Clear water runs from the foot of the mountain into channels and pools, where small fish dart about. Tall trees shade the stream, and lawns and flowers spread out beside it.

The spring

Ayn Razat is the best known of the natural springs at the foot of the mountains near Salalah, in the north-east of Dhofar, about 15 km from the centre of the city. It is one of the largest springs in Oman. Its water comes from rain falling on the surrounding mountains, and it flows from the rock all year into channels and pools full of small fish.

Water for the farms

The water is of high quality and suitable for drinking, and it is used to irrigate crops and trees. The flow increases in the monsoon season.

The garden

A garden with lawns, flowers and shade trees has been laid out beside the spring by Dhofar Municipality, and tall trees shade the stream. A short climb leads to a cave, Razat Cave, with a view over the plain. The spring draws visitors, school groups and photographers.

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  Picnic Lawns and shade by the stream.
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  Razat Cave A short climb, with a view.
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  Respect Don't wash or swim in the spring water.
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  Al Baleed About 18 km away.
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  Taqah Castle About 20 km away.

Visiting

Entry is free. In the khareef the hills around are green and misty in summer; November to March is also a pleasant time. Wadi Darbat is about 23 km away and Sumhuram about 23 km, so Ayn Razat fits well into a day east of Salalah.