40 Unique Activities Found in Bahrain
An Overview of Bahrain
Bahrain is a small island country located in the Persian Gulf. Despite its size, Bahrain is rich in history and culture, with a variety of attractions for visitors to explore. From ancient burial mounds to historic forts, visitors can immerse themselves in Bahrain’s past. Bahrain is also home to a variety of modern developments, including luxury hotels, shopping centers, and business complexes. The country’s beautiful beaches and scenic waterfronts provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure. With its unique blend of tradition and modernity, Bahrain is a fascinating destination for travelers.
Advice When Visiting Bahrain
If you’re planning on visiting Bahrain, consider the following:
1. Respect the local culture – Bahrain is a conservative Muslim country, so it’s important to dress modestly and be mindful of local customs and traditions.
2. Stay hydrated – Bahrain can get very hot, especially during the summer months, so be sure to drink plenty of water and stay in the shade when possible.
3. Know the local laws – Bahrain has strict laws on things like alcohol, drugs, and public displays of affection, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with these rules before you arrive.
4. Take advantage of the local cuisine – Bahrain is known for its delicious food, so be sure to try some of the local dishes while you’re there.
5. Explore the history and culture – Bahrain has a rich and fascinating history, so take some time to explore the ancient burial mounds, historic forts, and other cultural attractions.
6. Be prepared for the driving – Bahrainis are known for their aggressive driving habits, so be extra cautious when crossing the street or renting a car.
Unique Activities Found in Bahrain
1. Tree of Life:
The Tree of Life is a natural wonder located in the middle of the Bahraini desert. This tree stands 32 feet tall and is believed to be over 400 years old. Despite being in a harsh desert environment, the tree is still green and lively. Visitors can stop by to see this magnificent tree and enjoy a picnic in the surrounding area.
2. Dragon Rocks:
Dragon Rocks is a unique geological formation in Bahrain. The rocks are believed to have been formed over millions of years due to natural erosion. Visitors can explore the area and marvel at the rock formations, which are said to resemble the shape of a dragon.
3. AlAreen Wildlife Park & Reserve:
AlAreen Wildlife Park & Reserve is a conservation area that is home to over 100 species of animals and birds. Visitors can take a tour of the park to see the wildlife up close, including the Arabian Oryx, which was once extinct in the wild.
4. Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort:
The Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort is a historic fortress located in the heart of Riffa. The fort was built in the 19th century and was once used as a residence for the ruling family. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about its history.
5. Dilmun Burial Mounds:
The Dilmun Burial Mounds are an ancient burial site that dates back to the Dilmun civilization, over 4,000 years ago. Visitors can explore the area and see the many burial mounds that are spread out over a vast area.
6. A’ali Grand Mosque:
The A’ali Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques in Bahrain. The mosque features beautiful architecture and intricate details. Visitors can take a tour of the mosque and learn about its history and significance.
7. A’ali Pottery Workshop-Alshugel Pottery:
The A’ali Pottery Workshop is a traditional pottery making facility that has been in operation for over 100 years. Visitors can see the pottery making process in action and purchase handmade pottery items.
8. Barbar Temple:
The Barbar Temple is an ancient temple that dates back to the Dilmun civilization. The temple is believed to have been built in the 3rd millennium BC and is one of the oldest temples in the region. Visitors can explore the temple and learn about its history.
9. Bahrain Fort:
Bahrain Fort, also known as Qal’at al-Bahrain, is a historic fort that dates back to the 14th century. The fort was once the capital of the Dilmun civilization and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about its significance.
10. Al Khamis Mosque:
Al Khamis Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Bahrain, dating back to the 7th century. The mosque features beautiful architecture and intricate details. Visitors can take a tour of the mosque and learn about its history.
11. AlFateh Grand Mosque:
The AlFateh Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques in Bahrain. The mosque features beautiful architecture and intricate details. Visitors can take a tour of the mosque and learn about its history and significance.
12. Juffair Beach:
Juffair Beach is a popular beach in Bahrain. The beach features white sand and clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can also enjoy various water sports activities.
13. Bahrain Aquarium:
The Bahrain Aquarium is a popular tourist attraction that showcases the marine life of the Persian Gulf. Visitors can see various species of fish, turtles, and other marine animals up close.
14. Souq Al Baraha:
Souq Al Baraha is a traditional outdoor market that sells a variety of goods, including souvenirs, textiles, and spices. Visitors can explore the market and experience the bustling atmosphere.
15. Dragon City Bahrain:
Dragon City Bahrain is a shopping complex that features a variety of shops and restaurants. The complex is designed to resemble a traditional Chinese city, complete with dragon-themed decorations.
16. Water Garden City:
Water Garden City is a residential complex that features beautiful gardens and water features. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
17. Bahraini Women’s Monument “ATHAR”:
The Bahraini Women’s Monument “ATHAR” is a sculpture that honors the contributions of Bahraini women to society. The sculpture features the faces of 24 Bahraini women who have made significant contributions to the country.
18. Bahrain Bay:
Bahrain Bay is a waterfront development that features luxury hotels, restaurants, and residential buildings. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the bay and take a stroll along the waterfront.
19. The Gardens at Bahrain Bay:
The Gardens at Bahrain Bay is a beautiful park that features lush greenery and scenic views of the bay. Visitors can relax in the park and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
20. Bab Al Bahrain:
Bab Al Bahrain is a historic landmark that was once the main gateway to Manama. The gate features beautiful architecture and intricate details. Visitors can explore the area and learn about its history.
