Bahla & Jabrin: forts, castles and ancient walls

Just beyond Nizwa lie two of the most impressive monuments in Arabia. Bahla Fort is a vast mud-brick fortress and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is surrounded by an oasis town and a wall that once stretched for kilometres. A short drive away, Jabrin Castle is often called the most beautiful castle in Oman, famous for its painted ceilings and elegant rooms.

Top things to see and do

• Bahla Fort: Walk through the restored towers and courtyards of this enormous adobe fort, built mainly between the 13th and 14th centuries.
• Bahla old town and oasis: Explore the palm gardens, falaj water channels and remains of the old town wall.
• Bahla pottery: The town has a long tradition of clay pottery. Visit a local workshop and see the potters at work.
• Jabrin Castle: Built in the late 17th century as a palace, it has beautifully decorated wooden ceilings, hidden staircases and a rooftop with views over the palm groves.

Best time to visit

Visit between October and April, in the morning when the light is soft and the temperature is comfortable. Check opening days before you go, as hours can change on Fridays and public holidays.

Getting there

Bahla is about 2 hours by car from Muscat and 30 minutes beyond Nizwa. Jabrin is about 10 to 15 minutes from Bahla. Both fit perfectly into a day trip with Nizwa.

Travel tips

• Wear comfortable shoes, as there are many steep steps and uneven floors.
• Bring water and a hat, because the courtyards can be hot even in winter.
• Allow about an hour for each site.

Explore Bahla & Jabrin with Gotour

Join a private tour with a local guide, or combine Bahla & Jabrin with other highlights of Oman on a multi-day trip. See our tours or contact us to plan your trip.

Photos: Albinfo (CC BY 4.0), Davide Mauro and Muck (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons.