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 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 as a defensive stronghold and harbor. Today, it offers visitors a glimpse into Bahrain's rich history and stunning coastal views.
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 optimal lighting for photography, especially at 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.
- Take a boat from the Bahrain National Museum for a scenic approach to the fort.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Pearling Path to explore other historical sites in Muharraq.
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Qala't Bu Mahir by public transport, take a bus to Muharraq. From the main bus terminal in Muharraq, you can take a taxi or walk to the fort. The closest bus stops are Airport Avenue-3/Muharraq Park and Airport Avenue-4/Muharraq Park, about a 5-minute walk away. A single bus fare within Muharraq costs approximately 0.3 BHD. A short taxi ride from the bus terminal to Qala't Bu Mahir will cost around 1-2 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. Ask to be dropped off at Qala't Bu Mahir near the Bu Mahir Visitor Center. Expect to pay around 1-2 BHD for a short trip within Muharraq. Taxis in Muharraq have a starting price of approximately 2 BHD, with an additional cost of about 2.20 BHD per kilometer.
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Boat
A unique way to access Qala't Bu Mahir is by taking a boat from the Bahrain National Museum in Manama. Boats depart approximately every 45 minutes and offer a scenic journey to the fort. A round-trip ticket costs approximately 1 BHD. The boat service operates daily, except on Tuesdays, with the last trip departing at sunset.
Discover more about Qala't Bu Mahir
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bumaher Castle
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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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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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Ghawar Boutique Muharraq
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Ajmal Perfume, Souq Muharraq
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Teeb Al Karam Perfumes
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Baghdad Abayat
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Shift 7
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