Top 05 Best Tourist Attractions in Maldives - Don't Forget to Check these Out!

With such crystal, clear waters rich in biodiversity is present in the Maldives, it's no surprise that the number one attraction in Maldives lies under the ocean. The Manta Point is the most popular of diving sites in the country. Why? Because this where large numbers of manta rays, a graceful species of the Elasmobranchii (class of sharks and rays); flock in large numbers to be 'cleaned'. What happens is that these great creatures line up to be cleaned by tiny cleaner wrasse fish who eat the parasites living in the bodies of the rays. Thus, both parties benefit from this curious 'cleaning station', the rays get the troublesome parasites removed and the wrasse gets a hearty meal!

If you take a diving tour to Manta Point you can witness this spectacle with your own eyes. Tours are offered by various water sports agencies as well as Maldives island resorts such as the Naladhu Maldives. The best time to go diving at the Manta Point would be in the morning as then the waters are at their clearest.

Located on the north side of the Malé Atoll, the Banana Reef is the oldest diving site in the Maldives. This is because it was the first dive site to be discovered in the country. The curious name comes from the fact that the reef is shaped like a banana, extending over 300 meters. The biodiversity of this reef is simply spectacular. Calling the Banana Reef their home is a wonderful collection of marine life such as Oriental Sweetlips, Giant Squirrelfish, Bannerfish, jackfish, Napoleon Wrasse, Moray eels, blue-striped snapper, stingrays, and white tip sharks. The reef features a variety of soft corals as well as dramatic cliffs, caves, and overhangs.

Now we go on to attractions that are of historical value. The National Museum, located in the Sultan Park is one of the notable of attractions in the Maldives. Here you are given an opportunity to gain an insight into the illustrious past of the country. Housed within the museum is a dazzling collection of artefacts that range from weapons to manuscripts, ornaments and the many costumes and jewellery worn by ancient kings and queens. The building itself was once the palace of the Royals but was later converted into a museum.

Situated in the Kaafu Atoll, the Hukuru Miskiiy Mosque happens to be the oldest Friday mosque in the country as it was constructed from the year of 1656. The mosque was named after the emperor who built it. The most outstanding feature about the mosque is its interior as you will find a stunning display of fine lacquer work and elegant woodcarvings. The structure of the mosque is made using coral stone into which Quranic script and intricate designs have been carved. There is one long panel, built in the 13th Century that depicts the introduction of Islam to Maldives. In order to gain admission to the mosque, one must act in a respectful manner and wear conservative attire. It is best to check with an official of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, before entering.

Utheemu Gandavaru is a stunning mansion that was the childhood home of the Sultan Mohammed Thankurufaan, a national hero of Maldives. The Sultan gained much respect and adoration from his people due to his historic action of helping to overthrow the Portuguese colonists in 1573. This well-preserved residence is located within the Thiladhummathi Atoll in the north of the Maldives. When you visit the gleaming white palace you will be escorted inside and shown through its 500-year-old wooden interiors that feature many wonderful highlights such as swing beds, intricate wooden carvings, a large palm-thatch shed used as a sleeping space for guests; and charming lamps, to name a few.