Rhiannon Hendricks
The Maldives is a dream honeymoon destination, with its white-sand beaches, sparkling turquoise waters, and world-class resorts. But what if you want to extend the trip and explore more of the world after your time in this tropical paradise? Due to its location, the Maldives pairs well with several other destinations, such as the nearby island of Sri Lanka, with its lush forests, ancient ruins, and cultural experiences. Another option is Oman, a relatively small country that offers a mix of dramatic scenery, warm hospitality, and adventure activities in its rugged mountains and vast deserts. For those seeking a longer journey, India is a great choice, with direct flights to major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and the exotic southern state of Kerala. Alternatively, a stopover in Dubai can add some glitz and cultural exploration before you hit the beaches of the Maldives.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nearest destinations | Sri Lanka, India, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Mauritius |
| Nearest destination features | Ancient ruins, lakeside cities, capital cities, cultural experiences, nature, beaches, coral reefs, waterfalls, volcanic craters, lush forests, desert |
| Far destinations | South Africa |
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What You'll Learn
- Sri Lanka: Explore ancient ruins, local culture, and capital Colombo
- India: Experience the Golden Triangle, cities of Rajasthan, and Kerala
- Oman: Immerse in old eastern culture, dramatic scenery, and world-class diving
- Dubai: Enjoy gold-dipped glitz, decadent hotels, and shopping malls
- Mauritius: Discover natural landscapes, beaches, and waterfalls
Sri Lanka: Explore ancient ruins, local culture, and capital Colombo
If you're looking for a mix of ancient ruins, local culture, and a bustling city, Sri Lanka is a great option after your Maldives honeymoon. Here's a guide to help you explore the best of this vibrant country.
Ancient Ruins
Start your journey by immersing yourself in the ancient ruins of Sri Lanka, which are scattered across the country. In Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, you'll find well-preserved vatadageya structures from the ancient kingdoms. These ruins, built by King Parakramabahu I, once boasted seven floors and a thousand rooms, and the remains of three levels still offer a glimpse into the past.
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, venture to the Kurunegala Rock at the heart of Kurunegala city. Climb the rock or take the road to the summit, where you'll find a Buddha statue and breathtaking views of the city, lake, and surrounding mountains. At the bottom of the rock lie the ancient ruins of the Kingdom of Kurunegala, including a hidden place next to the Isurumuniya Temple.
Another must-visit site is the ancient Buddhist monastery, about 15 km from Ibbagamuwa. The architecture is sure to leave you in awe, and you can also observe the "Medical Boat/Canoe" and medicine grinding spots, which offer a glimpse into traditional medical practices.
Local Culture
Sri Lankan culture is a fascinating blend of modern and traditional elements, with strong regional diversity. The country has a rich artistic heritage, encompassing music, dance, and the visual arts, often inspired by its long history of Buddhism. Explore the vibrant cities, lush hills, and tropical beaches, each offering a unique cultural experience.
Sri Lanka is also known for its delicious cuisine, indigenous holistic medicine, and religious iconography such as the Buddhist flag. The country has a longstanding connection with India, and you'll find many South Indian cultural influences, particularly in the northernmost regions. Don't miss the opportunity to sample the local tea, cinnamon, and gemstones, which are famous exports.
Colombo, the Commercial Capital
Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, is a vibrant city that blends modern life with colonial-era buildings and monuments. Located on the island's west coast, it offers a mix of bustling markets, historical sites, and natural landmarks. Stroll along the Beira Lake, one of the city's most distinctive features, or explore the canals that crisscross the city. Visit the historic sites, including the Fort built by the Portuguese in 1517, and learn about the city's rich colonial history, shaped by Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Colombo is easily accessible and serves as a great base for exploring the rest of the country.
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India: Experience the Golden Triangle, cities of Rajasthan, and Kerala
India is a great choice for a multi-centre holiday after your honeymoon in the Maldives. Experience the Golden Triangle, the cities of Rajasthan, and Kerala for a varied and captivating trip.
