Najd Al Maqsar Heritage Village

Najd Al Maqsar Heritage Village Sharjah

When you go hiking up the Hajar Mountains, you come across an ancient heritage village that has houses built with palm fronds. This is the Najd al Maqsar Village settlement where people would sell dates grown in palm tree plantations for a living. After you reach the village, you get to see spectacular views of the rugged Khorfakkan Mountains and the picturesque Wadi Shie valley. Hence, book your tour now with Travel Saga Tourism.

Is the Najd Al Maqsar a Medieval Settlement?

When you see the village for the first time, you surely find its similarity with medieval settlements in Europe striking. It’s a journey back in time as you climb the hill viewing the small medieval cottages with thatched roofs. Moreover, on top of the hill, you’ll see a stone castle. Also, you feel like you are exploring a settlement in Europe dating back to the medieval age even though you are in the UAE!

What to expect at Najd al Maqsar:

Explore the Al Maqsar Tower

The Najd Al Maqsar Heritage Village in Sharjah has only 13 houses whose walls are built with stone and mud while the roofs are made of palm fronds. These modest houses formed a settlement that can be traced back 300 years and they would protect the inhabitants of the village from the elements. There is a mosque and tombs as well within the village.

The Al Maqsar tower, built around 300 years ago is certainly the most striking structure here in the village. It’s built from stone and it stands atop the hill. The Al Maqsar Tower is one of the 3 towers that form the Khorfakkans network of watchtowers. Additionally, the other 2 towers are Al Rabi Tower and Al Adwani Tower.

Go Hiking in the Wadi Shie

If you enjoy adventure, go hiking at the beautiful Wadi Shie. It’s unquestionably awesome walking through the rugged mountain terrain and the views are breathtaking. You can explore the farm of palm trees as well and enjoy the soothing sound of the irrigation water gently flowing along. You’ll also see terrace farming practices by the people of Wadi Shie thousands of years ago. The abandoned farms give you an eerie feeling.

You’ll then pass through an undoubtedly lovely valley with springs as you pass by the farms and walk up the stairs to reach the Najd Al Maqsar settlement. The hiking trail isn’t too tough here and therefore, it is suitable for young hikers as well.

Traces of Human Existence Going Back to the Ancient Times

Pieces of antiquities discovered by excavators highlight the historical significance of Najd Al Maqsar. Furthermore, these discoveries have confirmed the existence of humans in the mountains of the Wadi Shie thousands of years back.

The rugged mountains of the Wadi Shie are therefore of immense historical significance that indicates the presence of humans in the Middle East in the ancient age. Excavators also stumbled upon a large number of petroglyphs and carved stones bearing drawings of camels and horses that have traced back to 2000 BC.

What are the Modern Development Plans for Najd Al Maqsar?

There are plans to build 13 hotel units that sync well with the heritage surroundings. Also, there are dedicated zones for barbequing and arrangements for outdoor seating. There are plans to build a mosque as well. Currently, accommodation is being built at the Najd Al Maqsar that’ll feature modern facilities like air conditioning and TVs that will increase Najd al Maqsar’s popularity as a tourist spot as people will be able to stay here at the exclusive place overnight. Additionally, there are plans to restore the castle as well which when done will give visitors a stunning view of the valley below against the backdrop of the rugged Hajar Mountains.

How to Reach Najd Al Maqsar Heritage Village Sharjah?

You’ll have to take the exit from Sharjah and get onto Khorfakkan Road. The best mode of transport would be a car. We can arrange a private tour to Najd Al Maqsar Village that includes pickup and drop.

Important Instructions

• You are certainly not to leave any garbage behind
• Please walk on the rocks and gravel while hiking avoiding the vegetation as it may take years to grow back
• Do not damage or desecrate any of the monuments here
• For less impact on the wilderness, avoid cooking on a campfire and use a stove

FAQs

Q. Najd Al Maqsar looks isolated from the city. Is it safe?
It is a safe place and the law and order situation is good here with the crime rate being low. Besides, there’ll be other visitors there as well.

Q. Is public transport available to reach Najd Al Maqsar?
No, the only way to get there is by car. we can arrange private transportation for you. This enables you to reach your destination on time and you can avoid the hassle of public transport.

Q. Can we go hiking at Najd Al Maqsar Village in Sharjah?

Yes indeed, you can go hiking in this heritage village. It’s unquestionably awesome walking through the rugged mountain terrain and the views are breathtaking.

Q. Should we carry our food?
You would do well to carry some food as there are no eateries at Najd Al Maqsar.

Q. Do we need tickets to enter the Najd Al Maqsar village?
No, you don't need any tickets. The entry into the Najd Al Maqsar village is unrestricted.

Q. Where is the Al Maqsar Fortress?

The Al Maqsar Fortress is situated in the Najd Al Maqsar village in Sharjah. It is 300 year old fort and it’s built from stone and it stands atop the hill.