5 Authentic Souvenirs to Buy in the Maldives - Mementoes from the Tropical Island Paradise

While being one of the favourite traditional souvenirs among the many tourists to the Maldives today, hand-woven mats, or “Kunaa” in Dhivehi, were an indispensable item of functionality for early natives in the island nation, used for sitting and sleeping among other purposes. Even just the manufacturing of a single “Kunaa” involves a rather extensive process; firstly, screw-pine leaves need to be left in the sun to be tried. Once dried enough, they are applied with natural dyes to paint them in colours. Finally, with the use of a simple loom and a knife, the mats are given various patterns by cutting the pandanus leaves.

Roanu Veshun in Dhivehi, or coir ropes for travellers to the island nation, are one of the most popular handicrafts in the Maldives. The use of coir ropes goes back to the beginning of time, where they were widely used by the islands’ early settlers for a plethora of purposes, from constructing huts and hammocks to even sailing ships. In the modern-day Maldives, Haa Alif Atoll in the northern part of the archipelago is known for producing the finest of coir ropes in all of the nation’s islands.

For an archipelagic nation that is ringed by nothing but palm-fringed beaches, it is no surprise that the Maldives abound with coconut shell products. Coconut palm, one of the most common species of trees in the island country, can be found almost everywhere, especially on the picture-postcard beaches. After a day of delightful retail therapy, shopping for authentic island souvenirs, retreat to one of the finest 5-star hotels in Maldives, the likes of Saii Lagoon Maldives, and call it a day.

Fun and exciting experiences to be had in the Maldives are undoubtedly plentiful, but your island getaway wouldn’t be complete without one of the archipelagic nation’s traditional boat rides — the classic Maldives Dhoni cruises. While you certainly can’t take a dhoni back home, you can however pick up a dhoni craft — intricately fashioned models of the traditional sailing boats. Quaint doesn’t even begin to describe these model boats that make the perfect ornament to sit on top of your fireplace at home.

Stroll any local marketplace or souvenir shop, and you will find that “Laajehun” is an unmissable sight no matter where you go — the Maldives’ most favoured lacquerware. From vibrant boxes to bowls and vases and a whole host of other beautifully decorated and handcrafted items, your shopping for authentic Maldives souvenirs would hardly be complete without a few lacquerware in the bag. Browse the myriad of options, ranging from colour to design, where you are left absolutely spoiled for choice.