Must See Things in Male – Getting around Town

Although land reclamation projects have expanded Male, it is still rather small and can be covered easily by foot or bicycle in a few hours and by taxis in a couple of minutes making it easy to visit city attractions.

Although more than ten mosques serve worshipers in Male, the one that royalty attended for Friday prayers was the 17th century Hukuru Misky thought to occupy the site of the country's first mosque. Visitors will find the interior of this coral block building fascinating with its carved hardwood door panels, trellised windows, fading red calligraphy and lacquer work. Medhu Ziyarat a stout white painted minaret by Hukuru Misky was a later addition to give the building an Islamic character.

The decorated and inscribed head stones of tombs on the grounds of the building are of sultans and their families. These reveal a series of differently designed headstones. Those of sultans are distinguished by their gold plaques, while those of males have pointed headstones and females are identified by the rounded headstones.

Across the road from Hukuru Misky is the house like tomb of Abdul Barakat Yusuf, a Persian who helped convert Maldives to Islam in the 12th century.

Another place of interest in the historic part of Male is Muleeage a residence built for the heir to the throne in the early 20th century. Although visitors are not allowed into the grounds it is interesting to observe its ornate architecture a reflection of the late Victorian style that was prevalent in neighbouring countries at the time. It housed the president once Maldives was declared a republic in the mid 20th century. For those interested in presidential abodes the new one referred to as Theemuge is in Orchid Magu is.

a hot day Sultan Park, also in the historic part of Male, may offer some respite from the heat. This is part of the palace grounds that no longer exist. Places to visit around the park include Kalhu Vakaru Miski in the south east area of the park that has been put together with no mortar between the coral stones and no nails in the wood.

The late 19th century two storied building by the park that now houses the Esjehi Art Gallery is a rare example of Maldivian traditional architecture and is impressive both inside and out.

This is among the modern examples of public architecture in the city and houses an interesting range of historical and cultural records. Adaaran Club Rannhalhi, among popular Maldives hotels, offers daily sightseeing and shopping trips to Male.

Dominating the city's landscape the centre has been designed to accommodate 5,000 worshippers for Friday prayers. Its golden dome can be seen far out at sea. Although non Muslims are not allowed in, visitors can still admire it from Jumhoorie Maidan or Republic Square the main public space on the island.

The eclectic collection of Maldivian art is a must see at the National Gallery on Majeedi Magu to get a glimpse of the country's vibrant art scene.

Another point of interest is the Tsunami Monument on south eastern Male along Boduthakurufaanu Magu, dedicated to those who lost their lives in the 2004 event. This is also the best surfing spot on the island. The manmade beach on eastern Male is also a good surfing spot.

Walking along shopping streets is generally on most visitors must see list. Majeedi Magu and Chandhanee Magu, the city's main shopping streets will not disappoint. Male market in the city's northern part, the fish market near Republic Square and the busy south west harbour area lined with cafes is where visitors can get a glimpse into local life in the city.