Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Addu City is a well-structured urban centre with a distinct character and organised layout. It has a strong sense of community, where daily life follows local customs and a steady rhythm. The city is known for its coastal setting, marine life, and long history of fishing and trade. Local markets, traditional cuisine, and daily routines reflect the region’s culture. The city also has a well-planned infrastructure, making it convenient for both residents and visitors. With its natural surroundings and strong cultural identity, Addu City offers a genuine insight into the local way of life.
Addu City Location
Photo: Amd Creation / Unsplash
Addu City is located in the southernmost region of the Maldives, within Addu Atoll. It is composed of several inhabited islands, including Hithadhoo, Maradhoo, Feydhoo, Hulhudhoo, and Gan Island. As the second-largest city in the Maldives, it holds a unique position in the archipelago.
About Addu City
Photo: Ibrahim Asad / Wikimedia Commons
Addu City, also known as the “second city” of the Maldives, is the only urban centre of similar size and importance to Malé. It has a population of approximately 18,000 people living across seven islands connected by causeways and land reclamation. The city has a distinct cultural identity, with residents known for their independent spirit and unique dialect. Addu City is also a popular base for those looking to explore traditional Maldivian island communities, with resorts providing access to these local experiences. Its well-structured layout and strong cultural roots make it a significant part of the Maldives.
History Of Addu City
Photo: Afrah ahmedafrah / Wikimedia Commons
Addu City has a deep-rooted history, with evidence of settlements on Meedhoo island dating back to 2000 BCE. The earliest settlers are believed to have come from regions in present-day India, including Gujarat and Bihar, as well as Sri Lanka. It was among the first areas in the Maldives to adopt Islam around 800 years ago. Addu is known for its strong seafaring traditions, with skilled navigators trading goods with Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia, and China. In 1941, the British established a secret naval base in the atoll, leaving a lasting influence on Gan, Feydhoo, and Hithadhoo.
How To Reach
Photo: John McArthur / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Addu City is accessible through multiple travel options, ensuring a smooth journey for visitors.
By Air: The easiest way is to fly to Gan International Airport in Addu City. Domestic flights operate from Velana International Airport in Malé, taking about 75 minutes. There are also international flights from Colombo, Sri Lanka.
By Sea: Addu City is a designated clearing point for international yachts. Some cargo boats travel from Malé, which takes about 2 – 3 days.
By Road: Within Addu City, the islands are connected by causeways, making road travel easy.
Places To Visit In Addu City
Addu City, often called the “second city” of the Maldives, offers visitors a blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and cultural richness. Here are some notable places to explore:
1. Gan Island
Photo: Peggychoucair / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Gan Island is a famous place to visit in Addu City and is known for its historical significance and role in aviation. It was once a British military base, and remnants of that time can still be explored, including old buildings and military structures. The island is home to an international airport, making it a key entry point to Addu City. Visitors can walk along its scenic coastline, explore historical sites, or relax at the Equator Village resort, which was once part of the military settlement. The island also offers diving sites with vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Location: Addu City, Maldives
Timings: Accessible year-round
Entry Fee: No entry fee; charges may apply for specific attractions
2. Addu Nature Park
Photo: David Stanley / Wikimedia Commons
Addu Nature Park is a protected area that showcases the region’s rich biodiversity. It includes the Eydhigali Kilhi wetlands and the Koattey conservation area. The park is known for its rich birdlife, including native and migratory species. Wooden walkways and viewing platforms allow visitors to explore the area while preserving its ecosystem. The park also includes scenic cycling routes and guided kayak tours through calm waters. The park is designed to support eco-tourism while preserving its unique habitat. It is a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, contrasting the more developed parts of Addu City.
Location: Hithadhoo Island, Addu City, Maldives
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM daily
Entry Fee: $7 (₹605.67)
3. Hulhudhoo Harbour
Photo: Enrapture Captivating Media / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Hulhudhoo Harbour is a centre of activity, reflecting the island’s maritime heritage. It is a key hub for local fishermen, with boats arriving daily with fresh seafood. The harbour area provides an opportunity to observe the traditional fishing practices of Addu’s residents. Nearby, small markets and stalls sell freshly caught fish, making it an interesting place for visitors to explore. The harbour also serves as a docking point for boats travelling between different islands, making it an essential part of local transportation. For those interested in daily island life, Hulhudhoo Harbour is one of the best places to visit in Addu City.
Location: Hulhudhoo, Addu City
Timings: Open access
Entry Fee: NIL
4. Meedhoo Island
Photo: Pexels / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Meedhoo Island is a popular place to visit in Addu City, known for its deep cultural roots and long history. The island has a well-established community with traditional homes and local mosques that reflect its heritage. Visitors can experience the hospitality of the islanders and observe their daily routines. Fishing is a major part of life here, with fresh seafood commonly available. The island offers a peaceful setting, making it ideal for those who want to experience local life away from busy tourist spots.
Location: Northeastern end of the atoll, within Addu City
Timings: Accessible year-round
Entry Fee: NIL
5. Mathikilhi Eco Garden
Photo: jplenio / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Mathikilhi Eco Garden is a dedicated wetland area developed to preserve local ecosystems and provide a natural retreat for visitors. It features several water bodies, with the largest centrally located being surrounded by grasslands supporting various plant and animal species. It is one of the best places to visit in Addu City and was created through local efforts to promote environmental conservation. It serves as both a recreational space and an educational site, highlighting the importance of wetland habitats. Managed in partnership with government and community groups, the garden continues to be maintained as a protected area.
