The Tsunami Monument In Maldives

One of the most tragic incidents to happen in the last two decades is the tsunami calamity in 2004. Just a day after Christmas, when the world was still in a festive mood, a major underwater earthquake in Sumatra triggered tsunamis across the coastlines of the Maldives, Thailand, India, Sri Lanka and Indonesia. Almost every resident in these regions remembers the tragedy and the Tsunami Monument was erected as a tribute to those who lost their lives in the incident.

Located at the Thin Ruh Park in Malé, the monument is very close to the Vilingli Ferry terminal. If you’re put up at the Vandolhu islands, a seaplane ride for about 25 minutes will get you to the monument. The attraction is known for its intricate design and subtly placed metaphors. The balls carved out of steel are twenty in numbers representing the atolls in the Maldives and the design that goes bottom-to-top stands for the mounting levels of water during the tsunami. The monument also bears rods made of iron that signify the lives lost, with each carrying the name of the souls.

Amidst the hustles of the city, the monument is a good place to relax, take a walk or simply contemplate on the worth of everything before life. Ask the locals and they’ll tell you it’s less of a monument and more of hope.

Location: The Tsunami Monument

Known for: Design, serenity and a structure to remember the tragic incident

How to reach: Reach Villingil Ferry terminal and head to the Thin Ruh Park in Malé. You can find the monument. You can take ferries from your resort island and get to Malé, from where you can easily find the monument with the directions above. Ferries are the cheapest ways to get to any island in the Maldives.

Approximate Cost: Not Applicable

Operating hours: 24 hours and 7 days a week

Type: Monument