Qala't Bu Mahir: Gateway to Bahrain's Pearling Past
Explore Qala't Bu Mahir in Muharraq, Bahrain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the starting point of the Pearling Path, revealing the island's pearling history.
Qala't Bu Mahir, also known as Bu Maher Fort, is a historic fort in Muharraq, Bahrain, marking the beginning of the Pearling Path, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in 1840, it played a vital role in Bahrain's pearling industry, offering visitors a glimpse into the island's rich maritime heritage.
A brief summary to Qala't Bu Mahir
- 6JR7+GCH, Muharraq, BH
- +97317298777
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit on days other than Tuesdays, as Qala't Bu Mahir is closed on Tuesdays.
- Stop by the Bahrain National Museum before visiting to gain context about the area's history.
- Capture stunning photos during sunset overlooking the Manama city skyline.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the fort and the Pearling Path involves walking on uneven surfaces.
Getting There
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Walking
Qala't Bu Mahir is located at the southern end of Muharraq Island and is best accessed by first reaching the Muharraq Souq area. From the souq, follow the Pearling Path streetlights, distinguished by their pearl-shaped design, south towards the coast. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes, passing through historic streets and offering glimpses of traditional Bahraini architecture. The fort is situated on the seashore, easily visible as you approach. Note that the path involves walking on paved and unpaved surfaces. There are no costs associated with this route.
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Public Transport
From Muharraq city center, take a local bus towards the southern end of the island. Alight at the bus stop closest to the Muharraq Coast Guard. From there, it's a short 5-10 minute walk south along the coast to reach Qala't Bu Mahir. A single bus fare costs approximately 0.20 BHD.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in Muharraq, a taxi or ride-share to Qala't Bu Mahir is a convenient option. Simply provide the destination name to the driver. The ride typically takes 5-10 minutes depending on the starting point and costs around 1-2 BHD. Note that the fort is not directly accessible by car, so you may need to walk the last few meters.
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Ferry
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.
Discover more about Qala't Bu Mahir
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bumaher Castle
0.0 km
Explore Bumaher Castle in Muharraq, Bahrain: a historic fortress and the starting point of the UNESCO-listed Pearling Path.
بحر المحرق العام جنب قلعة بوماهر
0.6 km
Discover Bahr Al Muharraq, a serene coastal escape by the historic Bu Maher Fort, blending natural beauty with Bahrain's rich maritime past.
Star Marine Services - Boat Trip / Sea Trip to Jarada Island
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Experience the magic of Jarada Island with Star Marine Services: Luxury sea tours, unforgettable memories.
The Green Corner
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Discover Bahrain's artistic soul at The Green Corner in Muharraq, a unique architectural gem housing art, literature, and environmental treasures.
Abdullah Al Zayed House for Bahraini Press Heritage
1.4 km
Explore Bahrain's press heritage at the beautifully restored Abdullah Al Zayed House, a tribute to the founder of journalism in the region.
Traditional Houses of Muharraq
1.4 km
Discover Bahrain's pearling history and unique architecture in the beautifully restored Traditional Houses of Muharraq, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Muharraq Heritage valley
1.4 km
Discover Bahrain's vibrant past in Muharraq Heritage Valley, a UNESCO site showcasing traditional architecture and the island's pearling legacy.
Kurar House
1.4 km
Discover Bahrain's heritage at Kurar House in Muharraq, a museum and working studio preserving the art of Kurar embroidery.
Al Muharraq historical downtown
1.5 km
Discover Bahrain's pearling past in Al Muharraq's historical downtown, a UNESCO World Heritage site with traditional architecture and vibrant culture.
Al Ghouse Park
1.5 km
Escape to Al Ghouse Park in Muharraq for a serene retreat amidst lush greenery, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Bahrain National Theater
1.5 km
Experience world-class performances in a stunning architectural masterpiece at Bahrain's premier cultural destination.
Busaad Art Gallery
1.5 km
Explore Bahrain's vibrant art scene at Busaad Art Gallery, a cultural gem in Muharraq showcasing the works of Ebrahim Busaad.
End of the Bahrain Pearling Path
1.5 km
Conclude your journey through Bahrain's pearling history at this tranquil public square, the final stop on the UNESCO-listed Pearling Path in Muharraq.
Siyadi Mosque
1.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Siyadi Mosque in Muharraq, a testament to Bahrain's pearling heritage and Islamic traditions, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bahrain National Museum
1.5 km
Discover 6,000 years of Bahrain's history and culture at the Bahrain National Museum, showcasing ancient artifacts and traditional heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pearling Pathway Visitor Center 1- BuMaher Fort
0.0 km
Explore Bahrain's rich pearling history at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, the starting point of the Pearling Path in historic Muharraq.
Bait Al Ghouse
0.3 km
Discover Bahrain's pearl diving heritage at Bait Al Ghouse, a local history museum showcasing the cultural significance of this ancient industry.
Muhraq beach
0.3 km
Experience a relaxing coastal getaway at Muharraq Beach, a tranquil escape on the historic island of Muharraq, Bahrain.
Dar Al Muharraq
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Experience the vibrant live music scene at Dar Al Muharraq, a cultural gem in the heart of Bahrain, showcasing local talent and artistic heritage.
