If you’ve been following the ever-charming Rashmika Mandanna on Instagram, you might have spotted her dreamy birthday celebrations at the stunning coastal city of Salalah, Oman. The popular actor, who recently starred alongside Salman Khan in "Sikandar" and is known for her roles in the "Pushpa" franchise and "Animal," shared a peek into her beachy 29th birthday. And if you’re wondering where she stayed during this getaway, Outlook Traveller has got you covered.
Mandanna's beachy retreat was at the exquisite Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara. Situated between a private beach and a freshwater lagoon, this luxurious resort is a true gem. It's the first and only luxury pool villa resort in Salalah, making it a sought-after haven for those seeking peace, privacy, and indulgence.
With 136 rooms, villas, and pool villas, all offering exotic garden, sea, or beach views, you'll be hard-pressed to find a more serene spot to unwind. The resort features a private 250 m beach and an infinity pool that seems to stretch into the horizon. Plus, its proximity to the Al Baleed Archaeological Park and the Museum of the Land of Frankincense means you’re just a short hop away from cultural exploration.
Whether you're lounging in your private balcony or dining at one of the resort's seven restaurants serving everything from Mediterranean to Arabian to Thai cuisine, relaxation and indulgence are guaranteed at the resort. Don't forget to pamper yourself at the Anantara Spa, where wellness retreats tailored to your needs await; think Ayurvedic treatments, personal training, and healthy dining options.
Address: PC 214, Al Mansurah Street, Al Baleed, Salalah 360, Oman
Tariff: Starts from INR 37,740
Salalah, the capital of Oman’s southern Zufar and Dhofar region, perfectly blends cultural heritage and natural beauty. Known as the "second city" of the Sultanate, it’s a place of lush greenery and cool breezes, a contrast to the rest of the region’s arid landscapes. The city’s annual Khareef Festival, celebrating the monsoon season, is a huge draw for visitors. However, even when the khareef (monsoon) season ends, Salalah offers plenty to keep you entertained.
With around 4,50,000 residents, Salalah boasts modern motorways, luxury hotels, and a revamped airport (since 2015), but it still holds onto its charm with serene beaches and mountain vistas.
If you’re looking for powder-soft sand, frothy waves, and dramatic cliffs, Mughsail Beach should be at the top of your list. Just six km east of Salalah, this beach is spectacular year-round. During the summer, you can witness the impressive blowholes at Mughsail’s limestone overhangs, where waves crash against the rocks and spray saltwater into the air. For a more tranquil experience, visit in the winter when the waters are calm and perfect for swimming, bodyboarding, and picnicking.
Go Scuba Diving or Whale Watching
Salalah’s position on the Arabian Sea makes it a prime spot for diving and snorkelling. The waters are teeming with sea life, including turtles, rays, and octopuses. Whether you’re a diving pro or just starting out, there are plenty of dive schools with which to book excursions. And if you’re lucky enough to visit between January and April, you might even spot orcas or humpback whales migrating through the area.
Wadi Darbat
During the monsoon season, Wadi Darbat transforms into a lush, green paradise. With waterfalls, lakes, and abundant wildlife, it’s an ideal place for a boat ride, a hike, or simply a peaceful picnic. This natural attraction is a must-visit during the monsoon season.
Jebel Samhan
For panoramic views of Salalah’s mountains and valleys, head up to Jebel Samhan. It’s one of the highest points in Dhofar, and the views from the top are nothing short of breathtaking. Perfect for those who love a good photo op or just want to escape the city for a while.
Shop at Haffa Souk
The oldest and most fragrant market in Salalah, Haffa Souk, is the place to go for some unique souvenirs. The market is famous for its frankincense – once traded ounce for ounce with gold. You can pick up some of this aromatic resin for just a few riyals or shop for textiles and trinkets. Be sure to check out the beautifully coloured frankincense in hues of yellow, green, and silver, which is said to have a range of medicinal properties.
The souk is a great place to pick up an Omani cotton thobe (ideal for beachwear) or even a miniature frankincense burner for your car. Open late into the evening, it's the perfect spot to explore after a day of sightseeing.
