An unplanned and quick leisurely stroll in Mutrah and Kalbouh Park

While resting in the car, an idea suddenly appears in my mind. I have friends from Saudi Arabia who will come to Oman during the Eid Holiday. I am trying to figure out and plan an itinerary for them. So this is the very reason I made a request to my husband to take us to Mutrah, which as many folks have come to know, is one of the popular spots in Muscat.

Mutrah is an old capital’s core district and has grown into a vibrant trading and residential port area over the years. It is situated north-west coast of Muscat and a favorite destination among locals and tourists because of the many beautiful sights and scenes that enchant especially those who visits here the first time. Among the famous landmarks that you can find are the Mutrah Fort, Corniche, Forts, Incense Burner, Parks, Fountains, Fish Markets, and Muscat Harbor There are also an array of restaurants and cafes that offer affordable drinks and foodies while the Mutrah Souq is a famous shopping destination with many tiny stalls that sell antiques, silverware, textiles, spices, and herbal products.

But, other than being here many times, these places are not in my agenda today so we immediately head off to Bait Al Zubair, Bait Mumtaz Gallery, and Omani French museum to get its regular timings. I just want to know the best time to come here and meander around the area. I asked my hubby to take pictures of the schedules engraved on the walls.

The timings of Bait Al Zubair

The visiting schedule of Bait Muzna Gallery

The timings of Omani - French Museum

A very huge image HM Sultan Qaboos Bin Said hang on the wall of Bait Al Zubair

We supposed to go back to the harbor right away but because of its maze-like streets, we get lost a bit on our way out. Not until we drive down to the rear side of old palace where we see thick breakwaters and other huge forts. We stop for few minutes to take some photos and admire these old-aged structures.

the back view of Al Alam Palace

you can see those thick breakwaters especially during low tide

the Al Mirani fort 

Can you see another Watchtower at the far tip of the rocky mountain?

Then we make our way slowly along the walled area and pass a roundabout across the frontal entry to the Old Al Alam Palace. We have been here previously and I tell you the view is so lovely particularly at night because of the illuminating lights that accentuate the entire palace. During winter time, many colorful flowers are in bloom that also petrifies the whole surroundings. Then again, Jesse steps out of the car to take a snapshot.

the Al Alam Palace at day time

As we drive back to the marina, we take a right turn to Kalbouh Park. This is a park by the sea located by the village of Kalbouh. They say that this is a picturesque spot during an evening stroll. I can imagine that because of the amazing views of the sea to one side and the rocky hills to the other where you can clearly see the huge incense burner above.

You can see the Huge Incense Burner directly from Kalbouh Park

There are kiosks and grassed amphitheaters dotting around which are good resting places for family picnic or simply to hang out. There are also small cafes that sell snacks and drinks. But the far end of the park is walled with wooden frames because that portion was destroyed and had been washed out to the sea during a strong typhoon last year.

The pretty white kiosks dotted around the park along with grassed amphitheater

Thick walls overlooking to the rocky mountains upfront

with my kiddos as the afternoon stretches and heats up the entire park

more more white umbrellas over there...and little cafes to serve you with drinks and goodies

the tip most part is now a secluded area and better to stay away

However, still, I love this park especially the nice landscapes, paved walkways, and the cool sea breeze that will help me relax and certainly have a good time with my family.

The lovely park from the opposite side of the corniche

In today's quick and short visit in Mutrah, I have come to realize that it is ideal to be here in the late afternoon especially when the sun is about the descend and pave way to a lovely evening where the entire area will be frequented by people and enliven by all sorts of entertainment. As for Kalbouh park, we will definitely come back here during the winter months and have a picnic the whole day.