Things to Do in Male
Activities To Do in Male
Though it is a small city, there are many interesting things to do in Male that make any vacation on the island capital a splendid experience full of adventure and romance. From admiring the Islamic and pre-Islamic architectural sites to gazing at awe-inspiring modern monuments to shopping in the local markets, there are many fun-filled things to do in Male. Because of its close proximity to other important islands in Maldives, and its smooth water transport system, enjoying Male also means enjoying the beauties of the other islands around itMale is a small city and can therefore be explored efficiently over the course of a single day. There are several monuments that make for good sightseeing spots, and you will also find many parks and beaches where you can sit back and relax in peace. A city tour of Male is the best and the most comprehensive way to enjoy the myriad sights of the city since a local guide will not only be able to conduct you better through the tiny streets but also add a pinch of adventure to the sights by flavouring them with local insights. Hulhumale, the artificial sister island of Male, should also be included in your city tour since it basically acts an extension of the main capital, and has many interesting monuments to see and restaurants to dine in
When you are in Male, you cannot miss out on its beaches. Water sports are among the best activities to do in Male, and they can be enjoyed in all their depth and variety on the beaches around Male. Scuba diving and snorkelling are the most popular adventure activities in Male, but other interesting things like sea walks and submarine rides can also be enjoyed here.
Simply lounging on the golden beaches is also a wonderful activity in itself. Male is a destination full of romance and adventure and heading over to it on a vacation is a blessed experience.
Hulhumale is a gorgeous island in the North Male Atoll that makes for one of the best places to visit in Male Maldives. It is a place for a perfect vacation away from the hubbub of city life that caters to all kinds of travelers be it family, friends, partner and even if you are travelling solo. From strolling around the pristine beach and taking in the breathtaking views of the surroundings to going shopping for as long as your heart desires at the Centro Mall, this island will keep you entertained at all times.
Hulhumale also allows you to commune with nature at the Hulhumale Central Park where you can witness the flora and lush green surroundings. While at this island, you cannot miss out on the capital city of Male and the authentic local delicacies that are absolutely delectable. Making for one of the most beautiful places to visit in Male, the thrilling water sports including snorkeling and swimming with the dolphins will satiate your need for adventure and exhilaration. Make the most of your time on this remarkable island and create moments with your loved ones to be cherished forever.
Location: Filigas Magu, Malé, Maldives
Timings: 8 AM - 7 PM
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A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this mosque is worth witnessing and is known for its glorious architecture and the historic tradition. There is also a graveyard in the mosque where the tombs with rounded tops mark indicate graves of the women while the ones that have a pointed tops mark represents the graves of the males. The creativity side of the Maldivian people is very well portrayed through this remarkable building as it brings out the pure artistry making for a sight to behold. The mosque was initially built to accommodate significantly increasing devotees as the old one was small. Do not miss out on this sea-culture architectural marvel while in Male Maldives.
Location: Reethigas Hingun, Malé, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives
Timings: 6 AM - 7:30 PM
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Home to royal antiquities from various eras including the Buddhists and Islam, it is a perfect place to visit for the ones who are inquisitive and fond of history. The museum also holds the collection of robes, headgear, thrones, palanquins, royal sunshades and other furniture used by the sultans. Possessing everything from lacquer work boxes, Buddhist and Hindu idols to old cannons and pictures of political events, the museum offers an incredible display aiming to instill the feeling of patriotism among the citizens of Maldives. It is a huge building with different collections on all the floors, each of which allows you to delve deep into the past imparting extensive knowledge.
Location: Chaandhanee Magu, Malé, Maldives
Entry Fee: MVR 100 for adults and MVR 20 for children
Timings: 10 AM - 4 PM on all days and closed on Fridays
Nestled in the capital of Male, Mulee Aage is the place of residence of the President of the Republic of Maldives. Dating back to 1906, this building represents the magnificent colonial architecture and retains the old world charm standing true to its glory. This building of the Mulee Aage was initially built for Prince Hassan Izzudin by Sultan Mohammad Shamsuddeen.
It is a beautiful bungalow style architecture and the style that was in fashion and trend in that era. It is a remarkable building and one of the best places to visit in Male Maldives. Mulee Aage will also provide you an insight into the stories of the past and you will absolutely love this place if you are a keen history lover. With a lot of things to observe in this palace, the interiors are worth seeing and it is a sight you should not miss out on while on a vacation in Maldives.
