Muscat: A mountain hiking event organized by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism concluded on Saturday in Wadi Bani Khalid, situated in the North Al Sharqiyah Governorate of Oman.
This two-day event, part of the executive program for Sur, the Arab Tourism Capital 2024, attracted over 150 hikers from various regions across the country.
The focus of the event was on key security and safety measures related to mountain hiking, providing participants with essential knowledge about safe practices in hiking and camping, and showcasing the unique experiences offered by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism in this domain.
The hike commenced from the water ponds area near the village of "Maqal" in Wadi Bani Khalid, starting at an elevation of 640 meters. The route then gradually ascended to the highest peak overlooking Wadi Bani Khalid, covering a distance of 4 to 5 kilometers, before continuing along mountain paths with a moderate incline until reaching the camping site in the village of Hloot, after a total distance of 20 kilometers.
The area stands at approximately 2050 meters above sea level.
On the following day, participants departed from the camping site in Hloot and trekked to the Niyabat of Tiwi in the Wilayat of Sur, covering an additional 30 kilometers.
This event reflects the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism’s commitment to promoting adventure activities and revitalizing traditional mountain trails, while ensuring adherence to safety and security standards in such endeavors.
The development of the mountain trail plays a significant role in improving the tourism experience, given that the Sultanate of Oman boasts a wealth of diverse geographical features, geological formations, and cultural heritage. Furthermore, it supports licensed specialized tourism companies endorsed by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism in organizing adventure excursions along these mountain trails, thereby fostering the growth of adventure tourism within the Sultanate of Oman.
