Hawiyat Najm Park

Hawiyat Najm Park

Hawiyyat Najm, commonly known as Bimmah Sinkhole, is a naturally occurring water-filled depression located in the limestone terrain of eastern Muscat Governorate in the Sultanate of Oman. This geographical marvel, resembling a sinkhole, is situated in close proximity to the Al Sharqiyah region and is just a short distance off the highway to Sur, a few kilometers before reaching Tiwi. In an effort to preserve and enhance the appeal of this natural wonder, the local municipality has developed a well-equipped park, known as Hawiyat Najm Park, which is fenced and includes toilet facilities for visitors. Additionally, the park features a well-constructed stairway that leads down to the sinkhole. The sinkhole itself is characterized by its stunning turquoise waters, spanning an impressive 50 meters by 70 meters in width and reaching a depth of approximately 20 meters. Interestingly, the sinkhole is located a mere 600 meters from the sea, nestled between the coastal towns of Ḑibāb and Bamah. Geologically, the formation of the sinkhole can be attributed to the collapse of the surface layer as a result of the dissolution of the underlying limestone. However, it is worth noting that local folklore once attributed the creation of this unique formation to a meteorite, hence the Arabic name Hawiyyat Najm, which translates to "the deep well of the (falling) star." The Bimmah Sinkhole presents a diverse range of depths, varying from just a few feet to over 300 feet in the deepest section, adding to its enigmatic allure.