For many, the Maldives is synonymous with breathtakingly beautiful beaches and crystal-clear ocean waters. Thus, the primary allure of the Maldives lies in its mesmerizing islands that captivate both the eye and the soul. However, it's wise to inquire about the must-see attractions in the Maldives before your trip to avoid any regrets about missed opportunities. The tripmydream list of Maldives attractions can be a valuable time-saving resource:
- Male Hukukukru Miskiu: The Friday Mosque in the center of Male' which has a perimeter of about 60 meters. It was erected in 1658 from coral stone by order of Sultan Iskanadar I. Around it there is a cemetery of XVII century with coral tombstones.
- Masjid al-Sultan Muhammad Tukurufanu al-Auzam: The Islamic Center in Male' is the main attraction and the largest mosque in the Maldives. The six-story building houses a library, a conference hall, and a ministry of Islamic affairs.
- Muliaghe Presidential Palace: Built in Male' in 1906, it is a colonial style building. The construction began on the orders of Sultan Mohammed Shamsuddin III for his son. But after the 1936 coup, the building went into state ownership.
- National Museum of the Maldives.Located in Male' in the former colonial-style residence of the Sultan. Inside the three-storey building, there are many exhibitions on a variety of subjects.
- Sultan's Park.The park is centered around the former residence of the Sultan, now the National Museum. It is famous for its gardens full of orchids, lilies, roses, and ficus trees. Walks through it are accompanied by the singing of exotic birds.
- Maradu Island.Besides the extraordinary scenic beauty of the local scenery, the remains of British naval bases can be seen here. Another attraction is the "Bondoge" or "Big House," which was formerly a British prison.
- Tilafushi Island.One of the Maldives' most unusual sights is an artificial island 7 kilometers from Male', created from the city's garbage. The first batch of garbage was brought in in 1992.
- Hulululul Island.The island's main attraction is the airport, which takes up almost the entire island. Many people choose not to travel beyond Hulul, staying at local resorts.
- The Medusiyarai Shrines.The chapel opposite the Hukuru Mosque, which houses the tomb of Muslim traveler Abu al-Barakat Yusuk al-Barbari. The traveler is revered for bringing Islam to the country in 1153.
- The grave of Mohammed Takurufanu. Located in the Majidi Magu neighborhood near the mosque. Thakurufanu is a national hero who liberated the archipelago from the Portuguese in 1573. A hall in the Grand Mosque is also named after him.
Most of the names of Maldives attractions listed here refer to the archipelago's main island, Male'. Otherwise, the islands are flown in for a serene beach vacation.