Location: Meedhoo, Addu City, Maldives
Timings: Open year-round
Entry Fee: MVR 10 (₹56.16) for locals; MVR 50 (₹280.78) for tourists
Things To Do In Addu City
Photo: Brandon McDonald / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Here are some of the key experiences to have in Addu City:
Swim In Clear Waters: Enjoy a refreshing dip in the warm sea, where gentle waves make for an easy and relaxing swim. It’s an ideal way to cool off and take in the surroundings.
Snorkel With Marine Life: Explore shallow reefs and spot colourful fish in the crystal-clear water. Coral formations and diverse marine species make snorkelling a must-try experience.
Go Scuba Diving: Dive deeper to discover hidden caves, shipwrecks, and larger marine creatures. The region’s dive sites offer encounters with manta rays, sharks, and vibrant coral reefs.
Kayak Through Hidden Lagoons: Paddle through calm waters and explore mangrove forests or secluded lagoons. This slow-paced activity allows for close-up views of birds and marine life.
Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Balance on a paddleboard and glide across the water at a steady pace. It’s a relaxing yet engaging way to explore Addu’s coastal areas.
Cycle Around The Islands: Ride through quiet villages, coastal roads, and scenic pathways. The flat terrain makes cycling an easy and enjoyable way to see local life.
Enjoy Local Maldivian Food: Taste fresh seafood, coconut-based curries, and regional delicacies. Small cafés and local eateries offer simple yet flavourful meals that reflect island life.
Watch The Sunset By The Shore: End the day with a view of the sun dipping below the horizon. The sky’s changing colours create a peaceful setting along the coastline.
Seasonal Activities In Addu City
Photo: Ranae Smith / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Addu City’s changing seasons shape the experiences available, from calm, sunlit waters in the dry months to wind-driven activities during the wet season. Each time of year offers something different to explore.
1. Take A Night Fishing Trip: The dry season provides clear skies and calm waters, making it a great time for night fishing. Join local fishermen to catch reef fish using traditional hand lines under the starlit sky.
2. Explore Seasonal Sandbanks: Temporary sandbanks emerge during the dry season, offering a chance to relax on isolated patches of white sand surrounded by the open sea.
3. Go Deep-Sea Fishing During Peak Season: The dry months bring optimal fishing conditions, attracting big-game species like tuna and marlin. Charter a boat for an offshore fishing experience in deeper waters.
4. Try Kitesurfing In The Windier Months: The wet season brings stronger winds, creating the right conditions for kitesurfing. Riders can harness the breeze to glide across the waves, especially along the south-facing coastline.
5. Take a Seasonal Dolphin-Watching Tour: Certain months, particularly during transitions between dry and wet seasons, see increased dolphin activity. Boat tours offer a chance to spot pods of dolphins swimming near the atoll.
6. Explore Rain-Fed Mangroves: The wet season replenishes mangrove areas, making it a good time to explore these ecosystems by boat. These sheltered waterways attract seasonal birdlife and marine species.
7. Capture Seasonal Landscapes: The contrast between the bright, dry-season beaches and the moody, rain-washed scenery of the wet months makes Addu City an interesting place for photography throughout the year.
Where To Stay
Photo: Vojtech Bruzek / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Addu City offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences. Canareef Resort Maldives provides spacious villas with private patios, three outdoor pools, and diverse dining options, making it ideal for both relaxation and adventure seekers. For a blend of comfort and history, Equator Village Maldives, set in a former British Royal Air Force Sergeants’ Mess, offers cosy rooms amidst green gardens and an inviting swimming pool. Travellers seeking modern amenities can opt for South Palm Resort Maldives, featuring stylish rooms, a spa, and stunning ocean views. These accommodations ensure a comfortable and memorable stay in Addu City.
Where To Eat
Photo: Dana Tentis / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Addu City boasts a range of dining establishments catering to various tastes. Palm Village is renowned for its authentic Maldivian cuisine, offering dishes rich in local flavours in a welcoming setting. For seafood enthusiasts, Power Park serves freshly caught seafood prepared with a local twist, providing a delightful culinary experience. Elly Bistro offers a fusion of international and Maldivian dishes in a chic atmosphere, making it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Annie Spratt / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
The average trip cost to Addu City, Maldives, depends on various factors such as accommodation preferences, activities, and travel style. Budget travellers might spend approximately $1,200 (₹103804.07) to $2,500 (₹216258.49) per week, opting for guesthouses and local eateries. Mid-range visitors could anticipate expenses between $3,000 (₹259510.18) and $4,500 (₹389,265.27) weekly, enjoying mid-tier resorts and guided tours. Luxury seekers may incur costs exceeding $10,000 (₹865033.94) per week, indulging in high-end resorts and exclusive experiences.
Tips For Travellers
- The Maldives follow Islamic customs, so be mindful of cultural norms. It’s courteous to ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in local communities.
- The weather can be hot and humid. Drink enough water and wear hats, sunglasses, and sunblock to prevent dehydration and sunburn.
- Avoid touching coral reefs or disturbing marine life when swimming, snorkelling, or diving. Dispose of waste properly to help keep the environment clean.
- While major establishments accept cards, small shops, markets, and local eateries may only take cash. Having local currency on hand can be useful.
- Rain showers can occur, especially outside the dry season. If planning outdoor activities such as diving or island excursions, check weather updates and be flexible with schedules.
Addu City offers an authentic glimpse into Maldivian life, blending rich history, diverse marine life, and well-connected islands. Visitors can explore historic landmarks, savour local cuisine, and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region. With a balance of culture and modern comforts, it promises a rewarding experience. Plan your journey with TripXL for a seamless and well-organised trip.
Cover Photo: lovemaldives / Wikimedia Commons
