Sightseeing in Maldives

Maldives is a place known for its beautiful atolls. Male, being the hub of commercial trade, is the most happening place in Maldives. Its local markets and the fish market are worth visiting. There is a big reservoir of tourist places in Maldives. Since the first resort island opened on the Male Atoll in 1972, tourism has been developed to become the most important industry in this country, there are now over 90 resorts in the Maldives, each of which is on its own island, with its own unique natural beauty, style and concept. Apart from the beautiful resorts and beaches, Maldives has a unique lifestyle, culture and architecture which are very impressive. So, take out your cameras to click the photos of these picturesque places.

 

Grand Friday Mosque

 

Grand Friday mosque is the biggest mosque of Maldives. This grand architecture of bygone times was constructed by the Sultan Ibrahim Iskandhar in 1656. It has a capacity to accommodate 5000 worshippers and also includes the Islamic Centre, library and conference hall. The golden dome of the mosque is outstanding and so is the Arabic calligraphy.

 

National Museum

 

National museum in Maldives is one of the main tourist attraction destinations of the country. Located in the Sultan Park, which was a part of the Sultan's palace, it is basically a conversion of the old palace building. It houses the former sultan's valuable belongings and several historical items. It is accommodated in the only remaining building of the former sultan's palace which is a three-story, colonial-style building.

 

Mulee Aage Palace

Located in front of the Friday mosque, Maldives Mulee Aage palace was built in the year 1906. The credit for its construction goes to the Sultan Mohamed Shamsuddeen III. It was before World War I that the Sultan built this palace for his son. This former residence of the son serves as the office of the President presently.

 

Hukuru Miskiiy

Hukuru Miskiiy in Maldives is the oldest mosque of the country that was established in the year 1956. This old Friday mosque was set up during the reign of Sultan Ibrahim Iskandhar I. Built with coral stones the interiors are carved with Arabic writings and design. It is known for its fine lacquer work and intricate woodcarvings.

 

Mohammed Thakurufaanu Tomb

The Mohammed Thakurufaanu Tomb in Maldives is a must visit tourist attraction. Located in the compound of the Bihuroazu Kamanaa Miskiiy, it has a lot of significance for the people of this country. Mohammad Thakurufaanu tomb in Maldives was built in the memory of Sultan Ghaazee Mohammed Thakurufaanu, a great national hero, who liberated Maldives from the colonial rule of Portuguese. Portuguese established their rule over the country for about 15 years after overthrowing Sultan Ali VI in 1558. It is because of this brave Sultan that the countrymen enjoy their freedom.

 

Male Fish Market

One of the major tourist attraction spots in Maldives is the Male fish market. Being the hub of commercial activities, Maldives fish market is a place that is always overcrowded with people. It is the liveliest place that will bring you to the real Maldivian life. Each day, towards evening, local boats known as dhonis start coming into the inner harbour of Male, right in front of the fish market, to unload their catch from the sea, or products or materials from other atolls which are brought and taken away by people from all walks of life as soon it is placed. It is the biggest bustling daily scene in this small village.

 

Gan

Another best place to visit for the touch of traditional Maldivian island community is at Gan on the Seenu or Addu Atoll, the southernmost atoll which combines a group of small peaceful and relaxing islands together. Gan has its long and unique history as it was the base camp for British Navy and Air Force during the WWII. For that reason, the area is quite well equipped and developed. Roads and bridges built by the British are connecting islands together making excursion across the atoll is easier, therefore, hiking and biking is possible.

 

Apart from the above specific spots, the beaches in Maldives are breath takingly beautiful. It is a pleasure to just go and holiday in this beautiful island nation. It is a very popular spot for honeymooners because of its privacy, serenity, beauty and spectacular sunsets.