Visa and Entry First
For Indian passport holders, planning starts with the visa. The easiest route is the online e-Visa system run by the Royal Oman Police. You'll need a passport with at least six months of validity and a digital passport-size photograph. There are different
options, including 10-day and 30-day single-entry tourist visas. The fee for a 10-day tourist e-Visa is approximately ₹4,500, while a 30-day visa costs around ₹8,000. Processing usually takes a few working days, so apply at least a week before your travel date. It's also worth noting that Indian citizens who hold a valid visa or residence permit from the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, or a Schengen country may be eligible for a visa on arrival for up to 14 days.
Scoring Affordable Flights
Your biggest expense will likely be flights, but deals are available. Direct flights to Muscat (MCT) operate from major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Kochi, with a flight time of under four hours. Budget airlines such as SalamAir and Air India Express often have the most competitive prices. One-way fares from Mumbai to Muscat can start as low as ₹7,000-₹8,500 if booked in advance. To get the best rates, be flexible with your travel dates and use flight comparison websites. The cheapest month to fly is often October, while the peak season from December to March sees higher prices.
A Backpacker-Friendly 5-Day Itinerary
Five days is enough to get a fantastic taste of Oman. Here’s a possible plan: Day 1: Arrive in Muscat. Settle into your accommodation and spend the evening exploring the Muttrah Corniche and the vibrant Muttrah Souq, a traditional market perfect for finding souvenirs. Day 2: Discover Muscat's Icons. Visit the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in the morning (remember to dress modestly) and then see the Al Alam Palace, the Sultan's ceremonial residence. Day 3: Coastal Wonders. Take a day trip along the coast. The highlights are the Bimmah Sinkhole, a stunning natural swimming pool, and Wadi Shab, an emerald-green water canyon that requires a short hike and swim to fully appreciate. Day 4: Desert Adventure. Head inland to the Wahiba Sands. Experience the thrill of dune bashing in a 4x4, ride a camel at sunset, and spend the night at a desert camp under the stars for an authentic Bedouin experience. Day 5: Return to Muscat for your flight home, filled with incredible memories.
Getting Around on a Budget
While Oman is largely designed for cars, budget travellers have options. In Muscat, the government-run Mwasalat buses are modern, air-conditioned, and incredibly cheap, with city fares around 200-500 Baisa (approximately ₹44-₹110). These buses connect major parts of the city and also run to the airport. For inter-city travel, Mwasalat also operates comfortable coaches between major towns like Muscat and Nizwa. Shared taxis, often orange and white, are another common way to get around, though you should agree on a fare before starting your journey. For maximum flexibility, especially for visiting wadis and mountains, renting a car can be cost-effective if you're travelling in a small group, with daily rates starting around $30-$40 USD.
Budgeting and Accommodation
Oman uses the Omani Rial (OMR). As of late 2026, 1 OMR is roughly equivalent to ₹250. For accommodation, Muscat has a growing number of hostels and budget-friendly guesthouses. A bed in a dormitory at places like the Arabian Hostel or Heritage Hostel Muscat can cost as little as $6-$10 USD per night. Budget hotels and apartment hotels are also available, with rooms ranging from ₹2,500-₹4,000 per night. For food, avoid expensive hotel restaurants and eat at local coffee shops and Indian restaurants, where you can get a hearty meal for 2-3 OMR (₹500-₹750). A realistic daily budget for a backpacker could be around 20-25 OMR (₹5,000-₹6,250) per day, excluding major tours or car rentals.
