In the border that separates Muscat Governorate from Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, ‘Khoonieh Mountain’ attracts hiking enthusiasts due to the site’s beautiful tourist potential. This site can be reached by road from Muscat to Al Ansab and reaching Al Misfah Road until approaching the town of ‘Saal’ which is located between a mountain range in the Wilayat of Bidbid.
This site is surrounded by green agricultural oases, providing nature enthusiasts with positive energy. A love of exploration and adventure motivates those seeking to reach ‘Khoonieh Mountain’. Climbing this mountain is not an easy task for beginners, and anyone who wants to explore this exceptional site must be physically fit.
The trail, which begins at the base of the mountain and extends over a distance of 5 km, requires prior preparation to reach the summit. The highest point is approximately 400 metres above sea level. A normal hike uphill takes approximately 45 minutes, so the exploration journey takes approximately two hours.
This place is a great outlet for mountain sports enthusiasts, and it gives explorers the morale boost of challenge, endurance, and strong determination. The site also offers the opportunity to explore numerous historical and archaeological sites, such as small towers and numerous of ancient tombs. These heritage remains assert the human activities during different phases of lives.
In addition, the hikers can explore the old traditional irrigation system such as ‘aflaj’ which obtain the water from underground and transfer it to several places around this unique valley. People at this area are now preparing themselves to be ready for the harvest season which will commence shortly in May and continuous till September.
The vital harvest of the green oases will represent many types of local fruits and vegetables such as mangoes, dates, onions, garlic and blackberry.
TEXT & PHOTOS BY YAHYA AL SALMANI
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