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Al-Qash'a Village: A hidden gem for adventure and heritage tourism in Oman
Muscat: Al-Qash'a village in the Wilayat of Al Jabal Al Akhdar (Green Mountain) in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate is emerging as a rich destination for adventure tourism, distinguished by its exceptional terrain, unique geology, and a climate that remains moderate in summer and cold in winter.
Geographical Charm and Agricultural Riches
Nestled at the eastern foot of a towering mountain, Al-Qash'a village lies at the end of one of the longest mountain terraces on its western side. To its north, it overlooks the village of Al Ain, while to the south, it is bordered by the villages of Salut and Masirah Al Rawajeh.
The village is renowned for its expansive agricultural terraces, which, akin to other villages in the Wilayat, are abundant with various fruit trees. These include pomegranates, walnuts, peaches, and apricots, alongside seasonal crops such as garlic and onions.
Walid bin Saif Al Zakwani, a member of the Municipal Council in the Wilayat of Al Jabal Al Akhdar and a resident of the village, explained that the name "Al-Qash'a" originates from the rocks descending towards it from various directions. Another linguistic interpretation of the name refers to the clearing of clouds after they cover the sky—a poetic description fitting its enchanting relationship with nature.
Historical Depth and Archaeological Significance
Al Zakwani noted that the village holds numerous archaeological evidences, hinting at human settlement in the Green Mountain dating back to ancient times. Scattered throughout the village are ancient graves of unusual shapes and orientations, distinctly different from the Islamic style, suggesting their pre-Islamic origins, possibly even from the Paleolithic era. Some agricultural terraces have become fossilised due to geological and weather factors, indicating their immense antiquity. Traces of residential caves, complete with fire pits and smoke residue, further reinforce the hypothesis of ancient human habitation. Additionally, there are ancient stone buildings that warrant in-depth archaeological studies by relevant government agencies.
The village's historical depth is further underscored by its historical monuments and several mosques, including Al-Bilad Mosque, Al-Wadi Mosque, Al-Jufrah Mosque, and Al-Hijrain Mosque. It is also sustained by a number of aflaj (ancient irrigation systems) and water springs that nourish its crops, such as Falaj La'our, Falaj Al-Ghuj, Falaj Azal, Falaj Al-Harf, Ain Al-Samna, Ain Al-Suwaib, and Ain Shadhan.
Tourism Potential and Natural Wonders
The harvest seasons for roses, pomegranates, and various fruits during the summer transform Al Jabal Al Akhdar, and Al-Qash'a village in particular, into a captivating tourist destination. These seasons offer visitors a diverse tourism product and an up-close insight into traditional and modern rose water production. Al Zakwani emphasized the significant economic viability of cultivating roses and pomegranates as a crucial income source for local farmers.
Hamad bin Subaih Al-Zakwani, another resident, noted the village's recent emergence as a prominent tourist spot, especially for nature lovers in the summer. This is attributed to its enchanting waterfalls, such as Wadi Al-Ain Waterfall, Sharjat Al-Anbur Waterfall, and Kor Azk Waterfall. Its geological diversity, featuring metamorphic, sedimentary, and igneous rock formations; its unique caves and grottoes, like Lambrad Cave; and the rare growth of tropical trees locally known as "sugar" along Wadi Al-Ain, all distinguish Al-Qash'a from other mountain villages.
The village also offers well-prepared hiking trails that wind through several valleys, ravines, and agricultural terraces, all set within a temperate Mediterranean climate. Prominent trails include Al-Lamd Road, Al-Sab Road, and Maslak Al-Magharat Road, which historically connected Al-Qash'a to neighboring villages and were vital transportation routes for residents in the past.
Al-Zakwani concluded by affirming that the fruit harvest seasons in Jabal Akhdar State generally, and Al-Qash'a village specifically, significantly contribute to attracting tourists and visitors who come to explore the region's rich tourism potential through adventure, nature, and heritage tourism.
