For many Maldives are the concentration of paradise islands with endless snow-white beaches , crystal clear water and developed tourist infrastructure. Some travelers do not even realize that this country has other interesting places, historical and architectural monuments. That's why before you fly to the Maldives, you should know in advance about their sights, to make your trip even more exciting.
Cultural Attractions of Maldives
Most of the historical and architectural monuments of the country are concentrated on the territory of the capital, which is the starting point of all excursion programs. Travel to the Maldives you need to start with Male , so as not to lose sight of the following attractions:
- The Friday Mosque (Male Khukukra Miskiu), erected in 1658 during the reign of the Sultan of Maldives, Iskanadar I;
- National Museum , where archaeological finds and ancient artifacts are collected;
- The Islamic center , which is the main decoration of the Maldivian capital;
- The Presidential Palace , which can be recognized by its beautiful blue and white color, forged gates and tall columns;
- the crypt of Sultan Ibrahim , built around 1648-1687;
- Park Sultana , created on the site of the former Sultan's palace.
Each of these architectural monuments tells about the history of the island state, its past and present rulers.
Natural Attractions of Maldives
Despite the large number of architectural monuments, the main decoration of this country is its amazing nature. The whole state is literally based on coral atolls, considered the most beautiful on earth. Travelers come to the Maldives to visit their main attractions - white sandy beaches, surrounded by azure sea water and overgrown with coconut palms and mangroves. Especially for tourists here are luxurious hotels that organize an unforgettable vacation with a high level of comfort.
Tourists who do not know that you can see the Maldives, be sure to visit the following groups of islands:
- Addu Atoll (Cine). Previously, the archipelago was used as a site for the deployment of the British Air Force base. Now it is a paradise for lovers of diving and snorkeling, as it allows you to enjoy the beauty of coral reefs and watch the turtles and exotic fish.
- Baa Atoll . Centuries ago, this archipelago was a refuge for seafarers shipwrecked. Nowadays tourists come to the atoll to do windsurfing , sea fishing , diving and other water sports.
- Hulule Island. It is a whole island-airport , serving as the main transit point of the Maldives. In addition to the developed transport infrastructure, it pleases tourists with its white sandy beaches and crystal clear ocean waters.
- South Male Atoll . The archipelago is known for the fact that there are protected marine reserves around it, the underwater world of which amazes with its wealth and splendor. Local dive centers organize dives in places considered to be the best sites in the world.
- Atoll of Dhaalu . This place is amazing with its mangrove thickets, in which sea turtles still nest. In addition to watching these animals, you can go surfing, diving, night fishing or cycling.
- Mimu Atoll . Suitable for lovers of ethnographic and gastronomic tourism. Here you can visit the ancient fishing village, where you can make a barbecue or freshly caught fish.
- Ari Atoll . It consists of 18 inhabited islands and 26 resorts. Many of them are located near the barrier of the coral reef, so in their waters you can observe the huge rays, gray reef sharks, moray eels, giant napoleons, sea turtles and rare exotic fish.
This is only part of the most famous and notable Maldives. True, rest on them is considered one of the most expensive. Tourists who travel with children and want to rest on a budget should go to Maafushi . On this local island there are several dozen guest houses of different price categories. Like other islands of the Maldives, Maafushi's main attractions are beaches, and the main attractions are underwater diving and snorkeling.
Rules for visiting attractions in the Maldives
Being in this island country, as in any other country in the world, it is necessary to comply with certain requirements. Visit the sights of the capital of the Maldives, the city of Male, should be in closed clothing. Beach clothes, especially outdoor swimsuits, can be worn only on special bikini-beaches. It is forbidden to drink alcohol outside the resort zone. In addition, here it is categorically impossible:
- damage to marine and terrestrial animals;
- to break or take with them dead or living corals;
- to raise the surface of marine life;
- to engage in underwater hunting and fishing off the coast;
- to bathe in the open sea;
- bathe or sunbathe topless;
- throw garbage.
By observing these rules, you can enjoy a calm and measured rest. And although there are no grandiose architectural monuments and centuries-old cities, the sights of the Maldives leave behind an indelible impression and remain in the memory of tourists for a long time.