Joanna James
Maldivian Islands are paradise on earth. Any beach lover's dream destination the ancient nation has many traditional and cultural aspects to view and experience. Following are the best attractions.
This is the cherished house that national hero Sultan Mohamed Thankurufaan resided in; it's one of the nation most cherished historical sites. This vintage house is located on the island of Utheema in north Maldives. The Sultan is a national hero in acknowledgement of his strenuous fight against the invading Portuguese colonists.
Delve deep into the nation's Muslim roots by paying this treasure a visit. Hukuru Miskiiy or Old Friday Mosque is the oldest in the country. A marvellous structure composed of coral stone walls, the place is a culture buff treasure trove. The walls are inscribed with Arabic scripts while the adjoining cemetery houses elegant graves and tombstones that honour past heroes, sultans, kings and queens.
The National Museum of Maldives well chronicles a range of artefacts that hark back to the nation's past. Originally housed within a remaining section of the Old Royal Palace the museum has been shifted to new quarters built by the Chinese government. There are even artefacts there that offer an insight to the fisher nation's roots before the onset of Islam while the country's progress too is marked with interesting displays such as old gramophones and the first telephone.
Of all the fabulous Maldives places to visit the coral reefs are most popular. HP Reef in the North Male Atoll is one of the best dive spots there. Varied coral formations and a staggering array of marine life make this a hot spot amongst enthusiastic scuba divers. A marine protected sanctuary the thriving reef most certainly is a must visit.
This reef too is located in the North Male Atoll; a mere speed boat ride from Adaaran Club Rannalhi this reef was one of the first to gain prominence as a world-renowned dive site in Maldives. Extending from north to south the 300-metre long reef maintains a banana shape; hence the name. There you can spot Napoleon Wrasse, rare Bannerfish and the slinky Moray Eels. Reef shark are found in plenty while the gorgeous coral formations are real treats.
If you love these giant fish that seem to fly underwater do head over to Manta Point. There you will see the giant rays feeding and getting cleaned by the helpful wrasse; it is in fact quite interesting to see them circling the rocky outcrop waiting for their turn to be cleaned.
The private resort islands of Maldives do not offer much in terms of dining and shopping other than for the in-house restaurants and boutiques. On Male Island the capital you can experience the handicraft markets where excellent handmade souvenirs are sold. Browse the local cafes and try some of the popular snacks. Explore the traditional fish market for a taste of local culture and lifestyles and check out the archipelagos only manmade beach.
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.
