another local delicacy where marinated lamb meat is roasted to perfection in a banana leaf. The fish-based Mashuai and Rukhal bread are just some of the other options available. Finish off with sweet Omani halwa for dessert accompanied by a cup of coffee. Alcohol is also served in some restaurants in the area.
Corniche Cafe
A good variety of Middle Eastern dishes, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, are available here. The Indian snacks, Turkish coffee, and fresh juices here are simply awesome.
Kurkum
Indian-Asian food is the specialty at this place. It also offers plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Lamb with fresh coconut, lamb and chickpea curry, naan bread, coconut fish curry with rice, welcome drinks, and starters are all delicious.
Quandeel Food Truck
Enjoy a special meal featuring Omani dishes at affordable prices, at this food truck. You can eat picnic-style, sitting in the park, or on one of the benches lining the walkway. They also set up special seating arrangements for guests.
3. Travelers tips
As Oman experiences a dry and blazing climate, the best time to visit is from Nov to Mar. Visit early in the morning to avoid the mid-day heat and also to see the fishermen at work. You could also head out after 4 pm, when the weather is cool and pleasant. In the evenings, the place takes on a magical glow when the lights are switched on.
Wear comfortable footwear for easy walking. Opting for public transport may save you from the hassle of finding a parking spot.
4. How to get there
The main road (road 1) goes through the Mutrah Corniche. Getting there in a taxi is the best option as shared orange taxis and metered cabs are available. Mwasalat Cabs tend to be a little expensive but the Mwasalat Bus Service is also available. You can also rent a car and drive out. While parking is free, it can be difficult to find a spot in the evenings and at mid-day.
Mutrah Corniche information (from USD 117.0)
Address: Muscat, Oman
Opening hours: 24 hrs (daily)
Price: Free
Department of Tourism: Visit Oman
Muscat 4-Hour Private City Highlights Tour Shore Excursion
Duration: 4 hours
History
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