The tombs of Bat, Al-Khutm and Al-Ayn: Oman's Bronze Age landscape
5,000-year-old beehive tombs and towers near Ibri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. What they are, how to visit and the best time for photos.
2026-10-19
Near Ibri in Ad Dhahirah, the villages of Bat, Al-Khutm and Al-Ayn preserve one of the most complete Bronze Age landscapes in the world: settlements, towers and dozens of beehive-shaped stone tombs from the 3rd millennium BC. UNESCO inscribed them as a World Heritage Site in 1988.
What to see
- Al-Ayn, where a line of beehive tombs stands on a ridge below the jagged peak of Jebel Misht, especially striking at sunrise and sunset.
- Bat, the largest site, with tombs on the hillsides and remains of round stone towers.
- Al-Khutm, with a well-preserved tower.
Visiting
The sites are open-air and spread out; a four-wheel drive helps on some tracks. There are few facilities, so bring water.
Rules
Do not climb on or move stones, stay on paths and respect nearby farms and villages.
Tips
Stay in Ibri or Nizwa and visit early or late in the day for the best light and cooler temperatures.
Staying near and owning a home
Most visitors explore Oman from a base in Muscat. If you are thinking of buying, R2LUX sells homes in the communities where foreigners can own; three current listings are below.
Bahla Fort: Oman's UNESCO World Heritage fortress
Al Baleed Archaeological Park and the Museum of the Frankincense Land
