About Ḥimṣ
Ḥimṣ (also spelled Homs) Province in western Syria is a region where ancient history whispers from every stone. As one of Syria's largest provinces, it offers travelers a remarkable journey through layers of civilization. The provincial capital, Homs city, serves as a gateway to some of Syria's most significant historical sites. Just outside the city lies the magnificent Krak des Chevaliers, arguably the world's best-preserved Crusader castle, perched dramatically on a hilltop with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. To the northeast, the ancient city of Palmyra (Tadmur) reveals stunning Roman ruins including the Temple of Bel, monumental arches, and colonnaded streets that speak of its former glory as a wealthy caravan oasis. The province's diverse landscape ranges from the fertile Orontes River valley to the Syrian Desert's eastern expanses. While recent conflicts have impacted infrastructure, Ḥimṣ remains culturally significant with its blend of Sunni, Alawite, and Christian communities, traditional souks, and the historic Khalid ibn al-Walid Mosque featuring distinctive Ottoman architecture. The region's culinary traditions, including the famous Homs sweets, offer authentic Syrian flavors.
Upcoming Events in Ḥimṣ
Art & Craft
Asa Baako - Jungle Party
Date TBC
Busua, Ghana
From GHS 150
NightLife
Ravers Night
Date TBC
Jinja, Uganda
Free
Comedy
Comedicine by Fun Factory
Date TBC
Kampala, Uganda
From UGX 30,000
Music
Seli's Bistro presents Monthly Life Band Music with Cedi Band
Date TBC
Accra, Ghana
Free
Outdoor Activity
Sunday Potluck in the Park: a multilingual gathering
Date TBC
Accra, Ghana
From GHS 59
Entertainment
Miss Malaika Ghana 2025 Grand Finale
Date TBC
Accra, Ghana
From GHS 100
Spiritual Gathering
Reformation Community Leadership Summit
Date TBC
Accra, Ghana
Free
Things to do in Ḥimṣ
Timisoara All in One - Walking and Tram Tour
Timisoara, Western Romania
From GHS 1,008
5.0 (72)
The Grand Tour of Communist Ages at Timisoara
Timisoara, Western Romania
From GHS 720
5.0 (17)
One Day in Transylvania - Departure from Timisoara
Timisoara, Western Romania
Ecumenical Tour of Timisoara
Timisoara, Western Romania
From GHS 328
5.0 (15)
Bite your way through Timisoara - Timisoara's Street Food Tour
Timisoara, Western Romania
From GHS 720
5.0 (14)
The Jewish Heritage Tour of Timisoara
Timisoara, Western Romania
From GHS 628
5.0 (11)
Day Trip to Turda Salt Mine and Corvin Castle from Timisoara
Timisoara, Western Romania
From GHS 2,159
5.0 (10)
Timisoara Downtown Dream Tour
Timisoara, Western Romania
From GHS 393
5.0 (5)
Day trip to Timisoara, departure from Szeged
Timisoara, Western Romania
From GHS 1,963
5.0 (3)
2-Day Private Tour of Transylvania with Visit to Dracula's Castle
Timisoara, Western Romania
From GHS 11,774
5.0 (3)
Timişoara: Private Walking Tour with Local Guide
Timisoara, Western Romania
From GHS 903
5.0 (2)
Hiking back in time: The Remote Villages of Banat
Timisoara, Western Romania
From GHS 4,370
5.0 (2)
Half Day Trip to Countryside of Banat with Lunch
Timisoara, Western Romania
From GHS 1,688
5.0 (1)
One day Escape to the Countryside of Banat
Timisoara, Western Romania
From GHS 1,793
5.0 (1)
Private Transfer from Timisoara Aurel Vlaicu Airport to Timisoara
Timisoara, Western Romania
From GHS 655
5.0 (1)Places to visit in Ḥimṣ
Zoo
Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre
Entebbe, Uganda
From UGX 10
Mall
Accra Mall
Accra, Ghana
Landmark
National Theatre
Accra, Ghana
Pub
The Honeysuckle
Accra, Ghana
Pub
Sky Bar
Accra, Ghana
Pub
+233 Jazz Bar & Grill
Accra, Ghana
Stay
Lemala Wildwaters Lodge
Jinja, Uganda
From $500
Specialty
The Lawns
Kampala, Uganda
From UGX 0
Park
Extreme Adventure Park - Busiika
Wakiso, Uganda
Attraction
Murchison Falls
Masindi, Uganda
Zoo
The Reptile Village
Entebbe, Uganda
From UGX 15,000
Attraction
Sempaya Male Hot Springs
Bundibugyo, Uganda
Fine Dining
Aurous Restaurant
Kampala, Uganda
Specialty
Le Tandem
Accra, Ghana
Resorts
GKAT Resort
Mbarara, Uganda
5.0 (1)
Travel Tips for Ḥimṣ
Getting Around
Transportation infrastructure has been severely damaged. Within Homs city, microbuses and shared taxis operate but routes are limited. Private taxis are available but negotiate fares in advance. Car rentals with drivers are recommended over self-driving due to security checkpoints, poor road conditions, and unexploded ordnance risks. Inter-city buses operate but schedules are irregular. Train services to/from Damascus are occasionally operational but unreliable. Fuel shortages are common. Navigation apps like Google Maps may not reflect current road conditions or closures.
Best Time To Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) offer mild temperatures ideal for exploring archaeological sites. Summers are extremely hot, especially in desert areas like Palmyra where temperatures exceed 40°C. Winters can be cold with occasional snow in higher elevations. Many cultural festivals have been suspended due to conflict, but checking local conditions for any revived events is recommended.
Local Customs
Dress conservatively, especially for women (loose clothing covering arms and legs). Religious sites require head coverings for women and removal of shoes. Greetings are important; use formal Arabic greetings. Hospitality is highly valued - accepting tea or coffee when offered is polite. Avoid public displays of affection. Discussing politics or conflict should be approached with extreme caution. Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; 10% in restaurants if service charge isn't included. Bargaining is expected in markets. Friday is the main day of prayer and rest.
Safety Information
Syria remains extremely dangerous due to ongoing conflict, terrorism, kidnapping risks, and unexploded ordnance. Most governments advise against all travel to Syria. If travel is essential, avoid all border areas, conflict zones, and checkpoints. Security situations change rapidly. Kidnapping for ransom targets foreigners. Landmines and unexploded ordnance are widespread in rural areas. Terrorist attacks occur frequently. Always register with your embassy, maintain situational awareness, and follow local security advice. Avoid photography of military or government installations. Travel with trusted local contacts if possible.
Health Information
Medical facilities in Ḥimṣ are limited, especially following years of conflict. Al-Bassel Hospital in Homs city is one of the main public hospitals, but equipment and supplies may be inadequate. Private clinics exist but vary in quality. Travelers should have comprehensive medical evacuation insurance. Recommended vaccinations include routine vaccines plus Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Polio. Drink only bottled or boiled water. Air quality can be poor due to dust. Bring all necessary prescription medications as local pharmacies may not stock them. COVID-19 precautions remain important. Landmine contamination exists in some rural areas.
Languages Spoken
ArabicKurdishArmenian
Quick Facts
Currency
Syrian Pound (SYP)
£S or LS
£S or LS
Timezone
Asia/Damascus +03:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+963
Electricity
Driving Side
Right
Population
1.8 million
Area
42223 km²
Government
Provincial administration under Syrian central government
ISO Code
SY-HI