Tour Description
This educational tour gives you great insights into the Maldives and its capital, Male. An experienced local guide will accompany you on this tour and tell you fascinating stories about the history and culture of this nation while guiding you to the attractions of Male City.
Male is the capital of this island nation, located almost in the centre of the island chain and populates more than a quarter of the Maldives population. Male’ is the hub of trade and commerce. During this walking tour, you will see the major attractions of the Male City.
Visit the 17th-century Friday Mosque (Hukuru Miskiiy) area, the most extensive coral-made structure in the world and explore the fascinating ancient art of coral caving, then learn about the coral stone cemetery next to the mosque and know the secrets of those stones. Also, see the 16th-century minaret (Munnaaru) next to the mosque and learn why it was once the tallest building in the Male city.
See the president's official residence, built in 1919, and learn about this palace. Just a few steps ahead, there is a 12th-century tomb of Abu al-Barakaath (Medhu Ziyaaraiy), a Moroccan traveller who converted Maldivians to Islam. Learn why, every full moon night, a virgin girl was sacrificed in the temple and know the ancient religions of the country.
See the parliament building and learn how parliament members are elected from each atoll. Just a few steps ahead, passing through the oldest school in Male city, learning about the education system and knowing why Maldives has a 98% literacy rate. See the President's office, learn how democracy was introduced to the Maldives and wonder why the president has so many privileges, like his own flag, private speedboats and a private island.
Stop for a refreshing drink at a local cafe. Wander through Sultan Park and learn how the Sultanate governed the Maldives. Just in front of the park is a Victory monument, and learn how the 8 brave servicemen died for the country. Just a few steps ahead, see the architectural landmark of the Islamic Centre, explore the beautiful woodcarvings and Arabic calligraphy, and hear the colonial stories of Portuguese and British rules.
Passing through the Republican Squire (Jumhooree Maidhaan), see the country's most significant national flag hoisted and know what represents the colours on the national flag. A few steps ahead, visit the Izzudheen Jetty or President's Jetty, learn about the Maldives' islands, and learn why different islands are assigned for various purposes.
A few meters ahead, there is a Local market; taste the homemade sweets and explore the locally grown fruits and vegetables. Visit the Fish Market, see the fresh fish, explore how people work there and witness the people's daily life.
See the Theemuge and learn why this modern palace was changed from a Presidential palace to a Supreme court building. Visit the museum and explore the pre-Islamic history. See the 18th-century Kalhuvakaru Miskiiy and learn how this mosque moved from one place to another.
