Currently, Wadi Tanuf in the Wilayat of Nizwa is one of the most important and beautiful natural sites that attract tourists. The flow of the valleys, the flow of the waters of the canals and the water springs form an aesthetic painting that we rarely see at this time of the year.
The Tanuf Falaj is one of the most famous and oldest falajs in the Wilayat of Nizwa, as its name is associated with a long history, as it passes through the middle of Tanuf fortress and the Imam Salim bin Rashid al Kharousi Mosque. This falaj was previously known as Falaj (Al Hayqi), and it was built before the Ya’ariba era.
This falaj descends from the slope of the mountain and consists of three arms: the main arm in which the water coming from the source of the falaj flows and passes in the middle of the “Al Hijri” valley east of the “Al Nathd” cave. The mountain, and the third arm is called “Al Suwayr”, and it feeds the falaj when the wadi flow.
The Tanuf Falaj covers an area estimated at more than half a square kilometre. The Falaj, like other aflaj, has received attention from the government in its maintenance in several stages, the most important of which is the conversion of the previous waterwheel and the construction of a new water wheel with a depth of about 40 feet next to the Wadi Tanuf Dam.
After the continuation of the seasonal rains, the trees of the valley grew and became green, pleasing the onlookers, and these trees now provide a good haven for tourists to spend a whole day under the shade of these trees and near fresh water.
Among the most important trees: Sidr and Ghaf trees, which shelter dozens of species of birds, butterflies and wild animals.
“These trees represent a safe haven for the elements of biodiversity, and thus many of these species shelter in these trees, in addition to providing a good climate for reproduction throughout the year”, locals told the Observer.
“Some people still benefit from the plant diversity in this valley for medicinal uses, as many diseases such as skin allergies, fractures and rheumatism can be treated using natural herbs that people extract from wild plants that grow automatically in this fertile area”, they added.
During the recent periods, the land was covered with water, which led to the acceleration of the growth of trees and plants and the return of life to wild animals and birds, and the groups that depend on agriculture feel joy and rejoicing because the abundance of water makes it easier for them to plant their seeds and ensure a large harvest of their local products.
“We expect an abundant agricultural crop during this year and next. It is a matter of thanks and rejoicing. We are looking forward to more diversity of agricultural products, and local markets will witness greater activity during the coming period”, farmers explained.
Children and youth practice swimming and walking between the corridors of the valley and exploring the depths of the caves and heights of the mountains that surround it. The mountainous heights that surround the valley provide an opportunity to take panoramic photos to get rare and distinct shots.
“The location after the availability of water is very beautiful. We spend our day here without getting bored. We practice some hobbies and sports and cooperate in preparing some traditional dishes. We met many people. Wadi Tanuf provides us with valuable opportunities to exchange conversations and ideas with those we meet in this distinguished tourist site”, said an Omani tourist.
