Discover the Beauty of Male, Maldives' Capital City

The Maldives is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. But the capital city, Male, often gets overlooked in its shadow of the luxurious resort islands that are scattered throughout the country. In this article, we will take a closer look at the beauty and charm of Male, and why it's worth adding to your Maldives travel itinerary.

Exploring the Vibrant and Colorful Streets

Male is a small island city that can be easily explored on foot. One of the most enjoyable things to do here is to wander around the vibrant and colorful streets. The buildings are painted in different shades of pastel colors which provide a contrast against the blue sky. You can find shops selling souvenirs, local delicacies, and street food throughout the city. Take a stroll down the Majeedhee Magu, the main shopping street, to see local life and pick up a few items that catch your eye.

Discovering the Local Culture and History

The Maldives has a rich history, and Male is the perfect place to learn about it. Begin your journey by visiting the Maldives National Museum, which is located in Sultan Park. The museum showcases the history and culture of the Maldives through its exhibits. Some of the notable things to see here include various artifacts from Buddhist ruins, royal antiques, traditional costumes, and local handicrafts.

Next, take a short walk to the Old Friday Mosque, which was built-in 1656 and is one of the oldest mosques in the country. The mosque is a fine example of coral stone architecture. The intricate carvings and decorations on the mosque's exterior are worth admiring.

Relaxing at the Scenic Beaches

While the beaches on the resort islands are probably the most well-known in the country, Male also offers some beautiful and scenic beaches that are worth checking out. One such beach is the artificial beach, located near the airport ferry terminal. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying various water sports. Another popular beach is the Rasfannu Beach, which is located on the west side of the island. The beach has clear water and white sand, making it an excellent spot for a relaxing day by the sea.

Tasting the Local Delicacies

No trip to Male is complete without trying the local delicacies. The Maldives cuisine is known for its fresh seafood, spices, and coconut milk-based dishes. One of the most popular dishes is fish curry, which is made with various types of fish and served with rice. Another must-try dish is hedhikaa, which are savory snacks that can be found in local cafes and eateries. Some of the popular snacks include bajiya, which is a pastry filled with tuna, onion and chili, and kulhi boakibaa, a fish cake made from tuna and rice.

In conclusion, Male, the capital city of the Maldives, is a charming and vibrant place that's worth exploring. It has a unique blend of history, culture, and beach scenery, making it an excellent destination for a perfect holiday. So, make sure you add Male to your travel itinerary when visiting the Maldives for an unforgettable experience.