Location: Medhuziyaaraiy Magu, Male' City 20115, Maldives
Timings: Open 24 hours
One of the major attractions and beautiful places to visit in Male Maldives, Sultan Park was born after the transformation of the royal gardens of the palace. With an impressive historical significance and lush greenery, the park attracts tourists from around the world. A tranquil atmosphere and sheer beauty will welcome you at the Sultan Park making it one of the most splendid places in Male.
The park is located in close proximity to the other major attractions along with the airport and makes it convenient for the tourists to visit this while on a holiday in Maldives. Take a rejuvenating stroll in the park, enjoy the surroundings and relax your mind.
The park also makes for a great picnic spot with your family or partner and you can just also spend some time alone with yourself here and introspect. A perfect restaurant just outside the park will offer delicious meals and coffee for an end to an enchanting evening putting you in a cheerful mood. It makes for a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life and you can enjoy a lovely day at the Sultan Park.
Location: Malé, Maldives
Entry Fee: Free for locals and USD 5 for foreigners
Timings: Open 24 hours
The only man made beach in Maldives, Artificial Beach is absolutely stunning and one of the must places to visit in Male Maldives. Spend a relaxing and refreshing day at this beach which is nothing short of paradise. It is no less than the natural beaches and rather offers a more fun filled experience.
Witness the enticing blue waters and laze around as it makes for a perfect place to let go of all your worries and tensions. This beach allures the tourists because of its serene surroundings and its bewitching beauty. You can also indulge in the water sports that will give you the adrenaline rush and the thrill you crave for.
Take part in snorkeling, swimming and more thrilling activities at this beach. There are also some live music shows, carnivals and parades that keep happening at the beach and that makes for one of the best experiences you will have in Maldives. However, this is not all. With a huge range and variety of scrumptious street food available near the beach, it will make your vacation flawless and an enjoyable one.
Location: Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Male 20082
Timings: 6 AM- 9 PM
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Also known as the Islamic Centre of Maldives, it is one of the most riveting and glorious architectural marvels you will ever come across. Representing the Islamic architecture, this building constitutes one of the landmarks in the country of Maldives and is one of the most significant places to visit in Male. Being one of the largest mosques in the country and entire South East Asia, Masjidh Al-Sulthan Muhammad is a prominent and impressive structure with a beautiful golden dome and and a captivating minaret.
Holding a strong influence on the city’s skyline, it is a famous and one of the most important mosques in Maldives. Home to numerous conference halls where important meetings are conducted and an Islamic library imparting tremendous knowledge through books, this place attracts the tourists and is a must visit while in Maldives. There are also various offices in the building including the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and it is the most lively during the worship sessions every Friday when it lights up and looks fascinating than ever.
Location: Orchid Magu, Malé, Maldives
Timings: Open 24 hours
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One of the most historical monuments in Maldives, Tsunami Monument is one of the best places to visit in Male Maldives. This monument was built to honour and remember those who lost their precious lives in a sad event of Tsunami destruction in the year of 2004. It is not just a simple monument rather it has emotions attached to it and is also considered to be a memorial.
The people who passed away during this natural disaster have their names engraved on the rods and the people who visit the monument can read them easily. It is a peaceful location with calm surroundings and the tourists who visit here can pay their respects to the people who lost their lives and at the same time reflect and introspect on the short event that life is.
There are 20 steel spheres that encircle the monument representing the atolls of Maldives and the pillars symbolise the waves of the Tsunami. It is a must visit place while you are in Maldives and something you should not miss out on at any cost while visiting this country.
Location: Thin Ruh Park, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Malé, Maldives
Timings: Open 24 hours
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Away from the monotony of daily life, a visit to Villingili Island will transport you into a world of joy and ecstasy. Muffled up in absolute surreal natural beauty, this island is just a ferry ride away from the city of Male. The glistening turquoise blue water that is crystal clear will steal your heart in a moment as the beauty of the place is unparalleled.
The natural beaches on the island surrounded by the coconut trees offer a sight to behold and lovely experience on your vacation to Maldives. This is a place you cannot afford to miss and without which your trip to the remarkable country is incomplete. A visit to this island should be on top of your bucket list while travelling to Male.
