Barka is one of the most prominent tourist destinations in the Sultanate of Oman, thanks to its diverse attractions that make it a unique destination for visitors. Located in the southern part of Oman, near the capital Muscat, it is known for its many cultural and historical landmarks that give it a unique identity.
Barka features a collection of stunning islands and beaches, as well as palaces, forts, and walls that add special beauty to the region. Many tourists from around the world visit this city to enjoy its natural beauty and relax.
Top Tourist Attractions in Barka Worth Visiting
Al Falaj Fort
Al Falaj Fort is one of the most prominent and well-known tourist attractions in Barka. It features an ancient rectangular structure, standing 11 meters tall, with its construction dating back to the 18th century. The fort is entirely made of stones and covered with plaster. It consists of two towers: one located in the northwest part and the other in the southeast.
The fort attracts many visitors annually, especially those interested in historical tourism. The fort was originally built to provide a resting place for kings during hunting trips. It boasts a unique architectural design, decorated with beautiful engravings, and includes several rooms, storage spaces, and a large courtyard, along with two upper floors, making it a suitable place for hosting kings and their families.
Bait Na’aman
Bait Na’aman is one of the most notable tourist sites in Barka, representing the political and economic development of Oman. Established during the Yaruba dynasty, it was used by the kings as a rest stop during their travels, as well as a place to host high-ranking guests and foreign rulers. The house was also prepared for military and ceremonial events.
The house is square-shaped with vaulted ceilings and is distinguished by its large height. Surrounding it are more than 30,000 trees. It also contains two round towers, each with three floors, which were used as residences for high-ranking state officials. One of the most notable figures who used Bait Na’aman as a rest stop was Imam Ahmed bin Said Al-Busaidi.
Barka Fort
Barka Fort enjoys a strategic location along the coastal strip, making it one of the most famous historical buildings in Oman, with a history spanning more than three and a half centuries. The fort was built to protect the Busaidi and Yaruba states from potential attacks, with tall walls and watchtowers serving as essential defense mechanisms. The fort also includes weapons and ammunition storage.
The fort consists of several historical buildings, including:
- An old mosque decorated with traditional Islamic designs.
- A deep well providing water to the region.
- A large hall that was used for debates and judicial hearings.
- Private wings for the royal family and kings, in addition to the citadel, which includes two large rooms.
Inside the fort, there are old popular markets, such as the fish market and vegetable market, adding a touch of local history and Omani culture.
Ad Dimaniyat Islands
If you are a fan of relaxation and recreation, the Al Dimaniyat Islands in Oman are the ideal destination for you. This natural reserve, established in the mid-1990s, consists of nine breathtaking islands, each home to a wide variety of the best and rarest fish species and coral reefs. The reserve is also home to rare species of birds and turtles with vibrant colors, making it difficult to find these creatures in other parts of the world.
Located along the coast of Al Seeb, the reserve is easily accessible from multiple directions. It is an ideal destination for diving enthusiasts, swimming among coral reefs, as well as fishing and underwater photography.
Al Sawadi Beach
Al Sawadi Beach is one of the most famous and beautiful tourist destinations in Oman, particularly in Barka. This beach is known for its clear waters and soft sands, making it one of the clearest beaches in Oman. The rocky formations scattered across the beach resemble smooth pearls, adding a unique charm to the place. Therefore, the beach is an ideal spot for those looking to relax and enjoy the stunning natural beauty, providing them with a serene and refreshing experience for both the mind and soul.
Al Sawadi Beach is a special place for photography enthusiasts, especially those interested in bird photography, whether for resident or migratory birds. Thanks to its strategic location, the beach is one of the best places to observe and photograph birds in their natural habitat.