21. Shri Krishna Temple(THMC Complex) Thattai Hindu Merchants Community:
The Shri Krishna Temple is a Hindu temple that is located in the THMC Complex. The temple features beautiful architecture and intricate details. Visitors can take a tour of the temple and learn about its significance.
22. Manama Souq Building:
Manama Souq Building is a historic building that dates back to the 19th century. The building features beautiful architecture and intricate details. Visitors can explore the building and learn about its history.
23. Gold Souq Manama:
Gold Souq Manama is a traditional market that specializes in gold jewelry. Visitors can explore the market and purchase handmade jewelry items.
24. Beit Al Quran:
Beit Al Quran is a museum that showcases the history and culture of Islam. The museum features a collection of Islamic artifacts and manuscripts.
25. Bahrain World Trade Center:
Bahrain World Trade Center is a landmark building that features a unique design. The building features wind turbines that generate electricity for the building.
26. Bahrain Financial Harbour:
Bahrain Financial Harbour is a business complex that features a variety of offices and commercial buildings. The complex is designed to be environmentally friendly and features a variety of green initiatives.
27. Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage (ARC-WH):
The Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage is an organization that promotes the preservation of cultural heritage in the Arab region. Visitors can learn about the organization and its initiatives.
28. Bahrain National Museum:
Bahrain National Museum is a museum that showcases the history and culture of Bahrain. The museum features a collection of artifacts and exhibits, including traditional costumes and pottery.
29. Juffair Beach:
Juffair Beach is a popular beach in Bahrain. The beach features white sand and clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can also enjoy various water sports activities.
30. Sa’ada Sea Front:
Sa’ada Sea Front is a waterfront development that features a variety of shops and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the sea and take a stroll along the waterfront.
31. Pearling Path Visitor and Experience Center:
The Pearling Path Visitor and Experience Center is a museum that showcases the history and culture of pearling in Bahrain. Visitors can learn about the pearling industry and its significance to Bahraini culture.
32. Bait Al Ghouse:
Bait Al Ghouse is a historic house that dates back to the 19th century. The house features beautiful architecture and intricate details. Visitors can explore the house and learn about its history.
33. Qala’t Bu Mahir:
Qala’t Bu Mahir is a historic fort that dates back to the 16th century. The fort features beautiful architecture and intricate details. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about its history.
34. Al Sayadeen View Point:
Al Sayadeen View Point is a scenic overlook that offers panoramic views of the sea and surrounding area. Visitors can take in the stunning views and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
35. Seyadi House:
Seyadi House is a historic house that dates back to the 19th century. The house features beautiful architecture and intricate details. Visitors can explore the house and learn about its history.
36. Arad Fort:
Arad Fort is a historic fort that dates back to the 15th century. The fort features beautiful architecture and intricate details. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about its history.
37. Heritage Village:
Heritage Village is a museum that showcases the traditional way of life in Bahrain. The museum features a collection of traditional houses, crafts, and artifacts.
38. Vertical Garden:
Vertical Garden is a unique attraction that features a vertical garden with over 70,000 plants. Visitors can explore the garden and marvel at the stunning display of greenery.
39. Hawar Islands of Bahrain
The Hawar Islands of Bahrain are a must-visit destination for any traveler looking for a unique and unforgettable experience. Located off the coast of Bahrain, these islands offer pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a variety of marine life and bird species. Visitors can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, diving, and fishing, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. The islands also offer a glimpse of traditional Bahraini culture, with opportunities to visit local villages and interact with the friendly locals. Overall, the Hawar Islands are a hidden gem of Bahrain that are not to be missed.
40: Walking Routes of Muharraq:
The Muharraq is home to a wide range of historical attractions, all to be experienced on foot while walking through the winding streets. Some of these spaces must be discovered, such as the numerous antique shops, traditional sweetshops, carpentry professionals and more. However, there are a range of items which exist either on the Pearling Path or can be purchased through an all-inclusive Culture Pass for 3 Bahraini Dinar (cash only). These routes are filled with cultural artifacts, artworks, modern designs and innovative cultural displays.
The routes are listed here: Some are included in the list above already since I personally experienced and enjoyed them. Note that many of these attractions primarily open in the afternoon (after 2:00 and 4:00 PM) and many are closed on Fridays.
From South To North: The Total Pearling Path:
Qal’at Bu Mahir
Al Ghus house
Badr Ghulum and Turabi Houses
Al Jalahma House
Al Alawi House
Fakhro House
Murad House
Murad Majlis
Siyadi Shops
Amarat Yousif A. Fakhro
Amarat Ali Rashed Fakhro (I)
Amarat Ali Rashed Fakhro (II
Nukhidhah House
Siyadi House
Siyadi Majlis
Siyadi Mosque
Shaikh Ebrahim Bin Mohammed Al-Khalifa Culture Pass Route:
Sh. Ebrahim Bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture & Research.
Iqra Children’s Library
Water Garden
Information Center
Lukmatina
House of Coffee
Kurar House
Abdullah Al Zayer House Extension
Abdullah Al Zayed House for Bahraini Press Heritage
House of Architectural Heritage
Archaeologies of Green Pavilion
Memory of the Place Bin Matar House
Mohammed Bin Faris Sut Music House
Al Nukhidah House
Ibrahim Al Arrayed House of Poetry
Iqra 2
Vertical Garden
Nuzul Guest House
Buzaboon House
Heraf Al Diryar
Memory of the House
Memory of Manama
Mohammed Bin Faris Music Hall
House of Art
Nuzul Al Salam
Green Corner
Bukhalaf Coffee Shop
Manamat Al Gosaibi
Seyadi House
Busaad Art Gallery
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