With a coastline that extends over 3000 kilometres, Oman is quite a revelation, especially in comparision to its Middle Eastern neighbours. Middle Eastern mythology says that Sinbad the Sailor was born in Oman and he set sail on his legendary voyages from Sohar, a maritime port in the northern part of the country. On a recent visit, I decided to explore its water-based secrets. Accordingly, I planned to explore Wadi Saab and Bimmah Sinkhole to learn more about the country that rightfully markets itself with the hashtag ‘Beauty Has An Address’.
Water Calling
My first stop was at Wadi Shab in Tiwi, part of Sur, a city in the Al Sharqiyah region. The road curved downwards as we approached . Graffiti, on large pillars, welcomes you to Wadi Saab that is also home to a variety of local goats. Interestingly there are many plants here and if you lower the branches, a herd of goats will actually come up to you to eat the leaves! The first sight is picture perfect with the green waters flowing amidst brown hillocks and swaying palms. This is a water body created with the fresh water that cascades from the top of the mountains meeting the briny sea water on its banks. It is responsible for the environmental diversity unique to this ‘wadi’ (meaning valley). It is best to explore the interiors via a boat that is available here or if you feel more adventurous you can take a hike through the area. The primary attraction here, however, is the waterfall in the cave which will need you to walk for about 40 minutes and swim in a few pools before reaching the destination. While swimming, be careful, as at times the water level increases,especially after rains.There are ropes in the cave that can help you climb the waterfall as well. However, a boat ride is a great way to soak in the sights and sounds of nature here. En route, do not forget to admire the old semi-demolished houses at one of the cliffs as these were used to house cattle in the olden days. If you decide to hike, make sure you have a sturdy pair of shoes as it will come in handy while trekking the rocky cliff.
Nature’s Pool
Located in Hawiyat Najm Park, Bimmah Sinkhole translates to ‘meteor fall’ in Arabic and is about 40 metres wide and 20 metres deep. Said to be one of the world most beautiful sinkholes, this one has beautiful clear turquoise green waters . According to local legend the hole was formed due to a meteor falling in this spot but scientifically, this is a natural phenomenon occurring from limestone erosion and the collapse of the rocks around it. Sinkholes are formed when groundwater travels through easily dissolved rocks such as limestone, salt beads and carbonates. It eats away at the rock leaving caverns and holes like this.
I was told that the sinkhole is also connected to the sea through an underground tunnel, which explains the distinct colour of the water. A long flight of 80 steps takes you to the bottom of the sink hole, a popular swimming spot.
The waters are home to several fish too and a swim here is refreshing. Of course, if you do not want to swim, the park is a great place to spend time and watch the biodiversity around. The spot has become more popular after being featured in a Nike commercial “Make It Count” where the actor actually jumped right in from the top (which is certainly not advisable). The best time to visit this place is in the morning, when it is not too crowded. Seeing these attractions in Oman reminded me of Auden’s quote: ‘water is the soul of the earth’.
Traveller Tips
*Protect yourself with adequate sunscreen and a hat as the sun is quite harsh here.
*Carry swimming clothes and a towel.
*Have a waterproof bag handy as it will help clicking pictures inside the cave in Wadi Saab.
