Qala't Bu Mahir: Gateway to Bahrain's Pearling History
Explore Qala't Bu Mahir, the historic gateway to Bahrain's pearling past, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's heritage.
Qala't Bu Mahir, also known as Bu Maher Fort, is a historic fort in Muharraq, Bahrain, marking the start of the Pearling Path, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in 1840, it played a crucial role in protecting the island's pearling industry. Today, it offers insights into Bahrain's rich history and maritime heritage.
A brief summary to Qala't Bu Mahir
- 6JR7+GCH, Muharraq, BH
- +97317298777
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and the best lighting for photography, especially during sunset.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the fortress involves walking on uneven surfaces.
- Check the opening hours before your visit, as Qala't Bu Mahir is closed on Tuesdays.
- Consider visiting nearby attractions along the Pearling Path to make the most of your time in Muharraq.
- Take a boat from the Bahrain National Museum to Qala't Bu Mahir for a unique and scenic approach to the fort.
Getting There
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Public Transport
If arriving by bus to Muharraq, disembark at a central Muharraq bus stop. From there, Qala't Bu Mahir is accessible by taxi (approximately 1-2 BHD). Alternatively, you can walk for about 15-20 minutes, following signs towards the Bu Mahir Visitor Center and the seashore. A single bus fare is typically around 0.3 BHD.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in Muharraq, a taxi or ride-share is a convenient way to reach Qala't Bu Mahir. Simply ask to be dropped off at Qala't Bu Mahir near the Bu Mahir Visitor Center. The ride should be short and relatively inexpensive within Muharraq. Expect to pay around 1-2 BHD for a short trip within Muharraq.
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Boat
An alternative access to Qala't Bu Mahir is by boat from the Bahrain National Museum in Manama. Boats depart regularly (approximately every 45 minutes), providing a scenic route to the fort. A round-trip boat ticket costs approximately 1 BHD. Note that the last boat departs at sunset.
Discover more about Qala't Bu Mahir
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bumaher Castle
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Star Marine Services - Boat Trip / Sea Trip to Jarada Island
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The Green Corner
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Abdullah Al Zayed House for Bahraini Press Heritage
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Traditional Houses of Muharraq
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Muharraq Heritage valley
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Kurar House
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Al Muharraq historical downtown
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Al Ghouse Park
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Bahrain National Theater
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Busaad Art Gallery
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End of the Bahrain Pearling Path
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Siyadi Mosque
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Bahrain National Museum
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Unmissable attractions to see
Pearling Pathway Visitor Center 1- BuMaher Fort
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Bait Al Ghouse
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Muhraq beach
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Dar Al Muharraq
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قطعة حمد Qit'at Hamad K
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Muharraq sign
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بيت الجلاهمة - Al-Jalahma House
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Al Sayadeen view point
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Fakhro House
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Dhow Building yard
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منزل المرحوم علي أمرالله الأسدي The house of Ali Amrallah ALasadi
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Mohammed Bin Faris House for vocal Music
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Essential places to dine
Cafeteria Reem AlBawadi
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Trabzon Istanbul Restaurant مطعم طرابزون اسطنبول
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Al Isha restaurant ( Kerala Restaurant)
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Apna Dera Restaurant Muharraq Branch
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New Lahore Restaurant
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Grill & Thrill
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Qasr Alsadaf Restaurant
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Our Old House مطعم ومقهى بيتنا القديم
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Wafoy Restaurant
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Gulf Sea Restaurant
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Tanjah Restaurant
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Vivasayi Restaurant
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Kudukkachi Restaurant
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Ramla Grill Restaurant
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Tandoori Tawah Restaurant W.L.L
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Riza Hijabs bahrain
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Family Train Muharraq
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JAHRAMI COLD STORE
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Bukhnaq boutique
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Ghawar Boutique Muharraq
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Ajmal Perfume, Souq Muharraq
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سوق المحرق التجاري
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Teeb Al Karam Perfumes
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Baghdad Abayat
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Ahyan Fashion
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الزعيم المعسلات واشياشAlzaeem Mosalat
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Shift 7
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Fiddlers Green Irish Pub
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Beats Lounge
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