Joanna James
While the Maldives may be famed for offering idyllic beaches in which to just soak up the sun, it also has some captivating places to visit. If you are looking for some adventure, consider visiting these destinations which offer much to discover.
The nation's capital, Male is a great place to explore and is home to some of the main attractions in Maldives. Since the airport can be found nearby on Hulhulé Island, you will catch a glimpse of the city on arrival and can even spend time here before departing. One of the main sites of interest is the 17th century Hukuru Miskiiy or Old Friday Mosque; the more modern Grand Friday Mosque and the Islamic Centre are worth visiting too along with the National Museum and Male Fish Market. For some shopping, make your way to the streets known as Majeedhee Magu and Chaandanee Magu.
The island of Thulusdhoo is another fascinating place to head to on your travels. It is the Kaafu Atoll's capital and is home to close to 2,000 people. One of the best things to do in Maldives is surfing and this destination is amongst the popular hotspots for this. Surfers can easily access the surf points known as Cokes and Chickens from here which provide lots of fun on the waves. The island is also an ideal spot to just unwind or even take a bike ride experiencing local life.
When planning a getaway to Maldives resorts, packages on offer at properties based in the Dhaalu Atoll are well worth considering. It provides a picturesque escape where you can experience the best of the country including at accommodation options such as Niyama Private Islands Maldives. Imagine soft sandy beaches, azure Indian Ocean waters and thrilling water sports; the atoll also offers some superb waves for surfing at the Vodi and Kasabu surf points, while snorkelling, diving, wakeboarding, kitesurfing, jet-skiing, windsurfing, parasailing and Seabob experiences can be found here as well.
Another of the inhabited islands in the Maldives, Utheemu is located in the Haa Alif Atoll. One of the main places of interest is Utheemu Ganduvaru; this is the birthplace of Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu who is a national hero remembered for his exploits in successfully defeating the Portuguese in the 16th century. His childhood home is today a museum which you can visit; on a tour, you will learn more about him as well as see what a traditional house at the time was like including its age-old wooden interiors, fascinating carvings and swing beds.
Of course, some of the best places to visit can be found beneath the waves while scuba diving in Maldives! One such hotspot is the ever-popular Banana Reef which features colourful coral, mysterious caves and diverse marine life. A protected area ideal for both novice and advanced divers, this reef offers some spectacular sights for underwater photography too. Those venturing here have a chance to spot oriental sweetlips, yellow snapper, barracuda, bluestripe snapper, trevally, Napoleon wrasse, fusiliers, sharks and more.
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.