قطعة حمد Qit'at Hamad K
0.5 km
Discover Qit'at Hamad K in Muharraq, Bahrain: A serene escape into the island's rich cultural heritage, showcasing traditional architecture and offering a tranquil retreat.
Muharraq sign
0.5 km
Discover Muharraq's rich pearling history and vibrant culture at this iconic landmark, a gateway to Bahrain's heritage and traditions.
بيت الجلاهمة - Al-Jalahma House
0.5 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural significance of Al-Jalahma House, a heritage gem in Muharraq, Bahrain.
بحر المحرق العام جنب قلعة بوماهر
0.6 km
Discover Bahr Al Muharraq Public Beach: A serene coastal escape blending historical significance with tranquil waterfront relaxation by Bu Maher Fort.
بحر المحرق العام جنب قلعة بوماهر
0.6 km
Discover a serene coastal retreat at Bahr Al Muharraq Public Beach, blending relaxation with Bahrain's rich pearling history and cultural significance.
Al Sayadeen view point
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Discover panoramic coastal views and Bahrain's rich heritage at Al Sayadeen View Point in Muharraq, a tranquil escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Fakhro House
0.8 km
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Murad Majlis ( Previously Sheikh Mohammed bin Saqer Al- Moawda Majlis - مجلس الشيخ محمد بن صقر المعاودة)
0.9 km
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Dhow Building yard
1.0 km
Witness Bahrain's maritime history come to life at the Dhow Building Yard in Muharraq, where traditional boats are still crafted by hand.
منزل المرحوم علي أمرالله الأسدي The house of Ali Amrallah ALasadi
1.0 km
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Mohammed Bin Faris House for vocal Music
1.0 km
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Essential places to dine
Cafeteria Reem AlBawadi
0.5 km
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Trabzon Istanbul Restaurant مطعم طرابزون اسطنبول
0.6 km
Savor authentic Turkish flavors at Trabzon Istanbul Restaurant in Muharraq – a culinary haven for food lovers.
Al Isha restaurant ( Kerala Restaurant)
0.7 km
Experience the rich flavors of Kerala cuisine at Al Isha Restaurant in Muharraq – a delightful journey into India's culinary heritage.
Apna Dera Restaurant Muharraq Branch
0.7 km
Discover authentic Indian flavors at Apna Dera Restaurant in Muharraq - where every dish is a celebration of taste and tradition.
New Lahore Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience the rich flavors of Pakistan at New Lahore Restaurant in Muharraq, where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Grill & Thrill
0.8 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine at Grill & Thrill in Muharraq - where every dish tells a story of rich flavors.
Qasr Alsadaf Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Bahrain at Qasr Alsadaf Restaurant in Muharraq, where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Our Old House مطعم ومقهى بيتنا القديم
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Experience authentic Bahraini cuisine at Our Old House in Muharraq - where tradition meets taste.
Wafoy Restaurant
0.8 km
Discover authentic Bahraini flavors at Wafoy Restaurant in Muharraq, where culinary tradition meets warm hospitality.
Gulf Sea Restaurant
0.8 km
Discover Gulf Sea Restaurant in Muharraq – where fresh seafood meets authentic Bahraini flavors in a vibrant coastal setting.
Tanjah Restaurant
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant tastes of Kerala at Tanjah Restaurant in Muharraq – where every meal is a celebration of authentic cuisine.
Vivasayi Restaurant
0.9 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Bahrain at Vivasayi Restaurant - where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Kudukkachi Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine at Kudukkachi Restaurant in Muharraq – where every dish tells a story of flavor.
Ramla Grill Restaurant
1.0 km
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Tandoori Tawah Restaurant W.L.L
1.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Riza Hijabs bahrain
0.4 km
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Family Train Muharraq
0.9 km
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JAHRAMI COLD STORE
1.0 km
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Bukhnaq boutique
1.1 km
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Ghawar Boutique Muharraq
1.1 km
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Ajmal Perfume, Souq Muharraq
1.1 km
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سوق المحرق التجاري
1.1 km
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Teeb Al Karam Perfumes
1.1 km
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Souq Al Muharraq
1.1 km
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Baghdad Abayat
1.1 km
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Ahyan Fashion
1.1 km
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Al Haramain Perfumes - Muharraq
1.1 km
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الزعيم المعسلات واشياشAlzaeem Mosalat
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NAFIYA BOUTIQUE MUHARRAQ
1.1 km
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KISWAH BOUTIQUE MUHARRAQ
1.1 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Beard Club
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Beard Club, a must-visit bar in Muharraq, Bahrain, perfect for unwinding and enjoying local culture.
Shift 7
1.3 km
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Sports Bay Bahrain
1.9 km
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Voltage Lounge Bahrain
2.0 km
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Cocoluna Lounge
2.0 km
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Havana Bar & Lounge
2.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and delicious grilled cuisine at Havana Bar & Lounge in Manama, the perfect spot for food lovers and nightlife enthusiasts.
Fiddlers Green Irish Pub
2.1 km
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Bahrain
2.2 km
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Republiq Lounge Bahrain
2.2 km
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Spice club Restaurant
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The Harvesters
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Wembley
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POSH LOUNGE
2.4 km
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Hawaiian Shack Rooftop, Juffair
2.4 km
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Beats Lounge
2.4 km
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