Rose Season

Jabal Akhdar has a mild summer and a strong winter, with temperatures sometimes dropping below zero, especially on rainy days. Winter visits require warm clothing and heating, while summer, starting in March, offers a pleasant climate. This marks the beginning of the famed rose-picking season, attracting tourists and adding to the region’s charm.

The rose-picking season in Jabal Akhdar is a cherished tradition that continues to captivate visitors year after year. With each season bringing the same timeless beauty, the dedication of local farmers to cultivating rose trees highlights the cultural and economic significance of this industry. Beyond its fragrant blooms, this season has become a major attraction for travelers eager to witness the art of rose water production—both in its traditional and modern forms—making it an essential experience in the heart of Oman’s mountains.

Beyond its fragrance, rose water is deeply rooted in Omani culture. It’s used in traditional remedies for migraines, culinary delights like Omani sweets, perfumes, skincare, and even as a welcoming gesture at celebrations.

The rose crop is concentrated in the villages of (Al-Aqr, Al-Ain, Al-Sharijah, Saiq, Al-Qasha, Hail Al-Yemen and Hail Al-Masbet), and the number of rose trees from which different types of mountain rose water are extracted amounts to more than 5000 trees with a total area of up to 10 acres. 

The rose season of Jabal Akhdar begins in late March and lasts until the end of April, marking the first seasonal bloom of the year. The actual harvesting of roses takes place toward the end of April, after which they undergo the traditional process of distillation to produce rose water. This centuries-old craft is carried out in the homes of local families who have preserved this heritage for generations, keeping the rich legacy of Omani rose water alive. 

Jabal Akhdar is accessible via a paved road from Birkat AL Mouz, located 20 km east of Nizwa and 7 km west of Izki. The mountain is about 160 km from Muscat, with fully paved roads leading to it. Due to steep slopes, a four-wheel drive vehicle is required for both ascent and descent to ensure safety of the visitors.