MUSCAT : If you have not made any travel plans for the holidays, this is the right time to explore some of the popular destinations right here in Oman. Below are a few options to check out and plan ahead to make the most of your holidays with friends and family.

Jabal Akhdar: This is, perhaps, the most popular destination for Muscat residents, owing to its proximity to the city as well as the recent weather conditions. It is located about 150 km from Muscat and requires a four-wheel drive to get to the top; however, there are tour operators and even private taxis operating at the base of the mountain to take you all the way up to the top. It has lush fruit farms and hidden villages to explore.

Jabal Shams: Jabal Shams, which translates as Sun Mountain is home to several attractions, including the local Grand Canyon. Located 240 km from Muscat, Jebel Shams is the highest mountain in the Al Hajar Mountain range and is easily reachable in a saloon car. It is ideal for camping and the weather tends to be cooler than the city. Alternatively, you could book space at one of the camping facilities, which will offer all comforts – from food to air-conditioned sleeping quarters.

Jabal Hatt: If you are a mountain person, this is another option to explore. It is located north of Al Hamra and is best known as a mountainous village. It offers picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and the traditional homes of residents below. Although the weather can get hot during this time of the year, it could provide a break from the everyday city life with its unique vistas.

Salalah: With the onset of the khareef season last week, Salalah, capital city of Dhofar Governorate, is your best bet to soak in some monsoon weather. The entire place is a haven for both locals and visitors from the region. It boasts of verdant mountains and striking waterfalls, presenting a panorama of touristic places to visit and enjoy. You could drive down to Salalah, take a bus or fly for a rendezvous with monsoon drizzles and cool winds.

Masirah Island: Masirah is one of Oman’s must-visit places; it is idyllic in every sense of the word. It has picture-perfect beaches, which promise to connect you with nature in perfect oneness, while helping you to relax and unwind from everyday work routine. This is, however, one of those far-off destinations that require planning, as the last part of the journey is aboard a ferry.

 Musandam: Popularly referred to as ‘Norway of Arabia’, owing to its spectacular fjord-like sunken khwars or valleys, it is a visually gratifying destination. You could fly from Muscat to Khasab, take a ferry or drive down for an up close and personal tryst with this beautiful gem.

Wadi Bani Khalid: Rated as the most popular wadi in the Sharqiyah region, it has all that a picnic spot should have – from pools of water to palm trees. It is a desert oasis that can get crowded during holidays owing to its myriad attractions. The weather could prove to be a dampener too, but its scenic splendour is worth the drive and the little heat.

Go on, explore Oman; feel the vibes of its natural beauty and its serene environment.