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From the turquoise lagoons of the Maldives, beyond the horizon lies an entire world waiting to be discovered. Places to visit near the Maldives include culturally enriching, nature-filled, and spiritually enriching countries that make a perfect companion to your island getaway. Transport yourself from the lush green hills of Sri Lanka to the hustle and bustle of India, to the futuristic cityscape of Singapore. All these destinations present a different story while still being a rewarding addition to the island’s peace. Continue your journey into the land where culture, adventure, and cuisine meet.
10 Places To Visit Near Maldives
Places to visit near the Maldives might show us the interesting combination of island life, culture, and busy urban energy.
1. Sri Lanka
Photo: Rashod Korala / Wikimedia Commons
A mere hour’s flight from Malé, Sri Lanka, ranks high on the list of places to visit near Maldives. The contrasts on the teardrop-shaped island are remarkable: golden beaches, misty mountains, historic ruins and colourful cities. Start in Colombo if you want a taste of modern Sri Lanka and then make your way to Kandy and the equally famed Temple of the Tooth. The cultural triangle has great UNESCO sites such as Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple. If you like tea, you should also check out the beautiful plantations in Nuwara Eliya, while wildlife safari enthusiasts can head for Yala or Udawalawe National Park for safaris.
Top Highlights: Sigiriya Rock, Kandy Temple, Yala National Park
Best For: Heritage, wildlife, scenic landscapes
2. India
Photo: IM3847 / Wikimedia Commons
The Maldives is easily accessible to the southern states of India; in particular, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, which are rich in their cultural experience. Kerala, also called the state of God, is an idyllic world of gorgeous backwaters, spice gardens and Ayurvedic resorts. There is the sunny, cosmopolitan city of Kochi, steeped in its colonial heritage and cutting-edge art scenes, and there are pristine, cool hill stations such as Munnar and its cool mountain air and beautiful tea plantations. Tamil Nadu has marvellous temples like Meenakshi in Madurai and the old craft of Mahabalipuram. The multi-ethnic festivals, delicious food and hospitality offered to the visitors of the region make the experience highly immersive.
Top Highlights: Backwaters, Meenakshi Temple, tea plantations
Best For: Spirituality, culture, wellness
3. Thailand
Photo: Jungjin Moon / Unsplash
Thailand is both colourful and diverse, which is why it is among the most renowned tourist attractions near Maldives. Thailand has a diversity of experiences, starting with the crazy capital of Bangkok, full of grand temples and street markets, going all the way to the tropical paradise of Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui. Cities in the north, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, offer cultural diversity which includes ancient temples, hill tribes and emerald landscapes. Thailand has some of the most famous foods that people will love, and the adventurous person can enjoy walking around through jungles, waterfalls and other colourful festivals.
Top Highlights: Bangkok markets, Chiang Mai temples, Phuket beaches
Best For: Food, nightlife, cultural diversity
4. Singapore
Photo: Supanut Arunoprayote / Wikimedia Commons
Singapore is a cosmopolitan city-state that is modern yet rich with culture, and it therefore proves to be an interesting stop just after the Maldives. Singapore is a clean and safe city with some of its iconic attractions such as Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay and Sentosa Island. The multiculturalism of the city guarantees the diversity of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western culture, which is also observed in city neighbourhoods like Chinatown or Little India. The gourmet will be delighted by the world-renowned hawker centres with cheap but good food.
Top Highlights: Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, Sentosa
Best For: City life, shopping, luxury experiences
5. Malaysia
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
Malaysia is a diversified destination, with its mixture of urban centres, stupendous rainforests, and flattering islands, making it one of the ideal attractions near Maldives. Kuala Lumpur is a city of shiny Petronas Towers, active markets, and rich gastronomy. Naturalists can visit the old rainforests of Borneo, where they can see strange wildlife such as orangutans and proboscis monkeys. Langkawi is a tropical paradise with clean beaches and crystal water, where you can enjoy water sports and relaxation. Malaysia possesses a multicultural background of Malays, Chinese, Indian, and native elements that form a rich landscape of culture that can be seen in the Asian country through its festivals and cuisine.
