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Sinamalé Bridge

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Sinamalé Bridge, also known as the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, is a major infrastructure project that connects the islands of Malé, Hulhulé, and Hulhumalé. Inaugurated in August 2018, the 2.1-kilometer-long bridge represented a significant shift in Maldivian transport, providing the first permanent land link between these key islands. The project was primarily funded by a $200 million investment, with a substantial portion provided as a grant and low-interest loan from the Chinese government. Geographically, the bridge crosses the Gaadhoo Koa channel, a deep-water passage that previously required ferry transport. The structure includes separate lanes for cars, motorcycles, and pedestrians, significantly reducing travel time to the international airport. It stands as a symbol of modern development and international cooperation in the archipelago, marking a new era of connectivity for the island nation.

Location: Maldives
Nearby: Gulhi (6 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	28	28	29	29	28	28	28	28	28	27	27
Rain mm	53	37	50	98	191	148	165	193	185	186	233	184

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Sinamalé Bridge can be crossed on foot, by bicycle, or by car; the pedestrian walkway is separately secured. The viewing platforms on the bridge are open to the public.

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Typical hours

The bridge is open 24/7 as it is a major traffic artery. There are no time restrictions for pedestrians and cyclists.

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Photography

Photography from the bridge is unrestricted; sunsets are particularly spectacular. Watch out for passing vehicles.

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Time needed

Crossing on foot takes about 15-20 minutes. If you take photos or enjoy the view, budget 30-45 minutes.

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Combine with

Combine your bridge walk with a visit to the capital Malé, which is directly on the other side. The airport on Hulhulé island is also worth a stop.

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Getting there

From the airport, you can reach the bridge on foot or by taxi. Many hotels in Malé also offer shuttles.

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Insider tip

Visit the bridge in the late afternoon to enjoy sunset over the Indian Ocean. Bring a camera and be prepared for a fresh breeze.

Geography

Coordinates

4.17510, 73.52350

Facts

Officially known as the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge.
It was inaugurated on August 30, 2018, connecting Malé and Hulhulé.
The total length of the bridge is approximately 2.1 kilometers.
The project cost an estimated $200 million, largely funded by China.
It is the first inter-island bridge in the Maldives, facilitating land transport.
The bridge features two lanes for four-wheeled vehicles and separate lanes for motorcycles.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Artificial Beach (Malé)<1 km · SExplore →

Kurumba Beach2 km · EExplore →

Tsunami Monument2 km · SExplore →

Embudhoo Express Marine Reserve3 km · WExplore →

Banana Reef3 km · NEExplore →

Vilimale Coral Restoration Site5 km · SExplore →

HP Reef6 km · NEExplore →

Gulhi6 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Sinamalé Bridge (1)

Velaanaa International Airport Monument 🏺 historical

A distinctive monument located near the airport entrance celebrating national aviation progress.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you walk across the Sinamalé Bridge?

Yes, there is a pedestrian walkway connecting Malé to Hulhulé island.

When is the best time of day for photos?

At sunset, the bridge is beautifully illuminated above the ocean.

Is the bridge lit up at night?

Yes, it is equipped with modern LED systems.

How long does the crossing take?

Walking takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

Is the bridge wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the sidewalks are wide and stepless.

Sinamalé Bridge: where is it located?

Sinamalé Bridge is located in Maldives.

Sinamalé Bridge: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.

Sinamalé Bridge: why is it worth visiting?

The Sinamalé Bridge, also known as the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, is a major infrastructure project that connects the islands of Malé, Hulhulé, and Hulhumalé.

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