Things to do in Male: Explore the Maldivian Capital

The Glitz of Hulhumale, Maldives

Visit Hulhumalé to experience a reclaimed island located about 8 km northeast of Malé, the capital of the Maldives. It was developed to address the growing housing needs and to support the economic expansion of the country. Witness the island featuring a mix of residential, commercial and recreational areas that has been designed with great care keeping sustainability and modernity in mind. The long stretch of sandy beach on the eastern side of Hulhumalé is a tempting option for sunbathing, swimming and joyful relaxation by the sea. The beach being less crowded than those on resort islands is an abode of peace. Enjoy some adventure with water sports like snorkelling, jet-skiing and paddleboarding. A large, well-maintained park in the centre of Hulhumalé, Central Park is a great place for a leisurely walk, jogging, or a family picnic. The park is beautifully landscaped with trees, ponds and walking paths. The Hulhumalé Mosque is an architectural landmark and a place of worship for the local Muslim community. Visitors can appreciate its design and significance, although non-Muslims should seek permission to enter. Enjoy shopping from local markets and eat at the variety of restaurants, cafes and eateries presenting Maldivian, Indian and international options.

Entrancing elegance of the Grand Friday Mosque, Maldives

The Grand Friday Mosque, also known as Masjid-al-Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam, is the largest and most significant mosque in the Maldives. It is located in the heart of Malé, the capital city, and is one of the most prominent landmarks in the country. The Grand Friday Mosque was built in 1984 during the reign of President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. It was named after Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam, a revered hero who freed Maldives from Portuguese rule in the 16th century. The mosque is a symbol of the Maldives’s rich Islamic heritage and plays a central role in the religious life of the nation. The Grand Friday Mosque is renowned for its striking modern architecture, which blends traditional Islamic design elements with contemporary style. It was designed by the renowned Maldivian architect, Muhammad Hilmy. The mosque’s most prominent feature is its large golden dome, which dominates the skyline of Malé and can be seen from many parts of the city. The mosque can accommodate more than 5,000 worshippers at a time, making it the largest mosque in the Maldives. The building is made of spotless, pure, white marble, and its interior is adorned with beautiful wood carvings, intricate Arabic calligraphy and stunning chandeliers. The prayer hall is spacious and serene.

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The Symbolic Sinamalé Bridge, Maldives

The Sinamale Bridge visit is a favourite tourist attraction for visitors in Maldives for a relaxing vacation. This gorgeous bridge built over the pretty seas connects Male to the international airport of Hulhumale. Located in Male the Sinamale Bridge is also known as the China Maldives Friendship Bridge. The length of the bridge is about 2.1 kilometres, and you can enjoy its beauty by traversing across its thoughtfully constructed separate lanes for pedestrians, cars and bikes. The Chinese government financed the Sinamale Bridge as a symbol of a friendly relation between China and Maldives and thus the bridge is called China Maldives Friendship Bridge. Apart from enjoying the mesmerising views of the seas around down below, also note that the bridge has made the commute of the locals much easier by cutting down the travel time that the people took when they travelled by ferries and boats for 10 kilometres.

Catching Some Fresh Air at the Lush Rasrani Bageecha, Maldives

Rasrani Bageecha is an epitome of tranquillity in the precincts of the busy city of Malé. Rasrani Bageecha, also known as Sultan Park, is a historic public park located in Malé, the capital city of the Maldives. The park is situated on the site of the former royal palace grounds and is one of the few green spaces in the densely populated city. It is an interesting place to visit for tourists who are eager to know more about the natural and historical aspects of the Maldives. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler. This place can be clubbed with the attractions nearby such as the Malé Friday Mosque and the Maldives National Museum. This garden is known for its lush, well-maintained gardens featuring a wide variety of tropical plants, trees and flowers, making it a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

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Discover historical treasures at the National Museum, Maldives

The National Museum of the Maldives is located in Sultan Park in Malé. It is soulfully dedicated to preserving and displaying the cultural heritage of the Maldives. The museum is housed in a building gifted by the Chinese government and holds a wide array of artifacts ranging from ancient to modern times, showcasing the rich history and culture of the Maldives. The National Museum, Maldives, showcases pre-Islamic artifacts, including objects from the Buddhist era, including coral stone sculptures, copper plates and other items that reflect the Maldivian Buddhist heritage before the country converted to Islam. It also has Islamic relics such as manuscripts, traditional clothing and royal artifacts such as thrones, palanquins, ceremonial robes and jewellery. The ethnographic collections include traditional Maldivian clothing, household items, weapons and tools used in daily life, that provide insight into the Maldivian way of life through the ages. A collection of old manuscripts, legal documents and other writings provide a glimpse into the political and social history of the Maldives.

