Best Things To Do in the Central Atolls

The Maldives is one of South Asia's youngest democracies, having transitioned to democracy in 2008. In the heart of the capital city of Malé, the Jumhooree Maidhaan or Republic Square was built in the year the country embraced democracy and is reportedly home to the largest flag in the Maldives. Filled with palm trees, benches and plenty of people-watching opportunities, this symbolic square is a top spot for visitors to bring snacks from the nearby northern waterfront markets. After refuelling, travellers can explore the nearby huge Islamic Centre, featuring a colossal gold dome.

Bigger, better-stocked markets than the Malé fish and fruit markets certainly exist, but for ways to get to grips with the local way of life, few places top this one. Stop by on a trip to Malé and sample the popular dried fish, fresher than fresh mangoes and bananas and taste local fruits you’ve never even heard of like “noni” and “custard apples”. If you’re lucky, vendors will let you try some for free.

Dating back to 1656, the oldest Mosque in the country (the “Hukuru Miskiiy” to locals) is as beautiful inside as out, chiselled from coral and filled with woodwork elaborate enough to catch UNESCO’s attention. Inside, check out the carvings which commemorate the Maldives’ conversion to Islam and outdoors, and decide if you agree that the minaret resembles a wedding cake.

In the cemetery next door, try to spot tombstones with gold lettering for the final resting places of former sultans. Provided shoulders and knees are covered, getting in and around the mosque shouldn’t pose a problem.

If you want to experience the most magical dive site of your life, this is the place to go! Adorned by mystic caves and a dazzling coral kingdom, you may encounter barracudas, sharks, squirrelfish and blue-striped snappers. Sea temperatures range from 24°C to 29°C.

This lively island south of Malé is the biggest success story of the Maldives' new guesthouse scene, with dozens of small hotels (and counting) lining its beaches. Travelling from nearby resorts (COMO Cocoa Island, Anantara and Jumeirah Vittaveli, to name but a few), you can discover livelier beaches, meet fellow travellers in buzzing restaurants and buy local souvenirs in a wide selection of shops (Angolo's is particularly popular).

This island is in fact an atoll in its own right, situated far out in a northern channel. A world unto itself, the island has 1,800 inhabitants, a secondary school and a clinic, and grows watermelons, cucumbers, courgettes and lemons. An intriguing set of ruins are thought to be the remains of an ancient Buddhist temple. Visitors come to take photos of the ruins and stroll along the beach, but stay for the 'raa', a refreshing toddy made from palm sap.

Over the centuries, at least six ships have capsized on the treacherous rocks around Gaafaru Falhu Island. One man’s crash is another man’s treasure… The diving opportunities offered by these fallen giants are second to none, but beware you may have to compete for a position in good conditions.

The island of Huraa has at least 750 inhabitants, enough to keep things busy without losing the island's village charm. Several guest houses ensure that there are plenty of shops, where you know that the products have been made locally, and not shipped in from India or Sri Lanka. Huraa Handmade Crafts is one of your favourites. Find out how the locals spend their days by visiting the island's shipyard, watching residents prepare the popular dried fish snacks and sipping tea in the local café.

Incomparable for its dreamy landscapes, the Maldives ranks among the top five places in the world where dolphins and whales can be seen diving into the waves. At sunset, the sky turns pink, creating the perfect romantic atmosphere in the presence of these mystical marine residents. Dolphin cruises are available throughout the Maldives. Ask at the excursion desk of your hotel or resort.