Location :
The State of Nakhal is one of the biggest states of South Batinah Governorate, located in the western Hajar Mountains, at the foot of the Mount Shaiba, neighbouring the states of Wali al Mawael, Barka and Rustaq. It is a mere 116 Km from the capital of Muscat, reigning an area of 10000 square kilometres and a population of 21,208 (according to 2011 census) The state distinguishes itself with its unique geographical location, since the cities of Halban and Boa neighbour Muscat so closely, particularly neighbouring he highest density populated area in Muscat, Al Khoud. The city has an established infrastructure with several government service agencies, public schools and medical centre, as well on-going projects such as a sports centre. The state relies on groundwater and spring mineral water in its highly fertile agricultural lands, with produces such as lemons and mangoes, as well as produces such as Pommegranats, grapes and apricotrs, particularly in the Wadi Mistal area
History :
Nakhal is a historical landmark of a city, with regional significance dating back to before the age of Islam. With its location surrounded by mountains and shade, its fortification has a history dating back at least 1000 years. Amongst countless other historical monuments, stands the Ghareeth mosque, which has inscribing indicating it was built in 1517. As well as Almukabbar mosque, engraved with brilliant Islamic age calligraphy, built in the tenth century. As for the Nakhal mosque, which was rebuilt in 994 Hijri, it was said it dates back to over 600 years before its rebuilding, and it was witness to a pledge of allegiance to Nasser bin Murshid
Landmarks :
Nakhal fort
One of the oldest fortifications in the region, Nakhal fort was built on a rocky hill reaching up to 200 feet. As it currently stands, it was built in the 17th century, but its origins and the base fort is over 1500 years old. A small bridge passes thereunder incorporating multiple towers to the east and west. In the year 1200, the Yaariba dynasty rebuilt the fort and made additions, and in 1250 Hijri, the Sultan Saeed bin Sultan renew the fort, adding the walls and large central gate. The fort is surrounded by countless palm trees and is considered a primary tourist attraction for both local and foreign tourists.
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Thuwara Hot Springs
Thuwara is a hot spring of mineral water flowing from the deep mountains throughout the year. The name Thuwara, stems from the Arabic meaning ‘to errupt’. The water irrigates the area’s farms and is considered one of the top tourist attractions in the country.
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Wadi Mistil
Wadi mistil envelopes within in several mountainous villages, and its 36 km away from Nakhal’s Centre. It is a national attraction since it lies 3000feet on the mountains, with green fields where fruits such as apricots, grapes and pomegranates grow. There is also a hiking trail linking it to the villages of Jabal Akhdar.
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Wadi alabyadh
25km away from the City’s centre, the water flows in this wadi during the rainy seasons and the edges are covered with trees and palm trees alike, making the wadi a spectacular scene. Belonging to the wadi are several villages, such as Khabat Alqaadan where the high sand dunes present a place where hobbyists can participate in desert crossing and motorbike trekking, as well as being a great place for camping.
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Traditional Souq
Nakhal specializes in several forms of traditional industries, most importantly:
1. Clay pottery used in Forts building and traditional architecture
2. Items created from Palm tree branches and leaves
3. Carpentry and calligraphic engravings
4. Omani Halwa 5. Blacksmithing
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