Qala't Bu Mahir: Gateway to Bahrain's Pearling Past
Explore Qala't Bu Mahir, a historic fort in Muharraq, Bahrain, and discover the island's pearling past along the UNESCO-listed Pearling Path.
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 crucial role in protecting the pearling industry and offers visitors a glimpse 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 cooler months (November to March) for a more comfortable experience.
- Check the opening hours before visiting, 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 fully appreciate the historical context.
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 offers a unique perspective of the island. The boat service typically operates daily (except Tuesdays) between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm, departing every 45 minutes. A return ticket costs approximately 1 BHD.
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Public Transport
From Manama, take the A1 bus to Muharraq. Alight at Muharraq Bus Terminus. From there, you can take a taxi to Qala't Bu Mahir, which should cost around 3-4 BHD. The bus journey from Muharraq to Manama costs approximately $1. Alternatively, you can walk from the bus station to the Pearling Path Visitor Center and follow the pearl-shaped streetlights to Qala't Bu Mahir.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Muharraq. A taxi ride from Muharraq International Airport to Qala't Bu Mahir costs approximately 4-5 BHD and takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.
Discover more about Qala't Bu Mahir
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bumaher Castle
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بحر المحرق العام جنب قلعة بوماهر
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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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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
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Muharraq Heritage valley
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Kurar House
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Discover Bahrain's heritage at Kurar House in Muharraq, a museum and working studio preserving the art of Kurar embroidery.
Al Muharraq historical downtown
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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
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Escape to Al Ghouse Park in Muharraq for a serene retreat amidst lush greenery, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
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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Discover Bahrain's pearl diving heritage at Bait Al Ghouse, a local history museum showcasing the cultural significance of this ancient industry.
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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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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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
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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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Voltage Lounge 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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POSH LOUNGE
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Beats Lounge
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