Wadi Bani Khalid, Muscat Overview

Being one of the most famous Wadis of Oman, Wadi Bani Khalid is popular for its large pools of emerald green water surrounded by tall palm trees. Unlike other wadis in Oman that are dry in the summer months, Wadi Bani Khalid is known to have a constant flow of water throughout the year. The rocky canyon and cliffs of the Hajar Mountains make it breathtakingly beautiful and is often touted as the "desert paradise". Located just 2.5 kms from Muscat, this is a favourite amongst hikers and is also a famous picnic spot.

One of the most accessible Wadis in the region, Wadi Bani Khalid has been developed with a bridge, seating areas and a restaurant. The pools of the wadi are perfect for swimming.

Wadi Bani Khalid is made up of two sections. The northern part is a leisure area which has palm trees, pristine pools and rock faces for picnics and swims, while the southern part (also known as Wadi Hayer) has a rocky terrain that is perfect for trekking and bouldering. It even includes Miqil Cave which is part of a cave network in the area that opens into a small waterfall.

Exploring Wadi Bani Khalid

1. Entering the Wadi: After reaching the premises of Wadi Bani Khalid and having parked your vehicle, you will see the first mesmerizing view of the place after walking for a few minutes. This is because a pool with crystal clear waters is situated close to the entrance of the Wadi. It also happens to be the largest of all the pools present at the Wadi Bani Khalid. From here, you will also get a panoramic view of bridges, seating areas, a restaurant and smooth rocky cliffs in the distance.

2. At the Wadi (Pools): It is up to you whether you want to reach the second pool via walk or by swimming in the waters. If you are going on foot, you need to use one of the bridges.

Note:
- It is advised to watch your step while climbing over the slippery canyon rocks and follow the signboards placed by the local authorities.
- Although lifeguards are present at all the pools to ensure your safety inside the waters, you would definitely not want to hit the pools without having an extra pair of clothing.

Waterway at Wadi bani Khalid — The waterway to the second pool
Source

3. Last Leg of the Wadi Exploration: The last stoppage point at the Wadi Bani Khalid is the Miqil Cave, which is situated at a distance of a few minutes ahead of the second set of pools.

Note: Since the interior of the cave is pitch dark, it is advised to visit the cave only if you are carrying a torch or lighting equipment with you.

Swimming at Wadi Bani Khalid

While at the Wadi Bani Khalid, you can indulge in some therapeutic swimming. For this, all you need to do is to ensure that you are carrying your swimming attire during your visit to the Wadi and that you have the permission to swim in those pools. Keep in mind that the waters can be pretty deep at certain spots and there are no safety railings or handled stoned aside either of the pools. Hence, it is advised to avoid swimming in the pools of Wadi Bani Khalid if you don’t know swimming properly.

Tips

1. Wear casual and loose clothing and carry sunscreen lotion along with sunglasses and caps/ hats to avoid getting a tan in the sun
2. Do not perform stunts such as jumping off the cliffs in the waters etc. at the place to avoid injuries and accidents
3. Fuel up your vehicle tank prior to beginning the trip to Wadi Bani Khalid
4. On weekends, Wadi Bani Khalid becomes very crowded. When visiting, try to avoid the afternoons for it is almost unbearably hot and the tree cover is limited.
5. When exploring Miqil Caves, remember to carry a flashlight and comfortable shoes. It's a medium to the small-sized cave which is known to have bats and can be claustrophobic for some.

How To Reach Wadi Bani Khalid

The Wadi Bani Khalid is situated at a distance of around 255 Km east of Muscat. To reach the Wadi Bani Khalid, you may either rent a car or hire a taxi vehicle. Since the place is situated in the middle of the desert, there is no other mode of transportation available other than the road to reach the place.

Step 1: By Car
To reach the place, you will have to go via Road 23, which connects the city of Muscat with the city of Sur. On reaching the district of Romail, you will have to take a secondary road for another half hour. The diversion here is sign-posted well in advance, so there's no worry about missing the turning. This secondary road makes for a pretty drive with fascinating green and red rock formations and date tree plantations on each side before you reach the wadi car park.

Step 2: By Walk
From there, reaching the wadi requires a ten-minute walk from the parking lot. Being situated in the desert region with no fuel pumps along the route, you need to ensure that your vehicle has sufficient fuel to reach the place and come back safely.

Dress Code

The Pools

- No bikinis are allowed. A one-piece swimsuit is allowed when the Wadi is less crowded. Otherwise, women have to wear a Tshirt over the swimsuit.
- Men are allowed to not wear a shirt when in the pools, but during the weekends it is advised to wear one as the Wadi is visited by many locals.

The Wadi

- Modest clothing is recommended for both men and women when at the Wadi.
- Swimwear of any sorts is not allowed anywhere else except the pools. So if you need to leave the pool to the Wadi, make sure you have a tshirt and a sarong on.