Day: One sunny afternoon on a boring Friday.
A sudden idea: To explore the idyllic town of Khorfakkan (part of Sharjah), bordering on the blue waters of Gulf of Oman on the east coast.
Flop no 1: On the road only by 4 pm.
Travel route and time: Took the Dhaid road, almost two hours with stops for rest.
Agenda: Khorfakkan beach before sunset, the Al Bidiyah mosque, the Friday market at Masafi.
Travel alert no 1: Be ready for a humid climate and do wear cool summer cottons, the moment you get out of the car, the heaviness of the air welcomes you.
Travel alert no 2: If you have a bored and hungry four-year-old, strapped in the child-seat of your car, do have an unlimited stock of snack, water and playthings.
Vehicle: Preferably 4x4 esp if you want to visit wadi wuraiyah, or any other unpaved locations.
Success no 1: A relaxing and rejuvenating drive on the near empty roads,compared to the daily stress filled commute to work.
Success no 2: A breathtaking view of the Hajjar mountains on all sides, in the late afternoon sun, transporting us to a different world.
Flop no 2: Reached Khorfakkan corniche beach at sunset 6 30. Did not have much time to get into the water in a ferry or jet ski .Loads of private operators providing the service at reasonable rates.
Success no 3: Enjoyed the waves of the ocean, the colors of the water, and the Hajjar mountains on either side.
Flop no 3: Reached Al Bidiyah mosque after darkness set in.
Success no 4: The mosque still looked awe-inspiring, reminding us of the times long long ago in the history of the region. Prayers are still held, so many generations have prayed here and we continue to do so.
A final victory no 5: Every information online said that the Masafi market is open only till 10 pm.. and we thought we had missed it. But much to our delight most of the shops were still open on our way back ... and we even haggled a good bargain for some carpets:-)
And now the pictures do the talking.
The Hajjar mountains
The Khorfakkan beach
Al Bidiyah Mosque under the Govt of Fujairah
The Friday Market at Masafi (open on all days though!!)- we had a glimpse of it en route to khorfakkan and decided to stop there on the way back.
A drive on the Highway always makes memories... and please do remember to drive safe.
ZAIN & FARZ
In-fact driving on these roads was itself an experience. Mountains looks as if Almighty has turned them upside down, no signs of life (read greenery) on them. Friday market is the place where women of your family enjoy the most.Yes they can bargain as much they want. Keep change cash as cards are not accepted.I gave them last money in my wallet for two carpets and for your belief it was 60% less than what they had quoted :)...
ReplyDeleteI visited this place only in my childhood, so I would love to visit again. Love the pics!
ReplyDeleteOf course Tarana, do visit this breath taking place.. But get onto the road early..:)!
DeleteWe missed seeing the serenity of the beach and reached there only when it was too dark. It's best to leave home early and especially with this beautiful weather in UAE right now, this looks like a perfect destination!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for stopping by our blog. Yes, the drive along the hajjar mountains is lovely, especially if you are on the road early, in this perfect weather. The mountains have many beautiful hideouts too, esp for barbecuing and camping! Must visit!! especially to escape from the city :-)
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