One AMONG MANY

Dipped in the magic of nature, the rocky façade of Saiq plateau – Al Jabal Al Akhdar – is a talisman that rises nine thousand and nine hundred feet above the sea level. Nearly two hundred kilometre south-west of the coastal plains, the gigantic limestone massif of Jabal Akhdar crowns the Sultanate of Oman with its riveting aura. The serpentine road that ascends to unfurl the stunning geographic folds, hits an altitude where the mercury plummets to lull the desert heat. Every season in Jabal Akhdar brings oodles of nature’s souvenir, making each visit worthwhile.

The sun rises to kiss the terrace gardens, where the falaj water is guided by the gravity. It provides a substantial amount of water to the plant roots for their required amount of daily nourishments. The soft burbles of the watercourse hums through the crevices of the steep irregular topography resonating vitality. The natural spring water cascades through these narrow channels called the falaj (dating back to 500 AD. Some of which are UNESCO Heritage sites), creating a maze like pattern along the steep ridges. The lushness that blooms along the falaj system is a pure bliss to behold. Three tiny villages – Al Aqur, Al Ayn and Al Shirayjah – perched along the undulated landscape of Oman’s green mountain clings to its ancient grounds.

Here time stops to endorse the serenity of nature, the simplicity of life that embraces the rugged wilderness, a history that heralds traditional abundance, and heart-warming welcome by the locals.

When the sun sets behind the jagged cliffs, it leaves behind a mystical sky tinted in deep orange that fades into an unpolluted darkness with million sparkling stars. As the night creeps in, this hilly hamlet retires to a deep slumber allowing the dazzling shooting stars to brighten up their dreams.

It’s Spring

It’s Summer:

When the air conditioner fails to negotiate with the desert heat in the month of June and July along the coastal plains, Jabal Akhdar with its soothing nippy breeze, lures the visitors to feel a cooler climate. Escaping the scorching heat to spend some days in the cradle of the tranquil hills come as a wonder during the summers. Sporadic rains during this time of the year, delineates an exciting vista with cascading waterfalls, a labyrinth of overflowing wadis and the mystic grey sky.

It’s Autumn:

Let the Jabal Akhdar rejuvenate your blood cells. It’s time to experience the crunch of juicy ruby red pomegranate seeds. The pomegranate harvest season from August to October in Jabal Akhdar opens a savoury door to its visitor. The mellow pomegranate groves ripens with bounty, offering a unique experience to its tourists. Walk along the falaj to behold the orchard that rolls down the hill. The redness of the fruit bursting with its healthy brilliance from amidst the green leaves quenches the thirst of every parched soul. Bring home a bagful of health and slurp a glass of bright red pomegranate juice. Spring in Jabal Akhdar greets the flowers that matures to juicy and wholesome fruits in autumn. The onset of September witnesses the cracking open of the ripened walnuts. Its nutty flavour irrefutably enhances the taste when added to any exotic desserts.  

It’s Winter:

The cold weather in the desert region offers a reason to rejoice after the scorching summer. It’s the time to leave behind the usual coastal ambience and ascend to Jabal Akhdar. Grab the woollies to feel its warmth in the winter months from December to February. The nippiness exhilarates the hilly atmosphere. The temperature plunges to as low as three degrees. As the frigid gust that hugs the hills, piping hot latte helps to thaw the sense organs. The winter night sky spreads a miraculous view for the star gazers. Watch the celestial bodies display their magnanimity and keep some wishes ready for the shooting stars. An early morning walk along the three villages during this time of the year is a must for the fitness fanatics and the regular visitors alike. Head to the hills to feel the chill and bask in winter sun.

The Stay:

Jabal Akhdar is a tourist hotspot with countless stay options. From five star hotels/resorts to rented apartments. Honestly we have experienced all the selections over the years. Recently our stay at Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort and Spa left us spellbound for its unparalleled sunset view at their highest altitude sunset viewing lounge. Every room is not only impressively spacious but majority of them embraces the panorama of expansive cliff offering their guest a window to view the majestic green mountain. The cliff pool suites render ultimate luxury in lap of solitary nature.  The service (starting from the reception desk, food and beverage team to the room services) offered by this boutique hotel left us agape. The moment we stepped in we were greeted with warmth and a healthy shot of pomegranate passionfruit and Jabal Akhdar rose extract. It not only quenched our thirst after the two hours long journey but aroused a keenness to explore the hospitality a little more. The service staffs’ relentless thoroughness made our stay even more memorable. We left the swanky abode with an urge to visit again to indulge in its opulence in the time to come.

“Having worked extensively across the ME region, I’m excited by the unique opportunity Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar represents. With the dramatic mountain setting and rich cultural heritage that surrounds this property, we have an exceptional story to tell, and I’m looking forward to introducing more travellers to this remarkable corner of Oman. Our Vue Rooftop & Lounge is the highest restaurant in Middle East, with its spectacular mountain vista. It is sure to enthrall all our guests.”

The friendly feline says:

“This article is not a promotional creation. It demonstrates the love for nature, culture and a warm welcome. The views put across are honest and personal, centred around the the attentive and impeccable hospitality that matters.“

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Content and Photograph Copyrights : Swati Basu Das