Listly by Elia Mertz
One of South Asia's most famous tourist destinations is the beautiful archipelagic nation of Maldives. These are some of the most recommended things to do while in Maldives for an eventful holiday.
Being an archipelagic nation, the Maldives is great for diving and snorkeling. But what makes diving and snorkeling in the Maldives stand out is the fact that the Maldives is home to some of the world's most stunning coral reefs. Marine life thrives in these coral reefs, making diving and snorkeling all the more exciting. Diving sites such as Banana Reef, Manta Point, the Ari Atoll and the Lhaviyani Atoll are must-visit dive sites. A great place to stay while enjoying a luxury holiday Maldives has to offer in a secluded heavenly location is the Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas.
The Maldives is made over 1000 small islands, many of which are uninhabited. For this reason island hopping has become one of the most popular past times of visitors of the Maldives. These islands are beautiful and hold many hidden beauties such as hidden beaches and coral reefs. Exploring these islands is both fun and adventurous, and is a great way to spend the day. Many resorts and hotels offer island hopping tours, so make sure to explore the islands!
The Grand Friday Mosque & Islamic Centre is one the most iconic landmarks of the Maldives. Considered to be the embodiment of Maldives' Muslim culture and heritage, the Grand Friday Mosque is the largest mosque in the Maldives and is of great architectural beauty. The Islamic Centre, which is part of the mosque, houses many important cultural offices such as the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and an Islamic library. Owing to their cultural, religious and architectural significance, these structures are amongst the most visited landmarks in Male.
This one is pretty obvious. Being surrounded by so much of ocean, the Maldives is a premier water sports destination in South Asia. The warm waters, coupled with the tropical weather, make the Maldives ideal for countless hours of fun in the waters. Sports such as surfing, kite-surfing, boating, water skiing, wake boarding, and jet skiing are very popular in the Maldives.
The Male Fish Market is one of the most interesting places to visit in the Maldives. Maldives has a large demand for fish owing to fish being a significant component in Maldivian cuisine. Therefore, at the Male Fish Market you will get the chance to witness the many Maldivian fishermen offering their latest catches for reasonable prices. The typical market ambiance and culture of the fisher folk is truly intriguing, and offers visitors an authentic Maldivian experience.
The Maldives boasts some of the most glamorous spas in South Asia. Known for offering authentic spa treatments and procedures, a day in one of Maldives' luxury spas is assured to give you total bliss and peace of mind and tranquility. With treatments designed to heal, refresh, rejuvenate and revitalize, the spas of Maldives are something that you simply must try out!
Built by Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar I in the 1650's, the Old Friday Mosque is the oldest mosque in the Maldives. Constructed out of coral boulders given a tentative place in the UNESCO World Heritage list, this mosque is one of the most iconic religious landmarks of the Maldives, and its architecture and spiritual ambiance make it well worth a visit.