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In northeastern Oman, there is a geological wonder that draws people from around the world. Bimmah Sinkhole, also known as Hawiyat Najm, is a natural pool of turquoise water that is found several meters below ground. This is one of Oman’s greatest attractions, and one of the Middle East’s most unique natural wonders.
In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about the Bimmah Sinkhole, including how to get there, where to stay, and tips for a great visit.
Table of Contents
What is Bimmah Sinkhole?
The Bimmah Sinkhole is a natural geological formation found in Oman. This is a large hole in the ground filled with water. It attracts locals and tourists due to its clear, turquoise-colored water.
Where is Bimmah Sinkhole?
The Bimmah Sinkhole is located in northeastern Oman, near the town of Bimmah. It is about 125 km southeast of Muscat.
The Bimmah Sinkhole is found in Hawiyat Najm Park.
How to Get to Bimmah Sinkhole
I highly recommend travelers to Oman to rent a vehicle. I normally prefer saving money with public transportation. However, Oman is one of those countries (like Namibia) where you need to rent a car to easily visit the main attractions.
There are also several tours to Bimmah Sinkhole that can arrange transportation for you.
From Muscat
The trip from Muscat to Bimmah Sinkhole takes between 1.5-2 hours. You will be driving through a lot of empty highways, so make sure your tank is full and you don’t drive over 120 km/h (Oman has a lot of speed detection devices on the highway).
From Nizwa
From Sur
Sur is a popular destination for those who want to see the sea turtles at Ras Al Hadd. This city is only about 1 hour from Bimmah Sinkhole. Plus, you will get to enjoy Oman’s beautiful coastline the whole way.
Hawiyat Najm Park
To get to the Bimmah Sinkhole, you must enter Hawiyat Najm Park. This is a small park located a few meters from the ocean. It has toilets and a cold water dispenser. I did not drink from this because I didn’t know how clean it was, but it felt good to pour that cold water over my head.
Facilities
Hawiyat Najm Park has toilets and a cold water dispenser. I did not drink from this because I didn’t know how clean it was, but it felt good to pour that cold water over my head.
There are small patches of heavily-irrigated greenery that provide a stark contrast to the desert surroundings. A few pavilions can be found here, providing a welcome relief from the sun. However, it is so humid here, that you will be sweating with or without the sun.
Hawiyat Najm Park Opening Hours
Hawiyat Najm Park is open for visitors every day from 8 am to 8 pm.
It is free to enter the park.
Goats
One interesting thing about Hawiyat Najm Park is the number of goats that hang out in the parking lot. I’m not sure if they are wild or part of a herd, but they are definitely used to humans.
Bimmah Sinkhole
Can you swim in Bimmah Sinkhole?
Yes, swimming is permitted in Bimmah Sinkhole. However, you are required to “dress modestly” while swimming. To give you an idea of what to wear, about half of the men were swimming with shirts on. All of the women were wearing at least knee-length shorts and a T-shirt.
I would recommend being as conservative as possible with what you wear as to avoid any unwanted attention.
How deep is Bimmah Sinkhole?
While it is shallow enough to stand in, some parts of Bimmah Sinkhole can reach up to 20-30 meters deep!
While it may seem tempting, do not jump from the top of the sinkhole into the water. Not only are there signs prohibiting this, it is too difficult to see where the deepest parts of the water are.
Are there fish in Bimmah Sinkhole?
Yes, there are fish in Bimmah Sinkhole. In the shallow areas, you will see schools of small fish, only a few centimeters long. If you walk around behind the staircase, where there are less people, you may see bigger fish. I saw a few tilapia in this part.
Where to Stay Nearby
There are not many options of places to stay in Bimmah. However, this is a perfect day trip from other locations, so you have other options of where to stay.
Muscat
Low Budget: Muscat International Hotel
Medium Budget: Fraser Suites Muscat
High-Budget: Intercontinental Muscat