You will experience house reef teaming of the vibrant and colourful fishes which is a unique experience in itself. Witness the aesthetic skyline of Male from Villingili Island that will leave you awestruck. Chill, relax and laze around here in the tranquil surroundings and let the day pass out. It is an experience in the surreal beauty that will leave a strong imprint on your heart.
Location: Addu Atoll, Maldives
Timings: Open 24 hours
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One of the best places to visit in Male is the Sinamale Bridge also known as the China Maldives Friendship Bridge is 2.1 km long and possesses separate lanes for pedestrians, cars and bikes. This beautiful bridge over the gorgeous sea makes for one of the major attractions in Maldives and also creates a connection between Male to the international airport of Hulhule. Sinamale Bridge is funded by the Chinese government as a sign of friendship between the two countries.
This bridge is a magnificent infrastructure in the island symbolising the improving the relations between China and Maldives and is therefore named the China Maldives Friendship Bridge. The beautiful entrance to the bridge remarkably depicts Islam along with the unity and nationalism of Maldives.
It offers mesmerising views around while making the commute for the locals extremely convenient. Prior to the construction of the bridge, the people had to commute by ferries and boats for 10 km which took significant time. But with the construction of this bridge, the residents are happy as it helps them save a lot of time and is far more convenient.
Location: Male, Maldives
Timings: Open 24 hours
More Male Activities
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Male Things To Do FAQs
Which are the best things to do in Male?
Location: Medhu Ziyaaraiy Magu, Malé, Maldives
2. Go Swimming at Artificial Beach: If you are looking for a quick respite from the bustling city if Male, go for this man-made crescent shaped beach on the East side of the island. This artificial beach has been created from the land retrieved from the sea. Have some fun time with your family or friends by going for a swim in the crystal clear water and then taking a sunbath on the fine white sand. Sit on one of the few benches and enjoy the cool breeze from the sea. If you feel hungry, there are two restaurants nearby offering mouth-watering food.
Location: Male, Maldives
3. Enjoy an underwater adventure with Whale Submarine: One of the best activities to do in Male is to go for a 45 minutes tour aboard the submarine. The submarine will take you on an exciting ride at the depth of 100-feet below. Feel enchanted looking at the beautiful coral reel, colourful fishes, like blue or yellow striped snappers, common lionfish and many more.
Location: 4th Floor, H.Sakeena Manzil, Malé 20001
4. Take a walk around Rasrani Bageecha: Known earlier as Sultan Park, this lush green park with its large shady trees and lily ponds is a great place for a relaxing walk. If you feel tired, sit and watch the beautiful fountains with their changing colours and shooting patterns. For kids, there is a play area where they can have lots of fun.
Location: Opposite the Islamic Centre on Medhu Ziyaaraiy Magu, Malé
5. Gaze at the beautiful Tsunami Monument: Visit this spiraling monument which is a reminder of the power of nature over mankind. This lovely memorial with its amazing structure reminds its visitors about the 2004 natural disaster, Tsunami. Take a look around this tranquil place and stroll around for some good photographs. Visit this place during the afternoon to enjoy watching a breathtaking sunset.
Location: Thin Ruh Park, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Malé, Maldives
6. Feel enchanted looking at the Grand Friday Mosque: Visit the Grand Friday Mosque, the biggest and most important mosque in the country. This beautiful mosque is known for its striking architecture of pure white marble with majestic gold domes. Overlooking the mosque is the solid, round blue towered munnaaru, the squat minaret. The view of the sea in the backdrop has enhanced its beauty. A visit to this place is one of the must things to Do in Male.
Location: Ibrahim Magu, Corner of Medhu Ziyaaraiy Magu, Malé
7. Know the country’s history at the National Museum: The informative National Museum is housed inside the beautiful Sultan Park. This three floored museum has Quran engravings on the wall giving an insight into the country’s history in the Buddhist and Islamic era. While the first floor displays weapons and religious and household artifacts, the second floor exhibits the modern era. Take a look at the memorabilias such as stones, antique treasures etc.
