Nizwa Fort and Souq day trip

Nizwa is the main town of the Omani interior and the most popular day trip inland from Muscat. Its centrepiece is Nizwa Fort, one of the finest pieces of defensive architecture built by Omanis. The fort was built in the mid-17th century under Imam Sultan bin Saif bin Malik Al Ya'rubi, who ruled from 1649 to 1679, and for centuries it served as the centre of local government, the Imam's residence and a prison.

The highlight is the great circular tower, which rises about 34 metres and measures 45 metres across. According to the fort's own website it took twelve years to build, and it stands on a base of packed stone about 15 metres high. The defences are clever: cannon openings face out over the town, and the narrow entrance stair twists in the shape of the Arabic letter ha, with seven doors along the way, each set at a turn and overlooked by openings from above. Climb to the top for wide views over the town, its palm groves and the mountains beyond. The rest of the fort is a warren of rooms, courtyards and passages that show how it worked as a seat of government and a home. Tickets are bought at the reception desk on site.

The national tourism site lists opening hours of 8am to 8pm from Saturday to Thursday, with different hours on Friday, so check before you set out. The fort is listed as wheelchair accessible in parts, although the tower itself involves steep steps. Allow one and a half to two hours for the fort, then time for the souq next door, which is known for its handicrafts and is a good place to compare quality before buying souvenirs.

Start early. The drive from Muscat takes around one and a half to two hours on the main highway into the interior, and arriving in the morning means cooler temperatures and a livelier souq. Modest dress is expected in Nizwa, which is a more conservative town than the capital. The trip suits history lovers, photographers and families with older children.

Nizwa is also the gateway to other sights in Al Dakhiliyah. Jabreen Castle and Bahla Fort are both within reach for a longer day. Several Muscat tour operators run full-day Nizwa tours, which saves the driving and usually adds a stop at a traditional village.