Listly by Lucie Aurore
Maldives simply is paradise on earth, with warm sunshine, glittering seas and romantic shores. As a famous tourist destination, the country is the proud home to many interesting attractions.
Located in a corner of the Sultan Park, the national Museum of Maldives, the former palace of Sultan, is home to a valuable collection of ancient artifacts, from the pre-Islamic days and the Buddhist era. The exhibits of the museum include royal antiques, coins, furniture, and much more. The new building of the museum has been beautifully designed and built by the Chinese Government, yet with similarity to the interior from the days of Sultanate.
Mulee-aage Palace has been built by Sultan for his beloved son. After over throwing of Sultan, the palace gradually became The Official Residence of the president of Maldives. It is now used for hosting official meetings for The Office of the President. The colonial style of the building with its spectacular white carvings, make it a famous tourist attraction.
The glinting dome of the Friday Mosque outshines the skyline of Male. The main prayer hall of this large mosque can, easily accommodate 5000 worshippers. The hall is decorated with astonishing chandeliers and beautiful wooden doors. If you are interested in seeing the inside of the mosque, be sure to be dressed appropriately, and you will be welcomed by one of the staff members at the entrance.
Located in Utheemu, this used to be the residence of Sultan Mohamed Thankurufaan, a hero in the hearts of the Maldivians. The place is now a popular tourist attraction in the country.
Dining in an underwater restaurant is a dream comes true to most of us! Watching the fish swim by, as you taste the best of the delightful cuisine offered by one of the finest chefs in the islands, takes you to a paradise away from the worries of your everyday life. Maldives is home to several underwater restaurants such as the "Sea" at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, one of the best Maldives Hotels. Be sure to make reservations before visiting these prestigious restaurants to avoid disappointment.
Manta point is an amazing diving spot to catch a glimpse of the Manta rays. You don't need to be an experienced diver to enjoy the unique sight of the Manta rays circling around the large coral rocks. This is where the Manta rays periodically return for food and to get cleaned by the wrasses. Monsoon season is the best time to see these splendid creatures in this area.
Banana Reef is another diving site which is popular in Maldives and is reputed as one of the best. The name "Banana Reef" has been derived from its unique shape of a banana. The main highlight of this reef is its fascinating marine life. Some of the rarely seen fish such as Bannerfish, Napoleon Wrasse and Moray eel can be found in the waters here. The splendor of corals perfectly blends with the colorful fish to create an astounding view for the divers.