Omani tourism authorities have announced the launch of the longest tourist walkway at Nakhal in the South Al Batinah Governorate. 

 

The 3-km path will connect the historical Nakhil Fort with Ain Al Thawra Park, passing by numerous natural springs, aflaj (traditional irrigation systems), and agricultural villages along Wadi Nakhal, adding aesthetic value to the wilayat.

 

Shaikh Khalifa Saleh Al Busaidi, Wali of Nakhal, emphasised that the project aims to boost tourism in the wilayat while showcasing the scenic and natural attractions of the villages and farms along the route.

 

He added that the walkway will be implemented in multiple phases, with the first phase spanning one kilometre, followed by subsequent phases.

 

The total cost of the project, including service facilities, is expected to exceed RO1 million. It will feature lighting, stone or interlocking pavement, and several public amenities.

 

The Wali explained that local farmers whose lands the walkway traverses will be empowered to establish their own tourism projects in co-ordination with relevant authorities. 

 

These may include eco-lodges, cafes, and electric tourist vehicles to transport visitors from the fort to Ain Al Thawra Park. This initiative is expected to reduce traffic congestion at the park while generating job opportunities for the locals.-TradeArabia News Service