What to See in Sur City (Oman)
Have you been thinking of visiting a golden paradise for your holiday? Sur City may be just the place you need to relax. Located on the Gulf of Oman, this coastal city is the Ash Sharqiyah South Governorate capital city. It is about 203 km southeast of Muscat, Oman’s capital city. Sur City has a long history that dates back to the Middle Ages when the city was an important seaport connecting Asia to Africa. Today is still of great importance to Oman and boosts many tourist attractions that you can visit.
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History of Sur City
Sur City was established in the 6th AD as a trading center on the Gulf of Oman. It quickly grew to become an important trading centre on the East Africa-Asia trading route. The growing importance of the city attracted many enemies and it was soon conquered by the Portuguese who ruled it until the 16th century when Imam Nasir ibn Murshid of Omen fought the invaders and liberated it. The city then regained its former glory as a leading trading centre with the Far East, India, and East Africa. The city began to decline in the mid-19th century when the Britons who colonized most of East Africa and Asia outlawed the slave trade. Further, the construction of the Suez Canal took many businesses from the port city as it shortened the trade route between Europe and Asia.
When to Visit
Sur City has a semi-arid climatic condition which makes it a perfect place to visit at any time of the year. The wettest month is March and the driest month is September this is important in deciding when to visit. Most visitors come during the winter season in Europe as Sur City retains its warm temperatures throughout the year. If you want to see some vegetation and enjoy the rainy season, then March is your perfect time to visit.
Where to Stay
Sur City is known for its many tourist-grade accommodation facilities. While it may not boost many internationally recognized names in the hotel industry it does have some decent facilities that are patronized by thousands of tourists each year. Some of the leading hotels you can stay in include the Sur Grand Hotel and the Sur Plaza Hotel.
If you want to stay close to nature, then you should consider visiting the Tuttle Reserve. This animal century located in Ras Al Jinz is surrounded by many awesome tourism accommodation facilities. Some of the best you can consider include Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve Hotel and the Turtle Guest House.
Attractions in Sur City
Known for its stunning landscapes, enchanting waterfront, and rich cultural heritage, Sur City is an awesome place to visit any time of the year. The city is known for several tourist attractions and historical sites that pull in visitors year in and year out. If you are coming to Sur City for the first time, here are some of the places you should visit:
1. Visit the Sur Castle
The Sur Castle which is sometimes referred to as Bilad Sur Castle or simply as Sunaysilah Castle is Sur City’s top tourist attraction. The Castle is a historic fortress that holds important cultural significance to the city. It was built by the Portuguese conquerors in the 16th century as a stronghold for defending the territory from sea attacks.
Located in the old Sur City, this castle offers visitors breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea as well as the city. As a well-preserved tower, it’s a great place to learn about the history of the city as well as the old Oman, Portuguese and Indian architectural heritage.
2. Climb Al Ayjah Watchtower
If you love having stunning views of both the city and the Arabian Sea then you should make a point to visit the Al Ayjah Watchtower. This imposing structure was built in the 16th century and was used to protect the city from invaders coming in through the Al AyJah fishing village. It holds important historical significance to the city and offers you an opportunity to learn more about the city’s history. It has been turned into a museum showcasing the history of the city and especially its rich maritime heritage. You can expect to find a lot of historical artefacts on display that tell the true story of the Sur city.
3. Visit Ras Al Hadd Attractions
Ras Al Hadd is one of one of Sur City’s most celebrated tourist attractions. It is loved for its breathtaking natural landscapes and other captivating attractions. The must-see attraction is the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve. One of the most important spots on this vast reserve that you must visit is the Ras Al Hadd. This is a sanctuary dedicated to the preservation of endangered green turtles. Visiting this sanctuary gives you the rare opportunity to observe the nesting and hatching processes of these remarkable creatures. Another great attraction here is the Ras Al Hadd Castle. This historic castle was constructed in the 17th century and will offer you invaluable insights into the region’s rich heritage. Other attractions to see in Ras Ak Hadd include Ras Al Hadd Beach, Ras Al Hadd Fort, Traditional Dhow Building Yard, Ras Al Hadd Fishing Village and Wahiba Sands.
4. Visit the Turtle Beach
Turtle Beach is another awesome tourist destination in Sur City that you should visit. It is a perfect destination if you love spotting wildlife and admiring nature. This unspoiled coastline boasts pristine sandy stretches, azure waters, and a remarkable population of sea turtles. During the nesting season spanning from May to September, Turtle Beach becomes a sanctuary for thousands of endangered green turtles as they journey to the shore to lay their eggs.
5. Picnic in the Qurum National Park
Qurum National Park offers a tranquil escape from the urban centre of Sur City. It boasts surprisingly interesting well well-maintained vegetation and flowers that are a contrast to the surrounding dry arid lands. As a visitor, you will be delighted to picnic in this park’s serene ambience. As a haven for families, Qurum National Park is the perfect place to visit for families with children. It also offers breathtaking views of the sea and is perfect for hosting various cultural activities. Visiting this park is perfect for any lazy day as it is closest to all the amenities a tourist will want.
Conclusion
Sur City presents a myriad of captivating destinations that will delight your heart. From the pristine shores of Turtle Beach to the historic allure of Ras Al Hadd Castle, Sur offers a diverse array of experiences sure to enchant anyone who visits this historic city. The lush tranquility of Qurum National Park provides a serene escape amidst the bustling city, while the cultural vibrancy of local art exhibitions adds an extra layer of depth to the city’s allure. Whether you are on a honeymoon or a leisure trip visiting Sur City offers you an unforgettable experience.
