Best Places to Visit in Maldives
Heaven on Earth is what some might call this place. It consists of a chain of about 1,200 small coral islands and sandbanks. With shimmering clear water, gorgeous coral reefs, and white sand beaches, it is a traveler’s paradise.
So, while you are searching for a Maldives tour from India, make sure all these places are on your itinerary.
Banana Reef
Literally shaped like a banana, when seen from above, the breathtaking Banana Reef is a scuba divers dream come true. If you’re a photographer, get ready to take some of the most amazing underwater shots of your lifetime. You can also partake in water sports/activities like snorkeling while you’re there. A little fun fact about the Banana Reef is that, it is the first dive site to be discovered in the Maldives, and it continues to be the most popular. The main attractions here, are a huge variety of fish such as bannerfish, sweetlips and squirrelfish among others.
Artificial Beach
The name might not sound appealing to you, but the place will. The crescent-shaped beach in Malé, is man-made. It attracts a large number of visitors throughout the year, with majority of them wanting to find peace and quiet. A perfect spot to go for a swim or a long walk during sunset. There are multiple local vendors, selling a whole range of street food for you to try. Various carnivals and live music concerts are held at the beach, from time to time.
Mirihi Island
A small island, situated in the Alif Dhaal Atoll, it has been a host to a lot of tourists since 1989. It is known for the Mirihi Island Resort, a five-star property amidst tropical gardens. The accommodation here ranges from Overwater Suites, Water Villas, Beach Villas, and dining options that offer the most scrumptious world-class cuisine. It is a family friendly resort, which also offers water sports like snorkeling, ocean pro diving etc.
Grand Friday Mosque
The Islamic Centre was opened in November 1984 by President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. The Grand Friday Mosque, located in the Centre, is named after the one of the most celebrated Maldivian heroes, Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam. It was built with help from the Gulf States, Pakistan, Brunei and Malaysia. One of the largest mosques in South Asia, it has the capacity to admit over 5,000 people. Its exquisite golden dome can be seen from far away, and is one of the most talked about things amongst tourists. The artwork in this mosque is out of this world. This magnificent structure, with its amazing coral engravings and tombs of national heroes and members of royalty, provides the tourists with the glimpses of the past.
National Museum
A well-maintained collection of artefacts can be found here. They help in tracing historical events. The museum is home to a lot of royal antiquities ranging from the Buddhist and Islamic era. It also holds various costumes and ornaments of the former kings and queens, cloth and paper manuscripts, and anthropological objects to arms and armor etc. It may not be wrong to consider this place a paradise, for the lovers of history and crafts.
Hulhumale
Refreshing, is what you will feel, when you visit this place. It is surrounded with freshly planted trees, open beaches with golden-white sand and stunning blue waters that will take your breath away. The island is built around the idea of a green world. Its architecture and energy programmes have been a crucial part of this initiative. There are many such initiatives in progress. It is the first island, among others, to go against littering. The airport is situated right next door, making Hulhumale a great stoppage point. Try local food and dine in exquisite restaurants while you’re there.
Whale Submarine
Maldives is well known for its beautiful marine life. You cannot miss this experience, when you come here. It’s a breathtaking underground ride, with tropical fishes surrounding you from all sides. This 45-minute adventure is all you need in your lifetime. So, book your tickets as soon as you can.
HP Reef
Also known as Girifushi Thila, or ‘Rainbow Reef’, this place is aptly named after the abundant presence of brilliantly colored soft corals. It is the one of the best and most beautiful dive sites on this island nation. One may call it the soft coral capital of the world. Strong currents flow through the Somosomo Strait, replenishing these corals with rich nutrients. Today, this reef is a Protected Marine Area in Maldives. It is completely covered in stunning yellow, blue and orange soft hanging corals. The current attracts variety of small reef fish and other species such as gray reef sharks, eagle rays, tunas and barracudas. Diving here would be an out of body experience for you.
Utheemu Ganduvaru
Home to Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu, who is one of the most celebrated heroes in the Maldivian history, Utheemu Ganduvaru is located in Utheemu in Haa Alifu Atoll, in the northernmost corners of Maldives. Ruling Maldives for over 12 years, Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu died in the year 1585. He is celebrated for being considerate, just and concerned for the well-being of all, regardless of their economic and social condition. Visit the palace, which was built between 1512 and 1528, and is still being preserved for generations to see. It is antique, old-fashioned and has a homey feel to it.
Tsunami Monument
It was built in the memory of the victims of the devastating 2004 tsunami, located in Boduthakurufaanu Magu. The incident occurred on the 24th of December and claimed the lives of 74 Maldivians. It stands as a beacon of hope after tragedy. It is frequently visited by the families of the victims and by keen historians as well.
