Khatt |
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Khatt is a pleasant village surrounded by the Hajar Mountains and largely covered by vast palm gardens. Delicious dates that are sold in most of the groceries in Ras Al Khaimah usually come from the local farms in Khatt. Nevertheless, Khatt’s fame comes from another natural feature; that is sweet water springs. There are three springs coming out from the base of the mountains from a depth of around 28m. The water temperature reaches up to 40oC and is famous for its medical properties, mainly for skin and rheumatic ailments. In recent years, the site with Khatt springs was upgraded to higher standards (however, it already seems a bit tired) and now it is managed by the adjacent five stars Golden Tulip Khatt Spring Hotel. Despite this touristic attraction, the village has a kind of sleepy atmosp
The availability of water and fertile soils indicated that the area of Khatt must have been occupied in the past. In 1969, the first survey revealed a substantial ancient settlement, named Nud Ziba, from the early Wadi Suq period (2000-1600BC). The artefacts found on the site belonged also to the Iron Age (1200-300BC) suggesting the reuse of the site. Nud Ziba, nowadays looks like a mound or tell, which is located in the middle of the agricultural fields, thus excavations here are still impossible.
In the later years, archaeologists once again thoroughly examined the village and its surroundings. The results of their work were worth the effort. More than 163 archaeological sites were recognized in this extensive oasis. These findings covered almost all the ancient and historical periods, starting from the Hafit period (3200-2600BC) and ending in modern times. Although the majority of the ancient findings are not yet excavated, the more recent constructions such as fortifications, watch towers, old mosques and houses are plentiful and can be spotted through the village. Most of these constructions were built in the 19th and early 20th century and occupy the hills around Khatt. The watch towers and forts created an excellent defence line and guarded the water springs and adjacent gardens. They provided protection in times of conflicts with other local tribes, which occurred throughout history. Usually near the towers you will find old mosques and the remains of typical stone houses. Additionally, the local palm gardens still use falaj irrigation system and are, no doubt, one of the attractions of this place.
While in Khatt, you should investigate a mound located in the south part of the village. Many historical buildings including watch towers, a fort and an old mosque occupy that hill. To find it, drive from the Airport R/A and at the next roundabout enter Khatt. Pay attention to your odometer as 3km further, when the roads bends to the left, you have to take a turn right. Probably you will spot one of the towers (I) in the distance by then. When you turn right, pass a modern mosque on its right side and drive towards the hill’s first tower. Continue to drive on the right side of the hill until you arrive at the remains of the old fort. It was a large, mud brick structure with obvious tower and a number of residential quarters. The fort’s dwellings are now partially occupied, although the structure is largely crumbling. Close by you can see the old mosque, which is surprisingly still in use by the inhabitants of the fort. On the top of the hill another larger tower is situated. The whole area between the two towers is covered with the remains of house structures and an old Islamic graveyard, although not easily visible at first.
One of the largest watch towers (II) in Khatt is situated near the Khatt Springs. Just turn left before the entrance to the resort, pass a distinctive fort like house and continue to drive until you see the watch tower, and yet another old mosque on the right side. |
LOCATION: around 25km south of Ras Al Khaimah centre. From the Lantern R/A drive towards RAK Airport (E18). At the Airport R/A turn left and at the next roundabout go straight entering Khatt. Drive along the road until you reach the Khatt R/A. (Somewhere in the middle of the road turn right to visit the mound described below.) At the Khatt R/A turn right to go to the Khatt Springs. If you decide to drive towards Ras Al Khaimah, go back to the Khatt R/A and take the first exit, and then head in the north-west direction for around 4.5km. You should see a characteristic pigeon houses on the left and soon you will arrive at the Y-junction, where you need to turn left. If you follow this road for around 3km you will reach Airport Rd. Turn right to drive back to Ras Al Khaimah. GPS: Khatt old fort - N25o36’ 31.53” E56o00’ 27.19” Watch towers – I: N25o36’ 33.19” E56o00’ 31.70”, II:N25o37’ 07.76” E56o00’ 35.26”, III: N25o36’ 59.13” E56o00’ 04.97”
KHATT SPRINGS -Spa Centre, Phone: 07 2448777, Open: 7am- 21pm, Fees: 50dhs for entrance, treatments offered for additional fees. This place has a strict no gender mix policy, thus women and men are separated.
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here, and if tranquilly is what you are looking for, then Khatt is a perfect spot for you.
