The Maldives, officially called the Republic of Maldives, is an archipelagic state in the southern region of Asia. It is located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka, and features a total of 1,192 coral islands. The capital and the biggest city of Maldives is Malé, which has been a prominent centre of the region’s diverse history. With a chain of 26 atolls, Maldives is one of the most exotic holiday destinations in the world. The majestic turquoise water, colourful coral reefs, serene islands, and unique flora and fauna of the region attracts thousands of visitors from all corners of the world. In addition to its majestic natural beauty, many tourists visit the Maldives to witness its local culture, traditions, history, and religious side. Maldives is also home to some of the most wonderful island resorts and hotels, making it an excellent honeymoon destination.
The islands and beachside experiences account for the majority of the tourist attractions in the Maldives. Besides that, tourists also visit Maldives to check out famous religious sites, historic landmarks, and cultural festivals in the region. Some examples include the Tsunami Monument, the Grand Friday Mosque, Independence Day, Utheemu Ganduvaru, etc.
The availability of adventure activities has massively influenced the country’s tourism aspect. Some of the most fun things you can do on your Maldives trip include scuba diving, jet skiing, dolphin spotting, parasailing, etc. For a more relaxed experience, tourists can opt for fishing or shopping in the region. The country is also known for its excellent seafood and signature style of cooking. Partying in the Maldives is also one of its main charms and draws the interest of international visitors.
Attractions in Maldives
There are various well-known tourist attractions, ranging from historical sites and natural landmarks to local events and regional festivals, in the country. Here are some of the best tourist attractions in Maldives that you can check out during your visit:
The Grand Friday Mosque
The Grand Friday Mosque is one of the best places to visit in Maldives. It is located in Malé and was opened in 1984. Its incredible architectural style and religious significance attract tons of visitors. The towering golden dome of this beautiful white-marble structure is a must-see. The Grand Friday Mosque welcomes tourists between 9 AM to 5 PM and outside of the prayer times. The massive prayer hall of the mosque can accommodate up to 5,000 people at one time.
The Tsunami Monument
The Tsunami Monument is a freestanding structure in Boduthakurufaanu Magu, southeast of Malé. It is a memorial dedicated to the 74 individuals who lost their lives in the terrible 2004 tsunami incident in the region. People visit the memorial to pay their respects and witness the architectural composition of the monument. The 20 steel spheres encircling the monument represent the country’s atolls, while the raised pillars denote the tsunami waves. It is one of the most important tourist attractions in Maldives sightseeing.
National Museum
The National Museum in Malé is another prominent tourist attraction in the country. The museum was founded with the aim to preserve the region’s rich history and raise feelings of patriotism among the country’s inhabitants. The National Museum has a massive collection of important historical exhibits, including ancient relics from the pre-Islamic period, royal antiques, coins, weapons, furniture, dresses, etc. It is one of the best places to visit in Maldives to learn about the region's diverse past.
Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha, locally called Bodu Eid, is one of the biggest festivals in Maldives. It is an Islamic festival celebrated on the following day of the Hajj pilgrimage. Tourists visit the country during this time to closely witness the local culture and traditions and take part in the festivities. The highlights of this festival include Bodumas Beynun, Boduberu, Maldivian celebration dishes, dance and music, fun games, etc. The local islands are the best places to visit in Maldives to experience the grand celebrations.
Independence Day
The Independence Day in Maldives is on the 26th of July. The day marks the country’s independence after staying as a protectorate for 77 years under the British Empire. It is celebrated by parades by the National Cadet Corps, a flag-hoisting ceremony, cultural programs, costume performances, and so on. The Independence Day celebration is one of the most prominent Maldives tourist attractions. It is also one of the best times to visit the country to learn more about the region’s history and traditions.
Prophet Birthday
This day celebrates the birthday of Prophet Muhammad. It is an important day for Muslims in the Maldives. Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday is observed on the 12th day of the Rabee-ul-Awwal month per the Islamic calendar. It is a public holiday marked by prayers, special feasts, public gatherings, and festivities. It is a great time to visit the Maldives to learn about its religious side.
National Art Gallery
The National Art Gallery is one of the most interesting places in the Maldives. Founded in 1999, the gallery is located in Malé and showcases an extensive range of remarkable art pieces by local and international artists. Make sure to visit the National Art Gallery in the Maldives during exhibitions because there are no permanent exhibits in the building.
Banana Reef
The Banana Reef is one of the most beautiful Maldives tourist places you can visit. It is among the oldest reefs in the region and features fascinating caves, coral growths, cliffs, and lots more. The clear blue water and calm currents at the reef make it a prominent spot for diving adventures. The surrounding area of the reef also features a variety of marine species, including sharks, black snapper, barracudas, and trevally.