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Amazing Hukuru Miskiiy or the Old Friday Mosque, Maldives

Hukuru Miskiiy, also known as the Old Friday Mosque, is the oldest mosque in the Maldives and one of its most significant historical landmarks. Located in Malé, the capital city of the Maldives, Hukuru Miskiiy is a short walk from other important landmarks, including the National Museum and the Islamic Centre. Hukuru Miskiiy is renowned for its unique coral stone architecture. The walls of the mosque are made from finely sculpted coral blocks, which are intricately carved with Arabic script and ornamental patterns. The mosque’s interior is equally impressive, featuring elaborate wood carvings, lacquer work, and detailed calligraphy. The wooden roof and beams are made from teak, and the mihrab (a niche in the wall indicating the direction of Mecca) is beautifully decorated. The mosque also features a minaret and a large graveyard, where many notable Maldivians, including members of the royal family, are buried. Hukuru Miskiiy is not just a historical site but also a functioning mosque where regular prayers are held. It plays a crucial role in the religious life of Malé’s Muslim community. This mosque symbolises Maldives’s Islamic heritage and its historical links to the broader Muslim world. Due to its historical and architectural significance, Hukuru Miskiiy was added to UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage Sites. The mosque is a brilliant example of traditional Maldivian architecture and craftsmanship.

Feel the Furore of Malé Fish Market, Maldives

The Malé Fish Market is one of the most vibrant and culturally significant places to visit in the capital city of the Maldives. It is a bustling hub of activity where locals and tourists alike can experience the daily life of Maldivians and get a sense of the country’s fishing heritage. The Malé Fish Market is located on the northern waterfront of Malé, near the Republic Square and the Grand Friday Mosque. It is easily accessible from other parts of the city, making it a popular stop for visitors exploring Malé. The market is always bustling with activity, especially in the early morning and late afternoon when fishermen bring in their catch of the day. The atmosphere is lively, with vendors calling out prices, buyers haggling for the best deals, and the fresh catch being cleaned and prepared for sale. Also, note that the market is known for its cleanliness, which is maintained rigorously despite the large volume of fish being processed here. Witness the Malé Fish Market auction where the day’s catch is sold to the highest bidders. Watch as skilled workers clean, cut and prepare the fish for sale. Whether you’re a foodie, a photographer, or simply curious about local traditions, the market offers something for everyone. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the authentic side of Malé.

Commemorate the Lost Lives at the Tsunami Monument, Maldives

The Tsunami Monument in Malé, Maldives, is a significant landmark that commemorates the lives lost during the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami on December 26, 2004. This monument stands as a sombre reminder of the tragedy that impacted many countries in the region, including the Maldives. It is located on the southeastern coast of Malé, in the Henveiru area, near the Boduthakurufaanu Magu, one of the main roads in the city. It is situated along the coast, providing a poignant view of the ocean. The monument was designed by Maldivian architect Mohamed Ismail. The Tsunami Monument features a series of vertical steel rods arranged in a circular pattern, symbolizing the rising waves of the tsunami. There are 20 steel spheres around the base of the structure, representing the 20 atolls of the Maldives that were affected by the tsunami. The design is simple yet powerful, reflecting both the tragedy and the resilience of the Maldivian people. The rods also bear inscriptions in Dhivehi (the Maldivian language) of the names of the people who lost their lives in the disaster. It is a quiet spot where you pay homage to the victims of the tsunami.