Location: Chaandhanee Magu, Malé, Maldives
8. Taste some local delights at Sala Thai: One of the must things to do in Male is to taste some authentic and freshly cooked thai cuisine. Sala Thai, one of the most popular restaurants of the city offers flavourful Thai delights. The ambience of both the inside seating area with its elegant decor, artwork and dim light as well as the bright sunlit garden seating place is very pleasant.
Location: Buruneege Hithaffinivaa Magu, Malé, Maldives
9. Visit the Malé Fish Market: One of the fun Activities to do in Male is to visit the local fish market. The market bustling with activities is the place to go if you want to feel the pulse of the city and understand their culture by interacting with them. Visit this place which is considered as the soul of Male and watch the assortment of fresh fish like yellowfin tunas and huge octopuses being brought and kept on the tiled floor by fisherman daily.
Location: 188 Ibrahim Hassan Didi Magu, Malé 20188, Maldives
10. Shop for souvenirs at Majeedhee Magu: Visit Majeedhee Magu, the one stop destination for buying souvenirs such as ethnic adornments, trinkets, garments, aromas, handcrafted souvenirs and even dried fish chips. Spanning the entire length of male, this street, famous for shopping, has an array of stores for the tourists.
Location: Main shopping street
11. Feel Amazed looking at China-Maldives Friendship Bridge:The impressive engineering work, Sinamale Bridge connects Male to the airport island of Hulhule. The unique bridge goes over the open sea with concrete placed in the bed of the sea and has two car lanes, separate lanes for motorcycles and pedestrians. The bridge was inaugurated on 30th August 2018.
Location: Male, Maldives
12. Visit Mulee Aage & Medhu Ziyaarath: The beautiful Muleeaage Palace was built in the early 20th century for the sultan and was later used as the President's residence. The place is specially worth visiting for the elaborate blue and white gatehouse Medhu Ziyaarath at the eastern end of the building’s compound. Behind the gate house is the tomb of AbulBarakat Yoosuf Al Barbary, who bought Islam in Male
Location: Medhuziyaaraiy Magu, Male' City 20115, Maldives
13. Explore the tomb of Mohammed Thakurufaanu: Explore the tomb of Mohammed Thakurufaanu, Maldives national hero, the Sultan who has been instrumental in liberating the country from the rules of the Portugese. This tomb is situated in the grounds of a small mosque, the Behrouz Kamanaa Miskiiy, at the back streets in the middle of town.
Location: Neelafaru Magu, Male
14. Indulge in various water sports: Being an island surrounded by the deep blue sea, the city of Male offers options of several water activities to its visitors. Visitors can enjoy the sea by opting for wakeboarding, parasailing, kayaking, windsurfing, flyboarding and so on. To take a look at the amazing underwater aquatic life, they can go for snorkelling, underwater submarine ride or take a glass bottom boat ride.
Location: Male
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Which are the best things to do in Male in Night?
2. Visit the Local Bars - One of the activities to do in Male at night is to go to one of the local bars which is full of tourists. You will not find any locals in these bars as they are prohibited to drink alcohol due to Islamic traditions. Some of the bars also provide entertainment by locals which are very enjoyable. Some of the bars are - Coral Bar and Lounge, Party in Da Hood etc
3. Resort Bars - Male has some awesome resort bars where you can go for a delicious dinner of authentic local food along with musical performances. Some of the resorts of Male are Paradise Island Resort, Huvafen Fushi in North Male Atoll.
4. Night Fishing - Some resorts and guesthouses organise night fishing excursions for the tourists. You can go for this enjoyable excursion, catch a fish and ask the fish to be cooked as per your choice and enjoy a lavish dinner.
5. Night Clubbing - Enjoy night clubbing and tap your feet on the dance floor to the latest or retro music by the DJ. Enjoy Boduberu, the traditional dance and music performances by the locals at the night clubs. One of the famous night clubs in Male is Kurumba.
6. Stargazing - One of the things to do in Male is to go Stargazing at night. A glance at the sky watching thousands of glittering stars and enjoying the beauty of this amazing paradise in darkness is a one of a lifetime experience.
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Which are the best water activities to do in Male?
2. Underwater Walking - Walking on the bed of the sea of a deep ocean can be a unique experience. Just put on your oxygen masks and go for an exciting walk with a breathtaking view of aquatic creatures around you.
