5 Top Historical Attractions Of Maldives

Last Updated: Oct 3, 2025

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The beauty of the Maldives is not limited to the sea; its history also teaches a lot to travelers.

If you want to understand the soul of a country apart from the sea, then definitely include historical places in the Maldives. From the swords of the sultans to traditional costumes, everything will be seen in the National Museum in Male. The Friday Mosque, built in 1656, is famous for its fine carvings of coral stone and Islamic architecture. Nearby, the Mulee Age Palace offers a glimpse into the majestic history of the Maldives. Along with these destinations, if you are looking for some quiet and natural places, then islands in the Maldives like Hulhumale and Villingili are a must-visit. These places give solace after a historical experience. If you want the perfect combination of history and nature in your next trip, do not forget to include these two aspects in the Maldives tour package.

Top Maldives Historical Places To Visit

The Maldives has a deep history, which makes every journey special. The impressions of old temples, mosques, and royal families are still alive here. A visit to these places will make your trip even more memorable.

Grand Friday Mosque: Oldest Mosque in Maldives

The Grand Friday Mosque, situated in the city of Male, stands a powerful reminder of the historical legacy of the Maldives. This grand mosque was built in 1984, and its architecture reflects the Islamic heritage of the Maldives. Carvings of the Quran and traditional wooden crafts can be seen inside. It is counted among the famous monuments of the Maldives. You will find the nearby National Museum and Sultan Park also worth seeing. Timings: 9 am to 5 pm. Entry is free. A dress code is required. If you want to understand the local culture and activities of Maldives closely, then this place is a must include.

Medhu Ziyaarai: Maldives All Inclusive Spiritual Stop

If you want a special experience between faith and history, then this dargah is a must-visit. Situated on the eastern side of Male, this tomb belongs to Abul Barkat Yusuf Al-Barbari, who brought Islam to the Maldives. Its white walls and traditional wood carvings make it even more special. People come here to pray and feel the history. Nearby are Hukuru Miskiy and the local markets, which are among the best places to visit in the Maldives. You can enter from 8 AM in the morning until 6 in the evening. No fee.

Thoddu Temple: Best Historical Place in Maldives

If you are looking for historical sites in the Maldives, this Buddhist relic on Thoddhoo Island is a must-visit. Here you'll find the remains of ancient stupas, utensils, and sculptures, which testify to the Buddhist past of the Maldives. Walking in the nearby mango orchards and snorkeling on the beach are among the major highlights in the Maldives. This place is ideal for history lovers and those who want to connect with nature. If you want to spend peace-filled moments with someone special, then it is a good option to include it in your honeymoon in the Maldives package. Time is 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There are no fixed fees; It is better to go with the guide.

Utheemu Ganduvaru: Maldives Historical Attraction

If you want to see history alive, do visit this traditional palace. The house belongs to Sultan Mohammed Thakarufaanu, who liberated the Maldives from the Portuguese. Traditional Maldivian-style rooms, courtyards, and furniture can still be seen today in this old house made of wood. This place is considered among the famous monuments of the Maldives, and everything here tells the story of the freedom struggle of the Maldives. Beautiful beaches and traditional villages are also worth visiting nearby. Time is 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The entrance fee is about $5. Touring with a local guide will give you complete historical information. This site ranks among the best places to visit in the Maldives.

National Museum: A Must-Visit on Your Maldives Vacation

If you want to feel the past of the Maldives up close, be sure to visit the National Museum. Located in the Sultan Park of Male, this place was once the Sultan's palace, and its building is a beautiful blend of Islamic and colonial design. Old swords, Buddhist statues, woodwork, and royal clothes are seen here. It is a great experience for history lovers and children. Be sure to include this museum in Things to Do in Maldives, especially when you're looking for the best places to see in Maldives. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and tickets are available for just $3.

How To Reach Maldives

The journey to reach the Maldives is as easy as it is exciting. Due to international connectivity, it has now become very convenient to come here. With a little bit of planning, you can start the tour of the Maldives comfortably.

By plane: A guide for international travelers:

The primary international airport in the Maldives is Velana International Airport (MLE).

You can fly directly from Dubai, Singapore, Doha, Colombo, and India.

The leading airlines are Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and SriLankan Airlines.

Flights from India to Maldives: 

Direct flights are available from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kochi, and Chennai.

Departure of flight: About 2.5 to 4.5 hours.

The airlines are IndiGo, Air India, and Go First.

Maldives Visa and Entry Regulations:

Most countries, including India, offer a 30-day visa-on-arrival. And the passport should be applicable for at least 6 months. Book your hotel and return ticket.

Getting from airport to the resort:

Speedboat to the nearest resort (30-90 minutes).

Seaplane to distant luxury resorts (20-40 minutes).

Domestic flights to the islands in the north or south are also available.

How do you get to the historical sites of the Maldives?

Most of the historical sites are in Male and on nearby islands. You can use a local ferry, boat, or domestic flight. Stay at Male or Hulhumale to see heritage sites.

Tips for first-time travelers to the Maldives:

Book your transfer in advance to your hotel or resort. If taking a seaplane, try to arrive at the time of day. Also,  carry some cash for local ferries or entry fees.

Conclusion

A trip to the Maldives is hidden not only in the blue sea and resorts, but also in its historical sights and unique architecture. If you want a trip that is associated with beauty along with culture and history, then keep these places in your list while booking Maldives flights. Every mosque, palace, and museum gives a view of the Islamic heritage and traditions here. Couples, families, or solo travelers, everyone will find a lot to see, understand, and feel here. Don't limit your trip to the Maldives to just relaxing. Add a little history and make your trip memorable.

Quick Answers to Common Questions


The weather from November to April is clear and worth visiting.



Yes, vegetarian and Indian options are easily available in hotels and resorts.


Of course, this is a very safe country - Just take the usual precautions.

English is commonly understood and spoken, especially in tourist areas.


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Anjali

Anjali is a fresh, passionate writer who brings a unique perspective to travel and destinations. She loves exploring and sharing stories that turn every destination upside down, revealing its hidden charm and stories.