Joanna James
The stunning Maldivian archipelago home to an ancient fisher nation has many fascinating points of interest. Apart from nature, there are many historical sites well worth a browse. Check out our list.
The vibrant capital island of Male is a must visit for local culture, traditions and a bustling kaleidoscope of experiences. Male has it all souvenir shops, plenty of restaurants, local cafes, museums, cultural sites and the only man-made beach on the archipelago. Sadly Male no longer retains the sandy beaches the islands are famous for. Infrastructure has stolen most of the shoreline which is why the man-made beach well makes up for this lack. Some of the most interesting things to do in Maldives Island are found on Male.
Just 25 minutes from Velassaru Maldives the National Museum is also on the capital island of Male. A range of artefacts chronicling the islands march through history is displayed there. The best place to get updated on the archipelagos journey through time the museum is well stocked with data outlining the island's culture and traditions; both before and after the introduction of Islam.
Better known as Hukuru Miskiiy the Old Friday Mosque is a cultural heritage. Sitting on the island of Ihavandhoo the mosque was constructed in 1701 CE. Built during the rule of Sultan Ibrahim Muzhiruddin the place still functions as a mosque. Well preserved this is the oldest mosque on the islands. Made of beautiful coral stones the walls are adorned with Arabic inscriptions and traditional motifs. Within the compound is a cemetery with elaborate tombs dedicated to kings, queens, sultans, national heroes and noblemen. If you want to savour the strong Islamic culture of Maldives the calm serene environs of Hukuru Miskiiy comes highly recommended.
Harking back to the original allures of Maldives, diving around HP Reef is highly recommended. Explore unique coral formations as a myriad of colourful marine life swims past. The marine protected area is located in the North Male Atoll.
The original dive spot and still the biggest lure Banana Reef is a must for all divers. Shaped like a banana the reef stretches a distance of 300 metres from north to east; this too is part of the North Male Atoll. Moray Eels, Bannerfish, Napoleon Wrasse, reef sharks and many other fascinating species thrive around the reef.
Determined to leave the smallest eco-footprint, night snorkelling expeditions consist of small groups of four. Observe feeding coral, sleeping fish, ghostly looking crayfish and moray eels on the hunt. You will be provided with a flashlight, wetsuit and snorkel as you set off on a marvellous adventure under the light of the moon.
Book a tour to the nearest sandbar from your Maldives resort. Around the South Male Atoll, there are plenty of little sandbars and islets to visit. Pack up a hearty meal, some snorkelling equipment and head out to the blue.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
