Situated on the north-eastern coast of Oman, the city of Sur, which is the capital of the Ash
Sharqiyah region and means ‘selling port’ in Arabic, proves a surprise package
as one approached along the highway. Unlike most “rich towns”, this place –
some 200 kms south of Muscat, makes an impact with its simplicity.
The Al Ayjah Lighthouse provides a
dazzling view of the sea and the modest architecture of the houses in the city.
Once you soak in this sight, there are more reasons to say “Wow”. Wadi Tiwi and
Wadi Ash Shab, where you can go boating, banishes the torpor that comes with
the soaring temperature – around 40°C – and creates the urge to hit the
beaches.
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But before you can do that, you have to
stop at one of the 10 “dhow” factories in Sur. Al Ayjah Dhow Factory – owned by
80-year-old Uncle Juma – has 50 workers, mainly from the Indian state of
Kerala. And you’ll be happy to know that some of them have been living
fulfilled lives while working at the factory for well over 25 years.
It is also a beautiful experience to
witness what goes behind the making of boats.
While walking along the streets of Sur, you get to see the City
Cinema hall, which has its last show till midnight and screens a mix of
Hollywood and Indian movies. The town also has popular eateries like KFC and
McDonald’s – otherwise quite rare to find in Oman.
As you cross the sea bridge over the distinctly green water, you
get a glimpse of multiple beaches, where the water beckons you to take a
plunge.
As you drive out of Sur, you’ll glimpse another mesmerising
landscape: The Hawiyat Najm Park, which has a 200-metre sinkhole filled with
sea water. The sinkhole, locals insist, came into existence after a meteor fell
there. It was a treat to watch people taking a dip and enjoying the water in
the sweltering heat of the desert.
If the picturesque landscape of Sur fails to captivate you, the
town – famous for its pearls – has some other facets that might blow your mind
away.
According to the local guides, around 120,000 locals living in
112 small localities in Sur, get “double salary”. How? Because of the charity
work done by the Bahwan brothers – Suhail and Saud. Since the last few decades,
the twins have been giving money and food products to the locals of Sur for
free.
All
said, Sur is an exotic town to visit, if you don’t mind the heat. And the
locals are really helpful and friendly. – Agencies
