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Male, the capital of Maldives has a vibrant culture the place is known for its very charming atmosphere. The place being smaller area-wise attracts large crowds. This city is the soul of Maldives as it showcases many important landmarks and local markets which offer a glimpse of regional living. For every visitor to this place, it has something unique to offer. Because of the city’s vibrant charm, there is an array of things to do in Male. This city is known for its beautiful mosques and colourful buildings.
10 Interesting Things To Do In Male
Here is the list of things to do in Male on your next trip. These fascinating activities guarantee you a unique perspective of life here:
1. The Local Markets
Photo: ProjectManhattan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The local markets in the capital of Maldives are a true reflection of traditional living and the daily chores of the residents. Visiting these markets, especially the fish markets, will let tourists see the trade and commerce of Male. The fish markets are a hub for buying and selling a variety of seafood from lobsters to prawns and multiple types of fish. Other traditional markets give tourists insights into the local living of residents and the Maldivian living. The markets also sell knit clothes and spices and is a good place for souvenirs and shoppers.
Location: Fish Market,188 Ibrahim Hassan Didi Magu, Malé 20188, Maldives
Best Time To Visit: Early Morning
Time To Spend: 30-45 minutes
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Maldives For Couples
2. Sultan Park
Photo: Zairon / Wikimedia Commons
Sultan Park is of utmost importance to the region of Male. The ambience of this park is very peaceful being away from the city’s shores and bustle. The pathways of this garden are always clean and the lawn is always green. Visitors can spend time under the shade of the trees and relax or take a walk on the pathway. There are slides, swings and other rides put up for children as well as a play area. This place holds historical importance too as it was once a royal garden for the king.
Location: Ibrahim Nasir Street, Malé, Maldives
Best Time To Visit: Late Afternoon or Evening
Time To Spend: 1-2 hours
3. Experience Local Cuisine
Photo: Jpatokal / Wikimedia Commons
The local cuisine of Male is just mouthwatering and delicious. The best thing about Maldivian Cuisine is that it is a blend of both local flavours and international influence. For a delightful culinary experience, it is recommended to try a few of the dishes at Seagull Cafe or any other local eateries. Things to try include Mas Huni which is a traditional breakfast made with coconut, chillies, tuna fish and onions and Garudhiya which is a typical fish soup served with steamed rice, lemon and onions. The region also has multiple cuisine options.
Location: Seagull Café, G. Paanedhaage, Hinnavaru Magu, Malé, Maldives
Suggested Read: Top Water Sports In Maldives For Your Next Exciting Trip
4. Cruise Around The Harbour
Photo: Christian Ferrer / Wikimedia Commons / Image for Representation Only
The harbour area of Male offers an array of activities which show a different perspective of the capital region. It is recommended to take a speedboat or cruise from Male’s harbour point into the sea to experience the city’s skyline and amazing views. The port of this region is busy with boats and cruises as tourists might want to explore other secluded islands near Maldives in the ocean. Some boats are meant for visitors to glance especially at the sunsets for a worthy experience of sun setting down in the Indian Ocean.
Location: Male North Harbour, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Malé, Maldives
Best Time To Visit: Late Afternoon or Sunset
Time To Spend: 2-2.5 hours
5. Local Festivals And Events
Photo: Barkave Balusamy / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Based on the timing of the trip to Maldives, tourists might come across the celebration of traditional festivals and events during that time. Festivals celebrated in Maldives are Eid-Al-Fitr, Ramadan and Eid-Al-Aldha. At the time of these festivals, the capital is beautifully decorated with lights and flowers, special prayers, feasts and cultural events organised for the locals and tourists if present during the time. Apart from festivals, certain cultural events offer insights into the Maldivian Culture. It is recommended to observe these traditions and learn about local culture.
Highlights: Celebration of National Day and Festivals including Ramadan
Best Time To Visit: Varies according to the time of festival
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Maldives With Family
6. Water Sports
Photo: Jonathan / Wikimedia Commons
Even though Male is a commercial hub, the region offers many watersports and activities to be done by tourists. Many nearby resorts offer water sports activities for both guests of the resort and tourists. Tourists usually opt for watersports, snorkelling, scuba diving and fishing trips where locals tell about the designated area for specific fishes in the Indian Ocean. The waters are calm and clear, decent enough for divers to explore marine life.
Highlights: Snorkelling, Scuba Diving and Fishing
Best Time To Visit: Morning or Early Afternoon
Time To Spend: 2.5-3 hours
7. Explore Nearby Islands
Photo: Ввласенко / Wikimedia Commons
Book resorts in the nearby islands to Male for a refreshing experience around Male. By visiting these islands, tourists are exposed to amazing beauty. Tourists get a chance to explore the local island communities and traditional living. These islands being away from the mainland offer an experience of peace and privacy. There are numerous beaches on these islands which are home to the oldest and colourful coral reefs. The islands can be reached via ferry rides from Male. The beaches are perfect for relaxation and some recreational time to be spent when in Maldives.
Highlights: Maafushi Island, Hulhumale Island and Huraa Island
Best Time To Visit: November to April
Time To Spend: A Day or Two
Suggested Read: Private Islands In Maldives For A Luxurious And Peaceful Getaway
8. Shopping At Majeedhee Magu
Photo: Basile Morin / Wikimedia Commons
Majeedhee Madhu is an area that runs across one of the markets of Male. It is a long street which is lined up with many shops. There are restaurants in this region as well. The shops sell everything from clothes to electronics and accessories. Local crafts and souvenirs can also be explored in Majeedhee Madhu. The street comprises many local eateries and cafes where tourists can try the local cuisine and some special dishes. The place is also accessible from nearby attractions like Sultan Park and Male Islamic Centre. The lane has many retail stores that await the shopaholics.
Location: Majeedhee Magu, Malé, Maldives
Best Time To Visit: Late Evening
Time To Spend: 1-2 hours
9. The Whale Submarine
Photo: Nevit Dilmen / Wikimedia Commons
The Whale Submarine operates in the ocean just a few metres away from Male. This experience leaves all the visitors in awe. The submarine operates from a harbour in Male. It provides a unique underwater experience where visitors can indulge in marine life beneath the ocean without getting wet. The submarine operates in a designated area where visitors can make the most of it and explore the underwater species and colourful coral reefs.
Location: Laccadive Sea, Malé, Maldives
Best Time To Visit: Morning or Afternoon
Time To Spend: 2-3 hours
Suggested Read: Uncover The Landscapes Of Maldives Amidst The Sandy Beaches And Blue Waters
10. In Male
Photo: Ввласенко / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Besides the vibrant city life and nightlife for which Male is known, the region is famous for its pretty beaches. Multiple beaches in and around the capital of Maldives attract tourists from borders and beyond. Some of the beaches are found on secluded private resort islands. Other beach spots are beautiful with sandy seashore and crystal-clear waters. At these beach spots, tourists can relax and enjoy. Multiple restaurants near these beaches serve multi-cuisine dishes.
Highlights: Artificial Beach, Hinnavaru Beach, Villingili Beach
Best Time To Visit: Early Morning or Late Afternoon
Time To Spend: 1.5-2 hours
This city offers a chance to understand and witness the real Maldivian living. With an array of things to do in the capital of Maldives, Male, visitors are exposed to different sides of the region. Tourists get a completely different perspective of the region. This is a bustling place where tourists can explore diverse beaches and watersports activities, connect with the heritage of this place and try the local cuisine to understand the Maldivian Culture. Book a trip to Male with TripXL to witness its beauty like a local.
Cover Photo: Shahee Ilyas / Wikimedia Commons