Maldives Glowing Beach
The Maldives Glowing Beach is on Mudhdhoo Island (aka Vaadhoo Island) in Raa Atoll. It is one of the most majestic Maldives tourist places you can visit during your holidays. The glowing waves at this charming beach offer exceptional views to visitors. It is a natural phenomenon that happens due to the millions of phytoplankton residing in the ocean. They are marine microbes that emit fluorescent blue light in the water, which is especially visible after sunset. Tourists visit the Maldives Glowing Beach to spend quality time amidst the beach setting while looking at the beautiful horizon and the glowing waves hitting the sand.
HP Reef
The HP Reef, also called Rainbow Reef, is one of the most visited Maldives tourist places. Located in North Male Atoll, it is a spectacular diving spot with a vibrantly coloured seabed. You can find up to 25 metres tall vertical swim-through chimneys, crevices, caves, and other interesting formations at this spot. It is a Protected Marine Area that features marine species like barracuda, rainbow fish, tigerfish, reef sharks, etc.
Utheemu Island
Utheemu Island is one of the most well-known Maldives tourist places. It is where the historical landmark Utheemu Ganduvaru is located. It was the home of the most powerful ruler of the Utheemu Dynasty, Sultan Mohamed Thakrufaanu. This magnificent wood structure, surrounded by tall green trees, offers a visual treat for visitors. It is one of the most beautiful and historically important places to visit in Maldives.
Dhadimagi Kilhi
Located in Fuvahmulah Atoll, the Dhadimagi Kilhi acts as a breath of fresh air for locals and tourists alike. It is a large freshwater lake covered by charming lush green vegetation. The lake covers an area of around 6.37 hectares and features a serene atmosphere that attracts tons of tourists. It is also one of the best Maldives tourist places for swimming, fishing, and boating.
Activities in Maldives
The geographical location makes Maldives one of the best places in the world to go for thrilling water adventures and fun activities. Here are some of the most fun things to do in Maldives:
Underwater Scooters
Diving with underwater scooters is one of the best things to do in Maldives. It allows tourists to explore natural phenomena, like coral reefs and diverse marine life, in the best possible way. During this activity, you will be able to breeze through the clear blue water and witness the beautiful marine life while comfortably riding an underwater scooter. It is also one of the most unique things to do in Maldives. The best Maldives places to visit for underwater scooter activities are Hulhumale, Baa Atoll, and Maafushi Island.
Parasailing
Parasailing is a thrilling adventure activity that you can try in the Maldives. It involves gliding through that air on an open parachute while being towed by a fast-moving motorboat. The turquoise ocean surface, clear blue sky, and the island in the distance offer some of the most breathtaking panoramic views during parasailing. Prominent Maldives places to visit for this activity are Cocoon Beach and Reethi Beach.
Dolphin Spotting and Whale Submarine Rides
One of the best things to do in Maldives is to go on a dolphin spotting tour. During this activity, you can get a chance to witness these majestic aquatic mammals swimming and jumping in the deep blue water. Tourists can also go for Whale Submarine Rides in the Maldives, where they will be taken on an hour-long tour in an air-conditioned submarine to spot coral reefs, marine life, and whales. Male and Meemu Atoll in the Maldives are the best places for these activities.
Sunset Cruise
Going on a sunset cruise is one of the most romantic things to do in Maldives. It is usually an hour-long tour, where you can enjoy the scenic beauty alongside the phenomenal view of the setting sun. And if you are lucky, you may also be able to spot dolphins and whales making their routine appearance on the water's surface. It is a leisurely activity and is suitable for individuals of all ages. There are various locations across the Maldives that offer sunset cruises.
Fishing
Individuals looking for a slow-paced activity during their Maldives tour can consider fishing. It is a relaxed activity that feels very rewarding with every successful catch. Tourists can either go for early morning fishing or consider nighttime fishing under the mesmerising starry sky. There are a variety of fishes that they can catch, ranging from tuna and barracuda to giant trevally and snappers. Malé is considered one of the best Maldives places to visit for fishing activities.
Shopping in Maldives
There are quite a lot of renowned locations that tourists can visit to shop for unique items and regional crafts in the Maldives. Some examples include:
Majeedhee Magu
It is one of the most popular places to visit in Maldives for gifts and souvenir shopping. Located at the centre of the capital city, Malé, this street market remains filled with tourists and locals. Many people visit this market to shop for traditional dresses, like Libaas and Mundu. Other products sold at this market include perfumes, homeware, jewellery, smoked fish, local pickles, etc.