3. Wakeboarding - Indulge in an activity that will give you the thrill of standing on a wave. One of the most brilliant water sports of Male, Maldives, Wakeboarding involves holding onto a rope while you walk on the water. Be careful to maintain your balance.
4. Kitesurfing - One of the things to Do in Male is to feel the thrill of flying like a kite over the lovely ocean water by going for kitesurfing.
5. Fun Tubing - Those looking for a fun adventure can simply get in an inflated and unpowered tube and let the waves take you for a bumpy ride at a very high speed.
6. Parasailing - Get a bird’s eye view of the beautiful Male city from above the sky while you fly away and break free during parasailing. While parasailing, you will be tied to a parachute which will be towed by a motorboat.
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What are the most romantic things to do Male for couples?
1. Go Snorkelling together - Spend some time together in the depth of the sea admiring the sea life underwater. Take a look at colourful fishes, mantas, turtles, eagle rays and dolphins while you snorkel along with your partner.
2. Pamper yourself with a Romantic massage - Indulge in a sand massage while exploring the sandy beaches together. Going for a rejuvenating couple massage is one of the activities to do in Male.
3. Take a romantic submarine ride- Enjoy a journey to the depth of ocean in an amazing submarine ride together. Feel enchanted while watching shipwrecks, sharks and shoals of colourful fishes together.
4. Go Windsurfing with your partner - Get ready for some fun with your partner while you go for the popular activity of wind surfing. Take some instructions from the instructor and then be on your own.
5. Go for a city tour of Male - Exploring the capital city of Male together is one of the things to do in Male. Enjoy looking at some natural wonders and some man-made marvels. Take walking trips together and take a closer look at the culture of the place.
6. Swim at the Artificial Beach - Nothing can be more fun and enjoyable than going for a swim with your loved one. Enjoy splashing water at each other and indulge in frolicking in the waters with your partner at the Artificial Beach.
7. Special Candle-light dinner - Many resorts and hotels in Male arrange romantic candle-light dinners for their guests at their requests. Couples can enjoy such a dinner during their trip to Male.
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Which are the best destinations for scuba diving in Male? What are its charges?
Scuba diving is one of the most popular activities in all of Maldives, and there are many tour operators that offer scuba equipment at reasonable rates to divers. Most resorts and hotels in male also have scuba diving facilities. Some of the best places to go scuba diving around Male include:
- Lhaviyani Atoll- North and South Male Atoll
- Vaavu Atoll
- Meemu, Atoll
- Laamu Atoll
- Gaafu Atoll
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Which are some famous spas to visit and get relaxed in Male?
Luxury spas abound in Male. These spas offer a range of holistic treatments that are designed to sooth the mind and the body. Many types of packages from couples’ spa packages to all-inclusive multi-day packages are offered by these spas, so you can choose the package that suits you best. Some of the best places in male for spa treatments are:
- Meeru Island Resort and Spa- Centara Ras Fushi Resort and Spa
- Veli Spa at Kurumba
- Duniye Spa
- Talise Spa
- Banyan Tree Spa
- Angsana Spa
- Lime Spa
- Azmaara Spa
- Breeze Spa at Amari Havodda
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Where can I get a cruising experience in Male?
A cruising experience is best enjoyed through the packages available from Hulhumale Island in Maldives. It is the most popular spot to start cruises from to various destinations.
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Where can I enjoy fun tube rides in Male? How much will it cost?
Fun tube rides can be availed of in Huraa islands and Kurumba Islands in Male. One can avail of a package with few other activities and fun tube experience together. Average cost of the fun tube experience will be around 50 USD.
Which are some famous places for yoga in Male?
While there are many centres around Male that offer yoga classes, there are some places that are better than the rest. Many resorts around Male offer yoga classes taught by professional instructors. Some of the best places in Male for yoga experiences include:
- Kurumba Maldives
- Empower Fitness
- Baros Maldives
- Four Seasons Maldives
Where can I do fishing in Male?
The seas around Male are rich in marine life and there are lots of fishing opportunities that you can enjoy there. Sunrise fishing and midnight fishing are popular activities in Male, and can be undertaken with ease. Most resorts in and around male offer fishing trips and local fishermen can also be engaged on fishing tours. Some of the best places to enjoy fishing in Male are:
- Lhaviyani Atoll
- Vaavu Atoll
- North Male Atoll
- Meemu atoll
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