Visit Sur City, a must see destination during your visit to Oman. A place of rich heritage, history and beautiful landscapes.


Visit Sur City, a must see destination during your visit to Oman. A place of rich heritage, history and beautiful landscapes.

Road from Muscat to the Sur City

It was day 02 of my road trip and I had reach my third destination so I started driving by around 04Pm, considering that I will be able to capture some natural scenes alongside the road to Sur.

The road from Muscat to Oman's Sur City is filled with breathtaking natural beauty. You are surrounded by towering peaks that stretch up to the sky as you wind your way through the winding mountain ranges. These magnificent mountains are a photographer's dream, with countless opportunities to capture the perfect shot.

The Al Hajar Mountains are one of the most breathtaking sights along the way. With their jagged edges and dramatic cliffs, these rugged peaks are a sight to behold. The roads wind through the mountains, allowing you to appreciate the scenery from every angle. The rocks are a rainbow of orange, brown, and grey, making for a spectacular sight.

Al Hajar Mountain Range. Photo taken with Nikon D810 & Nikon 70-200mm F2.8 FL ED VR

The Wadi Shab, a stunning oasis nestled in the mountains, is another highlight of the journey. The crystal clear water and lush greenery contrast sharply with the rugged terrain surrounding it. It's a great place to pull over and take a break from the road, as well as photograph the natural beauty of the area.

Welcome to Sur, A City Filled with Nature, History & Heritage

Travel Blog - Sur, Oman. Photo taken with Nikon D810 & Nikon 70-200mm F2.8 FL ED VR

Any traveler would have a memorable image of Sur, a coastal city in Oman's Eastern Region, thanks to its rich history and tradition. Sur is a must-visit location for anybody interested in Oman's rich cultural legacy. It is known for its watch towers, lighthouses, and breathtaking natural beauty.

History & Heritage of Sur, Oman.

Sur was a major trading port and frankincense trade center in ancient times. Because of its location on the Gulf of Oman, the city was an excellent location for trade with other civilizations such as Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley. The nearby ancient city of Sumhuram is thought to have been an important frankincense trading center during the 3rd century BC.

Sur has a long maritime history. The city was known for its shipbuilding industry in the 16th century, and it played an important role in the Omani Empire's naval expansion. The city's traditional dhow-building yards can still be seen today, and the city remains an important boat-building center in Oman. Sur has recently undergone significant development and modernization. Its traditional charm and cultural heritage, however, remain. The Old Souk, or market, in the city is a must-see for visitors because it provides a glimpse into Oman's traditional way of life. Visitors can also take a boat tour of Sumhuram's historic city or visit the Sur Heritage Village to learn more about the city's history and culture.

Travel Blog - Sur, Oman. Photo taken with Nikon D810 & Nikon 70-200mm F2.8 FL ED VR

People of Sur, Oman

People of Sur, Oman. A Travel blog Sur, Oman. A City full of heriatge and omani history.

Sur's people are proud of their heritage and are known for their warm hospitality, making it a must-see destination for those interested in learning more about Oman's cultural and historical heritage.

Sur's culture is deeply rooted in its historical context. Sur's people have a strong appreciation for their traditions, with many still following customs passed down from generation to generation. This is visible in their daily lives, from their food to their clothing to their social customs and traditions.

The Sur people's traditional dress reflects their cultural heritage. Men typically wear the dishdasha, a long, white, collarless gown that reaches the ankles, with a kuma headscarf. Women cover their bodies with the abaya, a long, black, loose-fitting dress, and a headscarf. Sur's people still dress in this traditional attire, especially for special occasions and festivals.

Photo on the left is of fine gentleman I met in Sur. He interacted with me like we knew each others for years. It was a pleasure meeting you my friend, Yazeed.

The Famous Lighthouse of Sur

The British East India Company built the lighthouse in 1864 to protect ships traveling to and from the port of Sur. The original structure was made of mud brick, but it was rebuilt in the early 1900s with concrete and steel to withstand the harsh coastal weather.

The lighthouse is 23 meters tall and has a visibility range of 17 nautical miles. It has a one-of-a-kind design, with a spiral staircase leading to the top, where the light is located. The light flashes every 15 seconds and can be seen from miles distance. It has played an important role in Oman's maritime history throughout its history. It has assisted ships in navigating treacherous waters and avoiding the rocky coast, saving countless lives and cargo. The lighthouse was also important in the development of Sur, as it drew many merchants and traders to the port.