Top Highlights: Kuala Lumpur skyline, Langkawi beaches, Borneo rainforests
Best For: Nature, multicultural vibe, adventure
6. Indonesia
Photo: Alfiano Sutianto / Unsplash
Among the best places to see near Maldives, Indonesia excels with its vast archipelago and wide-ranging cultural diversity. Bali is the most famous island; visitors can go on a spiritual retreat, enjoying beautiful beaches and rich arts. For example, on the island of Java, you can visit Indonesia’s most famous temple, Borobudur; Mount Bromo has great volcanic scenery; and Sumatra has incredibly dense rainforests with some of the rarest wildlife in the world. The beauty of Indonesia is in how its population has merged aspects of Hindu, Buddhist and indigenous culture into a stunning weave of culture; it is a beautiful and varied country with numerous colourful festivals and ceremonies.
Top Highlights: Bali temples, Mount Bromo, Borobudur
Best For: Adventure, spirituality, island life
7. Seychelles
Photo: Tobias Alt, Tobi 87 / Wikimedia Commons
Seychelles is a beautiful archipelago located in the Indian Ocean and one of the most stunning places to visit near Maldives. As a luxurious yet virgin paradise, it is well known for its white sandy beaches, clear crystal waters, and distinctive granite rock formations. Couples who love nature can visit the Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage site that features the rare Coco de Mer palm, as well as a diverse array of plants and animals. The islands are a great place to do diving, snorkelling and hiking. It is next to the Maldives; hence, the perfect next port of escape to proceed with your island experience.
Top Highlights: Anse Source d’Argent, La Digue, Vallée de Mai
Best For: Honeymoons, luxury, pristine beaches
8. United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates provides an exciting contrast to the peaceful beaches of the Maldives with such futuristic cities, desert experiences, and luxurious life. Dubai is full of skyscrapers, malls, and popular attractions such as the Burj Khalifa and the Palm Jumeirah, whereas, in Abu Dhabi, you can see cultural landmarks such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Individuals who have an interest in desert landscapes can have an exciting experience of dune bashing and Bedouin-style camping. Being one of the most accessible places to visit near the Maldives, it is just the right destination to visit if you are looking to have a side of glamour, culture, and excitement.
Top Highlights: Burj Khalifa, desert safari, Sheikh Zayed Mosque
Best For: Modern architecture, shopping, desert tours
9. Oman
Oman is an undiscovered stone on the Arabian Peninsula and one of the most culturally rich places to visit near Maldives. The landscapes are breathtaking from the golden sands of the Wahiba Sands to the green, rugged mountain of Jebel Akhdar and the turquoise fjords of Musandam. In Muscat, the traditional souks and beautiful mosques indicate Oman’s rich heritage, while coastal towns like Sur reflect Oman’s ancient maritime history. Oman is less commercially developed than the neighbouring destinations, which means that you will get more of an authentic and peaceful experience.
Top Highlights: Muscat’s souks, Wahiba Sands, Nizwa Fort
Best For: Offbeat travel, landscapes, traditional culture
10. Nepal
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
Nepal is an awe-inspiring Himalayan country, which provides the most brilliant tourism experience after the Maldives, with a total change of scenery and energy and is therefore among the richest places to visit near the Maldives. Famous as the land of the majestic mountains, Nepal attracts trekkers on famous trails such as Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit. However, the nation is also highly spiritual over and above being adventurous, as the temples, stupas, and palaces, which are centuries old, depict the influence of both Hindu and Buddhist cultures.
Top Highlights: Everest trails, Pashupatinath Temple, Pokhara lakes
Best For: Trekking, meditation, mountain views
When exploring places to visit near Maldives, you’ll uncover rich culture, history, and dramatic landscapes. From ancient temples and misty mountains to bustling cities and serene sanctuaries, nearby destinations offer unique adventures. Whether it’s spirituality, luxury, or wild nature you seek, extending your Maldives trip adds unforgettable depth. Don’t stop at turquoise waters—discover vibrant cultures just a short flight away. Plan your extended escape today with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Evan Krause / Unsplash