The Golden Triangle
The Golden Triangle is a popular route for first-time visitors to India, offering a taste of three distinct parts of the country. The three cities are Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan. Delhi is a chaotic, bustling city, full of crumbling buildings, street vendors, and breathtaking temples and monuments. It is a unique and immersive cultural experience. Agra, in Uttar Pradesh, is known for its religious landmarks and pilgrimages, and of course, the iconic Taj Mahal. Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is graceful and elegant, with its buildings painted the same shade of pink, set along wide streets in a grid. There is also the impressive City Palace, the royal residence built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II.
Rajasthan
After Jaipur, you can continue to explore more of the fascinating state of Rajasthan. The city of Jodhpur is a popular next stop, as well as Udaipur, known for its lakes. Jaisalmer is another option, where you can experience camel treks and desert camping. Other recommended places to visit in Rajasthan include Bundi, Pushkar, and Varanasi.
Kerala
Kerala, in southern India, is a beautiful state known for its natural riches. The jungle-clad hill country is dotted with rice paddies, coconut palms, and banana plantations. It is a region of India that is intriguing and well worth exploring.
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Oman: Immerse in old eastern culture, dramatic scenery, and world-class diving
Oman is an ideal destination for honeymooners seeking to immerse themselves in old Eastern culture, dramatic scenery, and world-class diving. With its diverse landscapes, rich history, and cultural treasures, Oman offers a unique and authentic experience.
For nature lovers, Oman's dramatic mountain landscapes, such as the Hajar and Dhofar ranges, provide a striking contrast to the vast sand dunes and turquoise coastlines. The country's highest peak, Jabal Shams, rises to 3,009 meters and is known for its rugged limestone landscape and deep gorges, including the famous Wadi Ghul, dubbed the "Grand Canyon of Arabia." The Hajar Mountains, the highest points in eastern Arabia, are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the Arabian tahr, leopard, hyena, fox, wolf, and various bird species.
Oman's coastline, spanning over 309,500 square kilometers, boasts pristine beaches, majestic dunes such as the Wahiba Sands, and fjord-like bays in Musandam, often referred to as the "Norway of Arabia." The coastal areas also offer world-class diving opportunities, with over 40 dive sites in Muscat alone. The Daymaniyat Islands, protected by UNESCO, provide a rare chance to swim with whale sharks, while the waters off the coast of Salalah and Mirbat offer the opportunity to dive among wrecks, kelp forests, and a diverse range of marine life, including dolphins, sharks, octopus, turtles, and even humpback whales.
Beyond its natural wonders, Oman is steeped in ancient history and culture. The Recent Pre-Islamic Period in northern Oman dates back to the 3rd century BCE, and archaeological sites throughout the country, such as Bat, Al-Janah, and Al-Ayn, reveal preserved artifacts from the Bronze Age and beyond. The country's oases and wadis, vital water sources in the arid desert landscape, have shaped life in Oman for centuries and are deeply rooted in local folklore and traditions. Ancient cities like Nizwa and centuries-old forts bear testament to Oman's rich heritage.
For those seeking luxurious accommodations, Oman offers exclusive resorts that showcase the country's natural beauty, such as the Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar, nestled high in the mountains, or the Desert Nights Camp in the vast Wahiba Sands. With its blend of dramatic scenery, cultural immersion, and world-class diving, Oman is an ideal destination for a honeymoon filled with adventure, relaxation, and exploration.
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Dubai: Enjoy gold-dipped glitz, decadent hotels, and shopping malls
Dubai is a great choice for a stopover on your way to or from the Maldives, offering a contrast of gold-dipped glitz, decadent hotels, and shopping malls.
Known as the City of Gold, Dubai is a global powerhouse for gold trading, with its own vaults, refineries, gold-making facilities, and hundreds of gold jewellers. The Dubai Gold Souk, or Deira Gold Souk, is the largest gold market in the world, with a labyrinth of alleys to explore. For those who prefer the air-conditioned comfort of exclusive boutiques, the high-end malls also offer an array of gold jewellery options. Dubai's Gold and Diamond Park is a shopping mall dedicated solely to jewellery shopping, with a peaceful atmosphere away from the busier souk. The Dubai Mall, the largest mall in the world, also features a precinct called The Souk, which specialises in jewellery. Here, you can find high-end jewellery brands such as Cartier, Piaget, Swarovski, and Tiffany & Co, as well as international brands from Italy, Turkey, and the Arab world.
