It may be the smallest country in the Gulf, but it certainly does not lack variety to keep tourists engaged. Beyond the capital Manama, Bahrain has a lot in store for tourists searching for some unique experiences.

For many, who have not been to Bahrain, the country starts and ends with its capital, Manama, which of course is the first location that springs to mind when talking of Bahrain. It is the home to the airport and many of the leading hotels and shopping experiences that are thronged by the tourists.

However, there is a lot for tourists to explore beyond Manama as well. The regions around the capital provide a wealth of opportunities for exploration and adventure. The largest geographic area in Bahrain is its southern region. It reaches all the way down to the southernmost island in the region, from Isa Town in the north. This region of Bahrain is sparsely populated, and because of the broad open areas, it is the perfect location for large sporting venues and natural reserves. It also packs in various other experiences for visitors.

For instance, if pottery piques one’s curiosity, visit the A’Ali Pottery, which is close to the Royal Mound, where one can watch the potters create the most exquisite pots that imitate those from Bahrain’s prehistoric Dilmun culture using age-old techniques that have been passed down through the centuries. Watching these expert craftsmen at work is incredibly interesting.

The state-of-the-art Bahrain International Circuit, which is famously known throughout the world for the Formula One races, is also located in the southern part of Bahrain. The opening race of the upcoming F1 2023 season will take place in Bahrain from March 3–5, 2023 and that is the time when visitors experience the heightened adrenaline rush of this race in person as they watch the F1 racers whizz pass on this magnificent race track.

At this track, one can also partake in the thrilling activity of go-karting. Whether a beginner, an expert driver, or even a young child, everyone is welcome to enjoy laps around the race track. This world-class site also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including drag racing, the GP2 Series, and other events. Gravity is the perfect destination for adventurers and thrill seekers who want to defy gravity and feel the exciting of jumping off a plane without actually doing so. It is the world’s tallest wind tunnel and the first indoor skydiving facility built in the destination. Both novice and expert fliers and even children over 4 years in age can try it.

Nature and animal lovers can get up close and personal with some of the endangered animals and birds of the Arabian Peninsula at the Al Areen Wildlife Park and Reserve, which is a breathtaking place. While exploring this reserve, visitors get to see the Arabian Oryx, Persian Gazelle, springbok, and impala. There is also a walk-in aviary and a wildlife area featuring endangered animals like leopards, cheetahs, and Arabian wolves. Visitors here ought not to miss the falconry demonstration. Visitors keen on horse racing should go to Rashid Equestrian & Horseracing Club, where the world’s most prized Arabian horse breed gallop off hurdles and the track.

It is in the southern region of Bahrain that a very unique, rare and mystical natural wonder, the Tree Of Life is located. This magnificent mature 10 m tall mesquite tree, which is over 400 years old, stands alone on top of an 8 m high hillock. The tree’s source of water remains a mystery and it is a popular tourist attraction in the area, attracting 50,000 visitors each year.

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Visitors can also spend a day or two on vacation at a waterpark or at the beach to relax and have fun. The Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park is the island’s first outdoor water theme park and a great place to spend a fun-filled day with loved ones. Alternately, one can spend the day at Al Jazair Public Beach, which is only a 30-minute drive from Manama’s city centre and has a pleasant and serene sandy beach where you can just relax and unwind.