MUSCAT : The total number of visitors to Wakan Village in Wadi Mistal, Wilayat of Nakhl in South Al Batinah Governorate, reached 39,976 in 2025, up from 36,759 in 2024, reflecting the village’s growing popularity as a tourism destination among visitors from within and outside the Sultanate of Oman.

The increase has been attributed to the village’s distinctive natural environment and the range of outdoor experiences it offers, including hiking along agricultural terraces and ancient mountain paths, which have become particularly popular with adventure enthusiasts.

Dr. Al-Mu’tasim Nasser Al Hilali, Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in South Al Batinah, said Wakan recorded a notable rise in annual visitor numbers, increasing from 35,302 in 2023 to nearly 40,000 in 2025. He attributed this growth largely to the village’s moderate and cool climate, which attracts tourists seeking scenic landscapes, particularly during the apricot and peach blossom season.

He explained that the blossom season, which usually begins between January and February, transforms the village into a landscape of white and pink blooms, creating a rare natural spectacle often compared to Japan’s cherry blossom (Sakura) season and drawing large numbers of photographers and tourists.

Dr Al Hilali added that visitor numbers also rise during official holidays and weekends, coinciding with the grape harvest season and the drop in winter temperatures due to the village’s elevation of around 2,000 metres above sea level. Winter is considered the ideal season for hiking the 700 steps leading to the top of the village, offering a more comfortable and enjoyable experience amid the agricultural terraces.

He noted that the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is currently working on developing and securing mountain trails through the installation of safety barriers and rest areas, as well as supporting local residents in establishing guest houses and heritage lodges by converting traditional homes into tourism projects.

Ongoing cooperation between the Heritage and Tourism Department and relevant authorities in South Al Batinah is also focused on improving parking facilities, providing essential services such as information centres, and offering guidance to residents on developing organised tourist attractions. Efforts are underway to promote Wakan as a key destination on the governorate’s tourism map.

Dr Al Hilali also revealed that a study is being conducted into the possibility of a cable car project or alternative transport solutions to ease traffic congestion on the ascent to the village, in addition to coordination with the Royal Oman Police to manage traffic flow during peak periods.

Wakan Village is regarded as one of South Al Batinah’s most prominent tourist attractions, owing to its cool winter climate and mild summer weather. Located in the Western Hajar Mountains, the village benefits from favourable agricultural conditions, supporting the cultivation of crops such as apricot, pomegranate, peach, walnut and grapes throughout the year.

For all the latest news from Oman and GCC, follow us on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn, like us on Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube page, which is updated daily.