Qala't Bu Mahir: Gateway to Bahrain's Pearling Past
Explore Qala't Bu Mahir, the historic gateway to Bahrain's pearling past, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's rich 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 Bahrain's pearling industry. Today, visitors can explore the fort and learn about Bahrain's rich maritime heritage.
A brief summary to Qala't Bu Mahir
- 6JR7+GCH, Muharraq, BH
- +97317298777
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the cooler months (November to March) for a more comfortable experience, as Bahrain's summer heat can be intense.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Pearling Path to fully appreciate the historical context and significance of the area.
- Take a boat trip from the Bahrain National Museum to Qala't Bu Mahir for a unique perspective and convenient access to the fort.
- Check the opening hours of the fort and visitor center before your visit, as they may vary.
Getting There
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Boat
A scenic way to reach Qala't Bu Mahir is by boat from the Bahrain National Museum in Manama. The boat trip takes you along the coast and offers a unique perspective of the island. The boat service typically operates daily (except Tuesdays) between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm. A return trip costs approximately 1 BHD.
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Public Transport
From Manama, take the A1 bus towards Muharraq. The bus ride takes approximately 25 minutes and costs $1. From the Muharraq bus terminal, you can take a taxi or walk to Qala't Bu Mahir. A taxi from Muharraq Bus Terminal 1 to Bahrain City Centre Mall (close to Qala't Bu Mahir) costs approximately 4 BHD.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Muharraq. A taxi ride from Muharraq International Airport to Qala't Bu Mahir takes approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between 4.00-6.00 BHD. Be sure to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
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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بحر المحرق العام جنب قلعة بوماهر
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بحر المحرق العام جنب قلعة بوماهر
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Al Sayadeen view point
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Fakhro House
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Murad Majlis ( Previously Sheikh Mohammed bin Saqer Al- Moawda Majlis - مجلس الشيخ محمد بن صقر المعاودة)
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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
0.7 km
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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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Souq Al Muharraq
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Baghdad Abayat
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Ahyan Fashion
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Al Haramain Perfumes - Muharraq
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الزعيم المعسلات واشياشAlzaeem Mosalat
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KISWAH BOUTIQUE MUHARRAQ
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Beard Club
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Shift 7
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Sports Bay Bahrain
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Cocoluna Lounge
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Havana Bar & Lounge
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Fiddlers Green Irish Pub
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Bahrain
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Republiq Lounge Bahrain
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Spice club Restaurant
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The Harvesters
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Wembley
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POSH LOUNGE
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Beats Lounge
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