Confused, What is Khareef? Why does it have so much hype between Omanis? Khareef means autumn in the Arabic language. The Khareef season usually hits the capital of the Dhofar region in late June and lasts till late August. The heart of the Arabian desert turns into a lush green paradise in the middle of the desert.
The temperature in Oman during the Khareef season doesn't rise more than 27 degrees. The season covers the land with lush green vegetation, hills surrounded by fog and drizzle 24 hours a day.
The waterfalls, stunning beaches, architecture, and refreshing atmosphere attract tourists to visit Salalah at least once in a lifetime. Honestly, the khareef season deserves the hype it has among the people around GCC.
How To Travel In The Country?
Before visiting any country, it is always wise to learn about the place you are exploring for a comfortable and seamless trip. These would include details of visas, weather, holidays and festivals, tourist spots to explore, warning for travellers, local customs and traditions, transportation, language and tax on arrival or departure.
The Sultanate's public transportation mode is only buses and taxis. So, renting a car from Selfdrive rental car is a great and comfortable option to reach all the spots you have planned to visit at a lesser price. Pick up the car as soon as you land at the Muscat International Airport or Salalah International Airport from our rental counter and drive your way to explore the beautiful country.
Spots To Explore
During the Khareef season, the Ministry of Tourism runs unique festivals like the Salalah Tourism Festival and the Khareef Festival to jubilate the Khareef season. These festivals feature special traditional performances beside stalls selling beautiful Omani handicrafts and traditional food.
Wadi Darbat
In Wadi Darbat, there are two incredible waterfalls. Wadi Darbat Waterfall and the second one is Cascade Waterfall, which appeared after the Mekunu cyclone. This waterfall is also known as Travertine Curtain.
Ensure to check if the water flows from the cliff. The water doesn't fall all season from the cliff. You can enjoy boating in Wadi's lake, motor boat and paddling boat. Wadi Darbat is the best place for barbeque in the entire country.
Mughsail Beach
During Khareef season Mughsail Beach is one of the best and main attractions in the Dhofar region. This long stretch of blue water contrasting with white sand makes a stunning photogenic view and is a perfect picnic spot. The mountain covers the Mughsail beach on both sides.
On the Mughsail beach, enjoy spotting various species of birds. Walk around the coastline to leave deep footprints behind on the soft sand. Make sure not to leave the beach before sunset because you will miss the scenic view.
Drive your Selfdrive rental car for 40-minute from Salalah to reach Mughsail beach with your rented car to get the refreshing and stunning view of Mughsail beach.
Ayn Athum Waterfall
The most elegant waterfall in Salalah is the Ayn Athum waterfall. It is only visible during the Khareef season. The waterfall is located outside the city and is one of the popular tourist attractions in the Khareef season. So, don't be surprised if you find a big crowd on the spot.
Tourists from GCC visit Ain Athum to enjoy the chilling weather during the monsoon. During the Khareef season, many small shops sell sliced fruits, toys for kids, grilled corn, umbrellas and other needed stuff. This would be an ideal time to spend a day in Salalah.
Dhofar Mountains
The arc-shaped mountains stretch almost 300km beside the coast towards the border with Yemen. Dhofar mountain acts as a barrier between the desert and the Arabian sea. There are a total number of 199 named mountains in Dhofar. It is the highest and the most prominent mountain in Jebal Samhan.
The arc-shaped mountains stretch almost 300km beside the coast towards the border with Yemen. Dhofar mountain acts as a barrier between the desert and the Arabian sea. There are a total number of 199 named mountains in Dhofar. It is the highest and the most prominent mountain in Jebal Samhan.
Haffa Souq
End the trip with some traditional shopping at the oldest market Haffa Souq. In these markets, tourists can find all the classical Omani goods. Like, Dhofar frankincense, perfumes, fridge magnets, traditional Omani clothes and other daily use items.
Show your bargaining skills to get the best deals. Take home some good-smelling fragrance of frankincense. The colourful clay burners of frankincense piled up in the markets give a great appealing view. The set is worth buying to take you back to memories of Oman in future.
What To Try?
The most famous traditional dish in Salalah, Meshkak, is made of Camel's meat. The Meshkak is marinated with special Omani spices and is served with either Omani rice or Omani bread. There are many stalls and restaurants around the country that serve this tantalizing dish. The best place to try the best Meshkak is in the stalls of Ittin plain. They also provide it with grilled chicken or beef.
Coconut is found everywhere in Salalah throughout the Khareef season. The ripe coconut trees beside many stalls selling fresh fruits and juices. Take a break between driving to quench your thirst.
End Line
Oman trip can be the best experience if you rent a car and enjoy a seamless drive from Selfdrive. So, Why are you still waiting? Download the Selfdrive.om app or just visit the website www.selfdrive.om to rent a car for your trip this Khareef season. Have a hassle-free renting experience in Oman starting from 1 day to 12 months.