The Tomb of Mohammad Thakurufaanu is one of the must-see tourist destinations in the Maldives. It is the final resting place of one of Maldives’ greatest heroes and leaders.
Location and How to Get to This Specific Site
The tomb is in the Bihuroazu Kamanaa Miskiiy compound in Male. It is in the center of the town near the backstreets.
What to See There
The roof and walls are white and evokes a feeling of serenity and tranquility. The place is not elaborate but has a simple elegance fitting for the final resting place of a sultan. Even today, there are still many people who come to the Tomb of Mohammad Thakurufaanu. They pay their respects to the man who fought for and liberated his country.
History
Thakurufaanu is best known as the man who freed Maldives from Portuguese colonial rule. He would then go on to become a sultan from 1573 to 1585. He assumed power after overthrowing Sultan Ali VI. He was not just a great leader. He was also known for his love of the environment. His skills as a military strategist were also
legendary.
Muhammad was the son of Khatheeb (island chief) Husain. He grew up around the time the Portuguese began committing cruel acts against the local inhabitants. To free his people, Thakurufaanu left the Maldives with his brothers Hasan and Ali. They settled in Maliku at India. Together they created the Kalhuoffummi ship.
Every night, the brothers would sail to different parts of the island to kill the Portuguese. They would eventually reach Male and kill the remaining Portuguese. After granting his countrymen independence, Thakurufaanu was anointed Sultan by the people.
Cost
The luggage services at the airport costs $3 a bag a day. Ferries to and from Male depart every 10-15 minutes during the day (US$1). There are also ferries that leave at midnight every half hour ($2).
Other Info
The airport is furnished with an Internet cafe, pharmacy, ATM and a bank. If you are going to the Maldives for the first time, keep in mind that the travel agent reps will be at Customs. From there you will be taken to a plane, speedboat etc. There is also a restaurant, an ice cream shop and free showers (you’ll need to bring a towel though).
If you are going to the Tomb of Mohammad Thakurufaanu, you won’t be able to get to the airport’s air-conditioned area until the check-in’s opening.