Nala Boutique
Located inside the famous Kurumba Maldives Resort, Vihamanafushi, the Nala Boutique is an exceptional store you can visit to shop for high-quality accessories and dresses. The place sells various products and is widely known for its beautiful Maldivian-designed dresses. The material quality justifies the product prices, and the store remains open from 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM.
Male Local Market
The Male Local Market is one of the best places to visit in Maldives for shopping. There are many stores and street vendors in the area offering various goods. For example, you can find shops selling regional handicraft pieces made of wood, seashell, lacquer, etc., at this location. Other products sold here include footwear, dried fruits, snacks, etc.
Food in Maldives
From grabbing drinks by the beachside to munching on regional delicacies in an undersea restaurant, there are a lot of ways you can enjoy food in the Maldives. Here are the best places to visit and dishes to try during your holidays:
Restaurants in Maldives
Ithaa
The Ithaa Undersea Restaurant on Conrad Rangali Island is a must-visit place. Located 5 metres beneath the sea surface, the restaurant makes dining a memorable affair to look forward to. Visitors can enjoy a range of delectable European cuisine while looking at the vibrant marine life and coral reefs through the transparent glass walls of the restaurant. The restaurant is one of the best places to visit in Maldives for a unique dining experience. Some of its must-try dishes include Caviar, Strawberry Mille-feuillie, Poached Reff Lobster, etc.
Seaside Grill
Seaside Grill is one of the best restaurants you can visit in Hulhumale. It is known for its reasonable pricing, extensive menu, hospitable service, and excellent views. The quality of food served here is great, and it also makes for a great place to go for a romantic dinner with your loved one. Some of its must-try dishes include burgers, grilled white fish, lamb chops, short ribs, etc.
Just Veg
Located in Atmosphere, Kanifushi, Just Veg is one of the best restaurants you can visit for delicious vegetarian dishes. The place offers a delightful range of items defined as a blend of “contemporary and traditional” culinary trends, covering recipes from Indian, Mediterranean, and Arabic regions. The surrounding views of the blue ocean water and the clear blue sky also add to the dining experience. Some of the must-try items at this restaurant are Crispy Quesadillas, Maldivian Locavore Curry, and Mango Sticky Rice.
Dishes in Maldives
Mas Huni
Mas Huni is a regional dish in the Maldives, commonly eaten at breakfast. It is a dish made from finely chopped ingredients, which mainly include smoked fish, chilli, coconut, and onion. Tuna is the primary choice when it comes to preparing Mas Huni. The final dish is eaten alongside hot tea and baked flatbread. It is a delicious dish available across various restaurants in the Maldives.
Bis Keemiya
It is a scrumptious crunchy delight and a must-try item for tourists. Bis Keemiya is a type of fried pastry made from a variety of ingredients, like flour, onion, shredded cabbage, black pepper, etc. The main filling is either made with hardboiled eggs or tuna fish. The final item resembles the shape of samosas to some extent and tastes phenomenal. It is the perfect snack to satisfy your hunger when going for the Maldives sightseeing experience.
Maldivian Vegetable Curry
The Maldivian Vegetable Curry is a local favourite and is called Tharukaaree Riha. Among the extensive range of seafood and non-veg dishes in the region, the Maldivian Vegetable Curry stands out as a delicious full vegetarian option that tourists can go for. The curry is made from various ingredients, like potato, pumpkin, green beans, etc. It is a tasty nutritional delight offered at most restaurants and street-side cafes.
Nightlife in the Maldives
The options for entertainment and partying in the region are quite extensive. It makes the nightlife one of the prime tourist attractions in Maldives. Here are some popular options you can consider for a fantastic evening in the Maldives:
White Night Party
One of the best ways to enjoy the nightlife in the Maldives is to go to the White Night Party in Kuredu. From dancing your heart out to the beat of popular DJ music to slow vibing under the luminescent lights, the place is perfect for spending a wonderful evening during your holidays. The party is known for its electrifying atmosphere and signature white dress code. It takes place every Friday at the Babuna Bar.
Nautilus Bar
It is another great place you can visit to enjoy your evenings with perfectly blended drinks and irresistible views of the horizon. It is a beautiful poolside bar that offers an elegant and peaceful ambience. The bar also features cabanas, where you can sit in comfort, slowly enjoy your drinks and listen to the soothing live music playing in the background.
Crab Racing
Individuals looking for a unique nightlife experience in the Maldives can go for crab racing. Available in Kuredu, it is a place where fun-loving locals and international visitors join in light-hearted entertainment. In this activity, several crabs are put at the centre of a circle on sand, and the first one to escape its boundary is the winner. This activity involves friendly bets, drinks, food, music, and gorgeous views of the beachside. It is also one of the prime Maldives tourist attractions.
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