Male' city, Maldives

                            Male' city is one of the  place to visit in my bucket list. Male', The capital of Maldives is the extraordinary, fascinating place with narrow street and densely crowded areas. Male provides the best offer to see the ‘real’ Maldives away from the resort buffet and infinity pool. The colored buildings, alcohol free bars, shops, lively markets really tempts you  to visit the place again.

 Male' is the capital city of the Maldives . Male’ is also the financial and commercial capital of the country. Accordingly major government offices, banks and businesses are based on Male’.Male’ city is one of the most densely populated cities of the world. 

Climate

             Malé has a tropical monsoon climate . The city features a mix of both wet and dry seasons, with the wet season lasting from May through December and the dry season covering the remaining four months. Unlike a number of cities with this climate, Malé experiences relatively consistent temperatures throughout the course of the year, with an average high of 30 degrees Celsius.

Attractions

Republic Square

Once you reach Male’ you will be greeted by a giant flag located in the Republic Square proudly displaying the national colors of the Maldives. This square has a small park where locals and visitors hang-out. The Republic Square is found close to the north shore of Male’.

Right next to the Republic Square you will find the Headquarters of the Maldivian National Defense Force and Maldivian Police Service. The Islamic Center is also found next to the square.

Islamic Center

The Islamic Center opened in 1984, is a popular attraction for tourists. The Islamic Centre is known for excellent architecture fused with traditional Maldivian and Islamic concepts. The magnificent golden domes of the Center ornament the skyline of Male’.  The interior of the mosque is adorned with intricate wood carvings and Arabic calligraphy.

The building houses the largest mosque in the Maldives named after the national hero of the country Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam. It also has a large conference hall, numerous offices and an Islamic library.

Friday Mosque

The Friday Mosque is a testament to Maldivian craftsmanship. The mosque was originally built in 1658. The Friday Mosque was mainly built using coral stones. These coral stones display elaborate stone carvings. This historic building preserves to this day traditional Maldivian art forms like wood carvings and lacquer works.

A coral stone minaret is located next to the mosque building. This minaret was previously the tallest minaret in the Maldives. A 17th century cemetery surrounds the Friday Mosque. Gravestones in this cemetery display intricate stone carving. The Friday Mosque is included in the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Sultan Park

Sultan Park is located in front of the Republican Monument unveiled to mark 30 years of independence. The Sultan Park is the best public spot in Male’. Large trees and colorful flowers create a welcoming feel. Previously the Sultan Park site housed Maldivian Royal Palaces.

National Museum

The National Museum was first opened in 1952. However, the place underwent a major revamping process and a brand new National Museum was opened in 2010. The museum preserves a wealthy collection of items.

Artifacts and relics from pre- Islamic period to post Islamic period are displayed here. Regal dresses and items associated with Maldivian royalty can be explored. A rich collection depicting Maldivian craftsmanship and artistry is also displayed. You will even have the chance to discover moon rocks in the museum.

Food

Traditional Maldivian food consists of three main items and their derivatives: coconuts, fish and starches.

The most important curry in the cuisine of the Maldives is cooked with diced fresh tuna and is known as mas riha. .

Try at least one local delicacy before you conclude your visit to the Maldives. Savour foods prepared by international chefs, for international visitors in international restaurants. You will never feel homesick for food, during your stay in the Maldives. 

Shopping

Products of internationally acclaimed brands are available in boutique shops operated in the major resorts. All most all the resort islands have shops that sell basic items like food, clothing, medicine, cosmetics and stationeries.

There are amazing collections of sapphires and jewels available in the jewelry shops of the major resorts. Explore varieties of accessories available at these shops. In the markets, they sell authentic lacquer works, dhoni crafts (miniatures of traditional boats), wood carvings, mat weavings, coconut shell products, coir ropes and clothes. 

A visit to the Maldives is not complete without visiting the epicenter of the country. Indulge in shopping in various markets and shops . Enjoy feast from excellent restaurants and cafes offering international and local cuisine. Make memories there!!!!!!
For more information, visit www.visitmaldives.com/