Skyline of Manama, the capital of Bahrain Depositphotos
Bahrain is a small island country in the Persian Gulf, consisting of arid islets. He is proud to be one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Middle East. The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority (BTEA) announced that the number of Indian tourists visiting Bahrain in the first half of 2023 increased by 87% to 504,173. Proximity to India, ease of connectivity and diversity of offerings make Bahrain an attractive option. leisure and business.
With Bahrain’s growing popularity as a destination for weddings, holidays, and leisure, here’s a guide for Indians looking to visit the country.
Highlights
Karat Al Bahrain
Qalat Al Bahrain is an archaeological site also known as Bahrain Fort or Portuguese Fort. Regarded as Bahrain’s “most important ancient site,” the fortress is a multi-layered mound built by human occupation. This site has been excavated to reveal different types of structures. Residential, public, commercial, religious, military, etc. all testify to the importance of this place as a trading port at the time.
timing: Tuesday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed on Mondays.
Al Fateh Grand Mosque
Al Fateh Mosque was previously one of the largest mosques in the world, with an area of 6,500 square meters and can accommodate over 7,000 worshipers at a time. It is located next to Al Fateh Highway in Juffair, a suburb of Manama. The mosque is topped by the world’s largest fiberglass dome, and the walls are decorated with Kufic calligraphy.
timing: Saturday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed on Fridays.
Bahrain National Museum
Next to the Bahrain National Theater is the Bahrain National Museum, the country’s largest (27,800 square meters) and oldest public museum. The museum houses his collection of ancient Bahrain archaeological artifacts collected since 1988, covering nearly 5,000 years of Bahrain’s history, and is one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions. It has become.
timing: Wednesday through Monday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays.
Shajarat Al Hayat
Shajarat Al Hayat or Tree of Life is neither a monument nor a protected forest area, but simply a rare tree. It is the only major tree growing in the region, and its survival in an area with little water remains a mystery. This 400-year-old tree is a local tourist attraction and stands 32 feet tall. It is open to the public throughout the week.
where to stay
One of Bahrain’s most luxurious resorts is located in the capital, Manama. Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa is just 6 km from Al Areen Wildlife Park and within a 10-minute drive from the Madinat Hamad 3 Tumulus Field, a Dilmun civilization settlement.
Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain is located on the ocean-facing part of the island, offering spectacular views. More affordable hotels include the Pulse International Hotel in the commercial center of Juffair and the ibis Thief His Manama in the center of Manama.
where to eat
If you’re looking for Indian food in Bahrain, Bangalore Pub Bahrain is the place for you. Travelers looking for an a la carte menu should check out Mahonia Restaurant and Lounge. In addition to local restaurants, there are also gourmet restaurants such as Rodeo Bahrain, La Plage, and the Dublin Club.
where to shop
If you are one of those travelers who cannot leave a place without picking up some local souvenirs, then do not miss Al Qaisariya Market, famous as the “Pearl Market”. In addition to pearls, you can also purchase miscellaneous goods such as dates and rugs.
Joofri Supermarket in Muharraq Souq has one of the best toy stores in Bahrain. Souq Waqif and Manama Souk, known as the “Standing Market,” are the places to visit to buy beautiful handicrafts, textiles, fragrant perfumes, and spices.
directions
To travel from India to Bahrain, book flights from major Indian airports like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai to Bahrain International Airport in Manama. Make sure your passport is valid for six months and apply for a Bahrain visa in advance at an embassy or online. Indian nationals can also obtain a visa on arrival in Bahrain. Please check flight schedules and visa requirements as they are subject to change.