Rakhyout, The archaeological sanctuary of Kharfout, established under Royal Decree No. 58/2021, boasts a wide range of diversity.
The archaeological reserve, a strip of 143.4 square kilometers stretching along the Arabian Sea coast between the wilayats of Rakhyout and Dhalkout in Dhoar Governorate, falls within the mountainous monsoon zone of Dhofar.
With its quasi-tropical climate, Kharfout Archaeological Reserve has a moderate weather in summer — with temperatures ranging between 34-14 degrees Celsiu — and short, relatively cold winter averaging 14 degrees Celsius. The area receives intermittent cyclonic precipitations that might intensify due to climate change and climatic conditions.
A mountain range dominates the overall topography of Kharfout Archaeological Reserve, notably in the northern slopes of Wadi Saiq in the form of grooves, furrows and steep cliffs. This gave Kharfout Archaeological Reserve a unique terrain ranging from mountainous hinterlands of forests and grasslands to a semi-arid land running to the coast.
The northern and northwestern sections of Kharfout Archaeological Reserve are bedecked with stones and gravel. Sedimentary and limestone rocks constitute the overall terrain, with few outcrops of igneous rocks. It descends gradually in a southeasterly direction.
The soil of the northern section of the sanctuary is classified as a poor environment (of entisols, orthents and predominantly lithic torriorthents) that lacks organic elements and suffers a high proportion of calcium carbonates.
In terms of fauna and organisms inhabiting Kharfout Archaeological Reserve, field surveys point to the existence of 20 species of mammals, 193 species of birds, 20 species of reptiles, 183 species of plants and hundreds of invertebrates and other organisms.
The beach of Kharfout
Archaeological Reserve overlooks a breathtaking lagoon adjoining the Arabian Sea. The lagoon forms an exceptional destination for migrating birds and a leisure pool for tourists, relaxation seekers and people interested in watching turtles and dolphins or fishing.
Kharfout Archaeological Reserve is also known as home to the best grazing plants and abundant fresh water reservoirs. The Khor Kharfout fjord was used in ancient times as a port for export of frankincense, and this is evidenced by archaeological finds.
The high mountains and steep valleys appeal to many adventure lovers. The creek also serves as the main livestock grazing area for inhabitants of wilayats of Dhalkout and Rakhyout. As such Kharfout Archaeological Reserve has become a busy point of attraction for various types of visitors, shepherds, bird waters, nature lovers and people interested in cultural and environmental tourism.
Source: Oman News Agency