If you're looking for decadent accommodation, the Burj Al Arab is often referred to as the world's only seven-star hotel and claims to be the "World's Most Luxurious Hotel". With luxurious duplex suites, guest amenities include 24-carat gold iPads, private butlers, a helipad, four pools, and airport transfers in a Rolls Royce or helicopter. The Skyview Bar at the Burj Al Arab also offers a costly cocktail called "Diamonds are Forever", made with vintage champagne and cognac, served in a Swarovski cocktail glass with a diamond-filled stem that you get to keep.
Dubai also offers a range of other attractions, including the Mall of the Emirates, which features Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort with five runs and a winter wonderland complete with live penguins and ice sculptures. The city is also known for its man-made beaches and plans to develop underwater attractions, such as the Water Discus Hotel, which will feature an underwater dive centre and bar. For those seeking a more cultural experience, a trip further into the country reveals mud-house villages, offering a contrast to the soaring buildings of the city.
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Mauritius: Discover natural landscapes, beaches, and waterfalls
Mauritius, a volcanic island in the Indian Ocean, is a paradise of stunning natural landscapes, pristine beaches, and breathtaking waterfalls. Here, you can discover a diverse range of natural wonders and unique experiences.
For nature lovers, Mauritius offers a unique biodiversity. The island boasts dramatic waterfalls nestled within lush green forests, such as the Tamarind Falls, a series of seven falls perfect for a refreshing dip or a natural massage under the water pressure. The Black River Gorges National Park is a must-visit, with its 16,680 acres of unspoiled nature, home to endangered species, magnificent views of forests, rivers, and waterfalls, including the stunning Alexandra Falls. Don't miss the beautiful lake within the dormant volcanic crater of Trou aux Cerfs, with its thick vegetation and a diameter of 350 meters.
The island's beaches are equally impressive. Flic en Flac beach stands out for its stretch of white sand and abundant marine life. It's also home to "The Cathedral," a popular dive site with a captivating cavern and cave system. Grand Bay offers over a dozen sites for beginner divers to explore beautiful coral reefs, while Le Morne is ideal for experienced divers with its St Jacques drift dive, taking you from shallow lagoon to open water. The UNESCO site of Le Morne is famous for its "underwater waterfall," a unique illusion caused by currents sweeping sands into the depths.
Beyond the beaches, Mauritius offers a range of outdoor activities. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the trails around Tamarind Falls, taking in the spectacular views of Le Morne Mountain. The island also has smaller surrounding islands, such as Ile aux Cerfs, a calm lagoon ideal for snorkeling, and Ile aux Aigrettes, a nature reserve with unique wildlife. For a cultural experience, visit Grand Bassin, a crater lake and prominent Hindu pilgrimage site with sacred water from the River Ganges.
With its year-round hot and humid climate, crystal-clear waters, and stunning natural landscapes, Mauritius is the perfect destination to relax and explore after your Maldives honeymoon.
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Frequently asked questions
If you're looking for a change of scenery after your time in the Maldives, nearby India offers a range of tour opportunities, from the classic Golden Triangle (Agra, Jaipur, and Delhi) to the cities of Rajasthan and exotic Kerala in the south. You can also visit the painted temples of Tamil Nadu and the natural riches of Karnataka, where jungle-clad hill country is dotted with rice paddies, coconut palms, and banana plantations.
Mauritius, another jewel of the Indian Ocean, is a great alternative to the Maldives. It boasts stunning natural landscapes, including sandy beaches, coral reefs, waterfalls, volcanic craters, and lush forests. You can explore tropical gardens, visit waterfalls, and enjoy the island's natural beauty.
Yes, the relatively small country of Oman is a perfect place to visit during your multi-centre holiday in the Maldives. You can easily explore the capital, Muscat, and experience the luxury encampments in the desert. For a more cultural experience, venture further into the country to discover mud-house villages, dramatic scenery, forts, oases, magnificent deserts, and rugged mountain ranges.