Enjoy a Serene Break at Artificial Beach, Maldives

Artificial Beach is a popular and unique public beach located in Malé, the capital city of the Maldives. Unlike the natural beaches found on the many islands across the Maldives, this beach is man-made, offering a recreational space for both locals and tourists in the bustling city. It is situated on the eastern side of Malé Island, near the Hulhumalé Ferry Terminal. It’s easily accessible from anywhere in the city, making it a convenient spot for residents and visitors to enjoy some leisure time by the sea. Due to the dense population and urban environment of Malé, there are few natural beaches on the island. The creation of Artificial Beach has provided a much-needed recreational space where people can swim, relax and enjoy the ocean without having to leave the capital. The beach is a popular spot for families, especially in the late afternoon and evening, when people come to cool off after a day in the city. Artificial Beach is a safe place for swimming. Artificial Beach is also known for sunbathing. You can bring beach towels and enjoy the sunshine. The beach is a great spot for a leisurely stroll, particularly in the evening when the weather is cooler. The surrounding area has a promenade where people can walk, jog or just sit and enjoy the view. It is also a venue for various cultural and entertainment events. Concerts, festivals and live performances are held here at times and the sunset views here are spectacular.

Underwater Thrill with Whale Submarine, Maldives

The Whale Submarine Maldives is a unique and popular underwater adventure experience that allows visitors to explore the vibrant marine life of the Maldives without getting wet. It is an exciting activity for people of all ages, especially those who want to experience the underwater world but prefer not to dive or snorkel. It operates out of Malé, the capital city of the Maldives. The submarine departs from a location near the Hulhumalé Ferry Terminal, and is easily accessible for tourists staying in Malé or nearby resorts. The Whale Submarine is the largest passenger submarine in the world, and it offers a thrilling 45-minute underwater journey. The submarine descends to a depth of around 120 feet which is 36 meters, providing passengers with a spectacular view of the Maldives’s coral reefs and marine life. Enjoy watching a diverse array of marine life, including colourful coral formations, schools of tropical fish, turtles, and occasionally, larger species like sharks or rays. The air-conditioned cabin is equipped with large viewing windows, allowing each passenger a clear and unobstructed view of the underwater world. Be a pro and catch some scintillating photos of the underwater world of Maldives.

Shop for Souvenirs and Local Handicrafts at Majeedhee Magu, Maldives

Majeedhee Magu runs through the heart of Malé, stretching from the eastern side of the island to the western side. It intersects with many other important streets, making it a central artery in the city’s layout. The street is particularly known for its clothing stores, where you can find traditional Maldivian dresses as well as contemporary fashion. Some stores specialize in Islamic clothing, reflecting the Maldives’ Muslim culture. Majeedhee Magu is lined with a wide variety of shops, ranging from small local boutiques to larger stores. You can find everything from clothing, shoes and accessories to electronics, household items and groceries. It is a great place to pick up souvenirs, Maldivian handicrafts and other unique items. It is particularly known for its clothing stores, where you can find traditional Maldivian dresses as well as contemporary fashion. Some stores specialize in Islamic clothing, reflecting the Maldives’s Muslim culture. Majeedhee Magu has several cafés and eateries where you can take a break from shopping and enjoy a meal or a quick snack. These range from local cafés serving traditional Maldivian snacks like hedhikaa to more modern establishments offering a variety of international cuisines. Catch up with the street vendors selling fresh fruit, drinks and local delicacies.

The Enchantment of Sala Thai, Maldives

Sala Thai is situated in Malé, making it easily accessible for those staying in the city or visiting from nearby resorts. Its central location means it’s close to other popular attractions, making it a convenient dining option while exploring the city. It specializes in traditional Thai dishes, offering a wide variety of options that capture the essence of Thai cuisine. The menu includes popular favourites like Tom Yum soup, Pad Thai, Green Curry and Som Tum (papaya salad). The restaurant prides itself on using fresh ingredients, including herbs and spices that are essential to authentic Thai cooking. In addition to classic Thai meat dishes, Sala Thai offers a variety of vegetarian and seafood options, catering to different dietary preferences. Seafood is particularly fresh in the Maldives, and Sala Thai takes full advantage of this, offering dishes like prawn curry and fish cakes. Its traditional décor is warm and inviting and creates an authentic dining atmosphere. The staff at Sala Thai are known for their hospitality and attentiveness. They are knowledgeable about the menu and can offer recommendations if you’re unsure about what to order. Service is typically prompt and efficient, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. Sala Thai is reasonably priced, considering the quality of food and service. While not the cheapest option in Malé, it offers good value for money, especially for those seeking authentic Thai cuisine in a comfortable setting.

Conclusion

Malé is thus a unique and vibrant place that offers a mix of modernity and tradition against a stunning backdrop of the Indian Ocean. Despite its small size, Malé is full of charm and beauty, characterized by its colourful buildings, bustling markets, historical landmarks and coastal scenery.