Maldives is among the highly preferred tourist destinations across the world. And thanks to the extensive Maldives tourism, it has become easy to explore stunning landscapes, spectacular coral reefs, and several cultural attractions. With the Maldives travel guide, you can explore sites like the National Museum, Sultan Park, Grand Friday Mosque, as well as indulge in a varied range of water sports and delectable seafood.
Male, the capital island of Maldives is a prime tourist hub that assures a perfect experience through its breathtaking sites at every corner. But do remember, as the Maldives is an Islamic nation, alcohol is not allowed for the local people. However, if you’re 18 and not a Muslim, then you can buy or drink alcohol here. Almost all liveaboard boats and resorts have a licence to serve alcohol.
How to reach Maldives?
- By air: The main international airport in the Maldives is Male International Airport, located in North Malé Atoll on Hulhule Island. IndiGo now provides flights to Maldives with direct connectivity between Maldives and Bengaluru, Mumbai & Kochi along with smooth connections to other Indian cities.
- Getting around/local transport in Maldives: The main modes to get around Maldives – boats, seaplanes and private yachts. The boats are equal to the cars of any other place, while the private yachts and planes are primarily used by the tourists. Besides these, cargo boats and public ferries are also available.
National Museum of Maldives
Discover the rich history and culture of the Maldives at the National Museum, showcasing artefacts, art, and heritage of the islands.
Exploration time: 1-2 hours
The Grand Friday Mosque
Exploration time: 1 - 2 hours
Utheemu Ganduvaru
Exploration time: 2-3 hours
Banana Reef
Exploration time: 1-2 hours
Artificial Beach
Exploration time: 2 - 4 hoursPlaces to eat
Indulge in Malé's culinary scene with fresh seafood, traditional Maldivian dishes, and international cuisine, promising a delectable dining experience.
Things To Do
There are many things to do in the Maldives, most of which includes the following:
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the Maldives is during the dry season, from November to April when you can enjoy sunny weather and calm seas.
Most commonly spoken languages
Dhivehi is the official language of the Maldives, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and in the hospitality industry.
The best place to shop in the Maldives is in Malé. You can take back some souvenirs other than local jewellery made from coral and seashells. Here are a few shopping spots that are worth visiting.
- Malé local market: This place has several souvenir shops selling exciting items like miniature boats, slippers made of palm leaves, decorative products made from seashells, wooden vases and mats. You must try the street foods and carry cash.
- Majeedhee Magu: Another great place for street shopping. You can find almost everything starting from fabrics to clothes to locally crafted items to electronics to delectable food.
- Chaandanee Magu: It is probably the best place to buy souvenirs. At Chaandanee Magu, you must pick up Maldivian mat known as ‘Thadu Kuna’ and miniature versions of Maldivian sailboats called ‘Dhonis’.
- Malé Fish Market: As the name suggests it’s a fish market selling almost all kinds of fish. Even if you don’t want to buy, a visit to this place is a must.
Experience Maldives' vibrant festivals with colourful celebrations, traditional music, and cultural rituals, offering unique insights into local island life.
More reasons to visit
Discover Maldives' pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, luxurious resorts, and warm hospitality, offering a paradise escape like no other.
- Scuba diving: Crystal clear water and an abundance of underwater life make Maldives the best place for scuba diving across the world. The best diving sites here are Baa Atoll, Hanifaru Ray, HP Reef, Manta Point, Fish Head and Banana Reef. The best time for it is between January to April when the sea remains calm and visibility goes up to 30 metres.
- Surfing: Along with diving, Maldives is increasingly becoming a popular destination for surfing. June, July and August are the best time for surfing as the surfers can enjoy the biggest waves. Some of the most known surfing sites are in Male’ Atoll.
- Water sports: Besides the best diving and surfing experience, Maldives is the hub for all water sports starting from Catamaran sailing, Banana boating, Flyboarding, Jet Skiing, Kayaking, Fun Tube, Parasailing, Kitesurfing, Waterskiing, Wakeboarding, Underwater Scooters, Kneeboarding and Stand up Paddling. You only need to select your favourite one and get started with it.
- Maldives Submarine Tours from Malé: Embark on a journey like never before to explore the underwater world of the Indian Ocean in an air-conditioned submarine. It's a must-have thing to do while visiting Malé. Get close to colourful fishes and coral reefs by descending about 30 metres below the surface. The entire 2-hour tour includes pickup and drop and is full of thrilling and unique experiences.
Visa and Immigration