I always enjoy exploring old villages in Oman and wandering around, looking at old mud homes, filaj irrigation systems, and lush date trees on farms. There’s also something very peaceful about the feeling that you’ve stepped back in time. This is the feeling when visiting Suroor Village Heritage Trail.
If you’re up for a drive not too far from Muscat, make sure to add this village to your list.
My friend took me here a few years ago after our Wadi Qurai hike to show us the farms and to take a few pictures of some of the ruins. It was very relaxing before making our way back to Muscat.
Heritage Walkway
The village now has a heritage walkway, offering visitors a chance to stroll around and step back in time.
Read more below about what to expect when visiting the heritage trail in Suroor Village.
Getting to Suroor Village Heritage Trail
My husband, Freddy, and I drove from Mutrah, which is an hour from Suroor. I typed “Poet’s Lane” into Maps for directions. As you get closer to the parking, the lanes narrow and become busy, so I suggest parking just outside the neighborhood.
Suroor Village Heritage Trail
The trail is marked, so visitors can go in either direction. Poet’s Lane and the old souq are some of the markers.
When walking on the flat stone pathway, look around to admire date trees, colorful old doors, and a few old ruins. The filaj is also part of the heritage walkway.
In the distance, you’ll also notice a mix of old and modern houses.
Cafes
There are plenty of cute cafes on the trail, but since we went on Eid in the early afternoon, they were closed. One of the cafes had half-globe tents, which would be great to escape the heat.
When to visit
Freddy and I braved the noon heat, but I recommend coming here after 5:30 pm in summer. In the winter, I would suggest the morning around 8 am or the afternoon after 4 pm, but I imagine it’s busier in the evenings.
Suroor Village
We decided we would definitely return when it’s cooler, but if you like exploring old villages, Suroor is worth a visit. There’s a small stall with Omani coffee and dates for visitors just before the parking.
Other places to visit.
If you’re interested in heritage, visit Fanja on the way back to Muscat. For other ideas to escape the heat in Oman, read my post here.