Things To Do In Maldives

Maldives is probably one of the most pristine holiday destinations in the world. Unspoiled and not overly crowded, it is the perfect getaway for those desiring peace, quiet and a great time. The country is famous for its beaches, lagoons and extensive reefs, and those wonderful over-the-water bungalows. A premier scuba-diving destination, Maldives beckons you with its many charms. Here’s a list of things you can do in Maldives.

The National Museum of Maldives, at Sultan Park in Male is the erstwhile residence of the Sultan of Maldives. It was made accessible to the public in 1952 making it easier to get an insight into the history of this island nation. Originally a three-storied building, it presently has only two floors as a significant chunk was destroyed by a fire way back in 1968. The museum showcases a well-maintained collection of curios and artifacts crucial to the history of these islands; right from the Buddhist times up to the Islamic era. This place is a must for all history enthusiasts.

The Grand Friday Mosque is a principal tourist attraction in Male. This is a well-maintained Islamic center, with a distinct architecture. Also called the Masjid-al-Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam, it is the largest mosque in Maldives and its impressive golden dome dominates the skyline of Male. It was opened in 1984 and was built with help from the Gulf States, Pakistan, Brunei, and Malaysia. Situated near the main square, the Grand Friday Mosque in plain white marble is a landmark of the city of Male.

When in Maldives, you just have to go scuba-diving. Fish Head, situated in North Ari Atoll, is one of the top-10 diving sites in the world. Initially a shark feeding spot, the Government has now declared it a Protected Marine Area. Enjoy the views of steep cliffs, explore hidden caves and dive to witness the colours of the ocean at Banana Reef. Manta Point is another spectacular diving spot. Snorkel or scuba-dive with Manta rays weighing as much as 5,000 pounds as they float by effortlessly with a whopping wingspan of 25 feet!

HP Reef is also known as Rainbow Reef. You can find a variety of corals here. You can go swimming through a 25-metre cave, known as the chimney, while observing the diverse marine life of the Indian Ocean. Located in the North Male Atoll, HP Reef witnesses strong currents all year round. You need to take a lot of precaution while diving here, and even while checking out the corals and marine life.

If you have an appetite for luxury, then head to either Six Senses Laamu or One & Only Reethi Rah for a refreshing sand massage experience right by the turquoise ocean. This hands down is the best way to end your vacation in Maldives. Choose from a range of therapeutic and ayurvedic massage options. If you are on a romantic getaway this should be on the top of your list.

Want to see the Ocean glow in the dark? It's a spectacular experience and one that you can catch at Maldives only if you are at the right place at the right time. Here's a tentative list: The Bio-luminescent plankton can be seen in Kuredu in November, Reethi in October, Fihalhohi during August and September and in Veligandu during January. 

You can go see the Presidential palace, which is known as Muleeage locally. It is situated right opposite the Male Friday Mosque, or the Hukuru Miskiiy, in the capital city of Male. Muliaage has been home to four presidents till now. The architecture is representative of the colonial era. The Palace was built by Sultan Md. Shamsuddeen III for his son. As of now, it can only be viewed externally, as visitors are not allowed inside.