Fanja is considered the gateway of Al Dakhiliyah region as it is the first city that welcomes the visitors while leaving Muscat. In fact, it is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the Wilayat of Bid Bid in Al Dakhiliyah region.

Fanja, about 25 km away from Muscat, is blessed with a very rich cultural heritage and spectacular natural landscapes. Its civilisation, which dates back to 5,000 years, still exists along with modern development; it is a city with a hidden beauty that is yet to be explored.

Fanja offers a unique mixture of old and new landmarks that represent the real image of the city. It comprises many ancient buildings like towers, castles and old houses built of mud on the mountains overlooking the wadi.

Some of the traditional landmarks are Al Sharqi Castle and Al Bomah Castle as well as two other towers Al Khatum Castle and Kaid Castle which were rebuilt after the dawn of the Renaissance era in the Sultanate.

The city also includes some traditional mosques, some of which are Al Khatum, Natael and Al Jame’a. Like any other Omani village, Fanja has many aflaj that are used as the source of water for farms. Some of these aflaj are Al Rasah, Al Sharjah and Tawi Mansoor.

However, there are two aflaj — East and West Hamam aflaj — with hot water which is believed to have properties that can cure skin diseases. There are a number of different date palms grown in Fanja such as Naghal, Fardh, Handhal, Khanizi, Mabsali, Khasab and some other best dates.

What distinguishes the place is that it has a unique traditional souq at the doorway of the city. The souq was located in the old shopping area of the city, but it was later shifted to the present location four years ago.

Many people from Fanja and the neighbouring villages come to the souq either as buyers or sellers who exhibit their products. The souq showcases a wonderful collection of handicrafts that are locally made.

Some of the displayed products in the souq are traditional pots and jars made of pottery.

The pottery items, usually used as decorative pieces, are well-made and beautifully decorated with different shapes and colours. There are also coffee pots, leather goods, antiques and household products as well as dried fish displayed in the yard of the souq.

This outstanding souq also includes artistic products made of wood such as decorated boxes, called Mandoos, in which people used to keep clothes.

Some other traditional products made of date palm leaves are also exhibited. The souq attracts people not only from Fanja, but from different places of the Sultanate.

Wadi Fanja often has running water especially after usual seasons of rain. Most of the residents and visitors enjoy lovely evenings here, especially on weekends.

The wadi is beautiful as it is surrounded by date palms and other trees. The peaceful and tranquil place offers ambience for a great day out.

Fanja’s rich cultural heritage reflects the ancient past of the city. Some archaeological studies, including projects by Sultan Qaboos University, have found out that the old village had a glorious history.

Fanja was once a business hub and the wealthy people of Fanja had expanded their trade ties to Zanzibar, India and Africa.

In short, Fanja surprises its visitors with its beauty! The blend of palm trees, mountains and wadi water makes an incredible view!

The best time of the year to visit Fanja is between October and April. During this period, the weather is warm in the day and cool in the evening. The temperature varies between 25 and 35 degrees during the day and ranges from 17 to 19 degrees at night.