Nizwa is an ancient city in the Ad Dakhiliyah region of northern Oman. It sits on a plain characterized by seasonal rivers and palm plantations. It's known for Nizwa Fort, a castle with a huge cylindrical tower built in the 17th century to defend the city's position on a major trade route. The adjoining marketplace, Nizwa Souk, is lined with handicrafts stalls and silversmiths working in small shops.

Marked by a grand new double-arched gateway, the town forms a natural access point for the historic sites of Bahla and Jabrin, and for excursions up the mountain roads to Jebel Akhdar and Jebel Shams. Nizwa is now the second-biggest tourist destination in Oman. It was named the Capital of Islamic Culture in 2013. The city is known for date cultivation, the most highly prized varieties of which are khalas and khumaizi.

1. It combines a mixture of natural, historical, and contemporary civil elements.

2. Nizwa is renowned for its silver jewelry which is considered to be the best in the country.

3. Nizwa is tucked into the gorgeous Omani mountains, offering beautiful architecture, yummy food, bustling souqs and peace.

Here are some of the best things to do when in Nizwa.

Birkat Al Mouz Ruins : Birkat Al Mouz is a traditional village which is located in the Ad Dakhiliyah region (in Nizwa) of Oman. Being one of the most famous villages in ruins in the Sultanate and home to the traditional Falaj irrigation system which is listed as UNESCO world heritage, the Birkat Al Mouz Ruins deserves to be on your itinerary. You can find picturesque surroundings, two old ruins and a large banana plantation which is encircled by tall mountains. Moreover, you would get to know that how these tribal people lived in those mountains

Nizwa Fort : Nizwa Fort is Oman’s most visited and most famous monument and fort. Unlike its counterpart the Bahla Fort, this 17th century fort has not yet been included under UNESCO’s World Heritage Site. What it lacks in prominence, it makes up for in exhibits and study conducted intended to reveal the glorious past of the city. On Fridays, there is yet another sight to watch as locals bring their herds of sheep, goats and camels and parade them.

Oman Across Ages Museum : The Museum is a cultural and educational landmark for all Omanis taking the visitor on a vast, sweeping journey through time. It traces the story of Oman from the first settlers of prehistory to the present, spanning different ages, dynasties and civilisations. The Museum demonstrates Oman’s transition from its past glories, to the present and into the bright future in modern style using interactive, audio-visual displays.

Jabreen Castle : Jabreen Castle is famous for its battlements which is one of the most well-preserved monuments. The castle was built in the year 1675 by Imam Bil Arab Bin Sultan. In the ancient days, the castle was a centre of learning for various branches like astrology, medicine and Islamic law. The majestic castle has three storeys, two towers and enormous halls and rooms inside, showing the grandeur of the Imams of the time.

Bahla Fort : The Bahla Fort became the first, and only UNESCO listed Fort for Oman and it was added in 1987. There are three main sections inside the Bahla Fort, Al-Qasabah (oldest part), Bait al-Hadith (or new house built by the Ya’riba dynasty 1624-1743) and Bait Al-Jabal (which was erected in the 18th century).

Falaj Daris : A World Heritage Site at Nizwa and providing the town with the water that is needed for its plantations, the Falaj Daris is the largest falaj in Oman. A small section of the falaj has been turned into a park where locals frequent! It is said that this ancient Falaj goes back to 2500 BC! The falaj is a fun place to rest and relax on your holiday in Nizwa!