Despite its age, the lighthouse is still in use and a popular tourist destination. Climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the Gulf of Oman and the surrounding area. The lighthouse, which is a reminder of Oman's rich maritime history, has also been restored and preserved as a national heritage site.

Travel Blog - Sur, Oman. Photo taken with Nikon D810 & Nikon 70-200mm F2.8 FL ED VR

Bilad Sur Castle - A Historic Site

Welcome to the Bilad Sur Castle's history in Sur, Oman! This castle, also known as the Castle of Sur, is a stunning example of traditional Omani architecture and an important part of the country's cultural heritage.

During the reign of the Yaruba dynasty in the 17th century, the castle served as a defensive fortress and residence for the local governor. The castle was constructed using traditional methods, with walls made of mud and stone and intricate geometric patterns.

Bilad Sur Castle of Sur, Oman. Photo taken with Nikon D810 & Nikon 70-200mm F2.8 FL ED VR

The castle's unique layout, which includes a central courtyard surrounded by rooms and halls, is one of its most intriguing features. The courtyard hosted community gatherings and ceremonies, while the rooms and halls housed residents and storage. There was also a rooftop terrace on the castle, which provided a great vantage point for spotting approaching enemies.

The castle was an important defensive structure during its time and played an important role in the history of the region. The castle is open to the public, and visitors can explore its many rooms and halls while learning about the region's history and the castle's role in it.

Beautiful Landscapes of Sur, Oman.

Sur is also known for its beautiful beaches and stunning natural beauty. The Gulf of Oman is a great place to explore and enjoy the beautiful scenery, and visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and other water activities. The city is also home to many beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Al Ayjah Park, which offers a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Travel Blog - Sur, Oman. Photo taken with Nikon D810 & Nikon 70-200mm F2.8 FL ED VR

Because the city is located on the coast, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean from nearly every vantage point. The beauty of the Gulf of Oman will captivate you whether you're looking out over the water from one of the city's many parks and gardens or taking a boat tour to explore the coastline.

Travel Blog - Sur, Oman. Photo taken with Nikon D810 & Nikon 70-200mm F2.8 FL ED VR

Sur's people are warm and welcoming, and they are proud of their city's rich history and culture. Visitors can learn about the local culture by visiting traditional markets and purchasing traditional Omani crafts and souvenirs. There are also many traditional Omani restaurants in the city where visitors can sample local delicacies like machboos and harees.

Boat Building Industry of Sur, Oman.

Sur, Oman's boat building industry is a traditional and significant industry that has been a part of the city's history for centuries. The city is well-known for its skilled boat builders and craftsmen who construct a variety of boats using traditional techniques and materials. Traditional wooden dhow boats, fishing boats, and leisure boats are among them.

Dhow boats, in particular, play an important role in Sur's boat building industry. These boats are known for their durability and seaworthiness and are used for fishing and trading. Dhow boats are typically constructed of wood and handcrafted by skilled boat builders using traditional methods. They are frequently adorned with intricate carvings and brightly colored paint.

Sur's fishing boats are an important part of the boat building industry. These boats are built to last, able to withstand the rough seas and harsh weather conditions of the Gulf of Oman. They are typically constructed of fiberglass and outfitted with modern fishing equipment.

Sur's leisure boats are becoming more popular as the city's tourism industry grows. These boats are intended for leisure purposes such as sightseeing and water sports. They are typically made of fiberglass and have modern amenities such as air conditioning and sound systems.

Best Time to Visit Sur, Oman

For travelers, the best time to visit Muscat, Oman is between October and April, when the weather is mild and comfortable. The temperature ranges from the mid-70s to the low 80s (Fahrenheit) during the day and drops to the mid-50s to the low 60s at night. This is also peak tourist season, so book accommodations and plan activities ahead of time. It's worth noting that June through September can be extremely hot, with temperatures reaching up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit, making outdoor activities difficult.

Summary

In conclusion, Sur is a city rich in history, heritage, and natural beauty. Sur is a must-see destination for anyone interested in Oman's rich cultural heritage, with its ancient ruins, watch towers, lighthouses, stunning beaches, and friendly people. Sur is a great place to visit and will leave a lasting impression on any traveler, whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing vacation.



Camera Used in This Blog


Muhammad Abu Bakar

Nature Photographer based in United Arab Emirates. 

https://www.abubakarphotography.com
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