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Tsunami Monument

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Tsunami Monument (Maldives)

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The Tsunami Monument is a significant memorial located in the capital city of Malé, specifically in the Thinadhoo area along the southeast coast. It was erected to honor the lives lost and the destruction caused by the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami on December 26, 2004. The architectural design is highly symbolic, featuring 20 steel spheres that represent the 20 atolls of the Maldives. Vertical iron rods signify the 74 Maldivians who perished during the disaster, with their names inscribed on the monument. This site serves as a somber reminder of the country's vulnerability to natural disasters and a place for reflection. It is frequently used for official memorial services and as an educational landmark for visitors. The surrounding area gives a view of the ocean and the Sinamalé Bridge, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a quiet moment.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272828292928282828282727
Rain mm53375098191148165193185186233184

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Tsunami Monument in Malé is a public outdoor memorial. It is accessible at any time and commemorates the victims of the 2004 flood disaster.
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Typical hours
The monument is freely accessible 24 hours a day with no closing times. Best visited early morning or late evening when it's less busy.
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Photography
Photography is highly encouraged, the monument is a central spot for remembrance photos. Remember to keep the surroundings respectful.
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Time needed
A visit takes only about 10 to 15 minutes. Those wanting to read the inscriptions and pause should allow 20 minutes.
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Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby fish market or Sultan Park in Malé. The Old Friday Mosque is also easily reachable on foot.
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Getting there
The monument is centrally located in Malé, walkable from most hotels. From the international airport, ferries go to Malé.
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Insider tip
Visit the monument at sunset when the light is particularly atmospheric. Combine the short visit with a walk along the coast.

Geography

Coordinates
4.17170, 73.50500

Facts

  • Located in the southeast of Malé, at Boduthakurufaanu Magu.
  • Commemorates the victims of the December 26, 2004, Indian Ocean tsunami.
  • The structure features 20 steel spheres representing the 20 atolls of the Maldives.
  • Vertical iron rods represent the 74 Maldivians who lost their lives in the disaster.
  • The names of the victims are engraved on the monument's stones.
  • The site is a focal point for memorial services held every December 26.

Explore nearby

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Vilimale Coral Restoration SiteVilimale Coral Restoration Site3 km · SExplore →
Embudhoo Express Marine ReserveEmbudhoo Express Marine Reserve3 km · NWExplore →
Kurumba BeachKurumba Beach3 km · NEExplore →
Banana ReefBanana Reef5 km · NEExplore →
GulhiGulhi6 km · WExplore →
HP ReefHP Reef7 km · NEExplore →

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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Sights in the town Tsunami Monument (2)

Tsunami Monument🏺 historical

This memorial features a sculpture of iron spheres representing the atolls affected by the 2004 tsunami.

މަސްޖިދުއް ސުލްޠާނު މުޙައްމަދު ބިން އަބްދުއްﷲ📍 landmark

Named after a Sultan, this mosque in central Malé is notable for its traditional Islamic architectural style.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What does the Tsunami Monument commemorate?
It commemorates the victims of the devastating 2004 tsunami disaster.
Where is it located?
It stands in an exposed location on the coast of Malé.
Is it easily accessible to tourists?
Yes, it can be easily reached during a walk along the waterfront.
What is the best time of day?
At sunset, it has a very atmospheric setting.
Does the visit cost money?
No, it is a public monument and access is free.
Tsunami Monument: where is it located?
Tsunami Monument is located in Maldives.
Tsunami Monument: what is there to see?
Highlights include Tsunami Monument, މަސްޖިދުއް ސުލްޠާނު މުޙައްމަދު ބިން އަބްދުއްﷲ.
Tsunami Monument: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Tsunami Monument: why is it worth visiting?
The Tsunami Monument is a significant memorial located in the capital city of Malé, specifically in the Thinadhoo area along the southeast coast.
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History & landmarks

Maldives National Museum — Tsunami Monument (Maldives)
Maldives National Museum
A museum preserving the rich history of the island nation, featuring royal antiquities and Buddhist artifacts.
Sultan Park — Tsunami Monument (Maldives)
Sultan Park
A lush green park in the heart of Malé, built on the grounds of the former royal palace.
Victory Monument — Tsunami Monument (Maldives)
Victory Monument
A significant monument commemorating the victory over foreign mercenaries during the 1988 coup attempt.
Grand Friday Mosque — Tsunami Monument (Maldives)
Grand Friday Mosque
The city's most prominent architectural landmark, featuring a golden dome that dominates the Malé skyline.
Republic Square (Jumhooree Maidan) — Tsunami Monument (Maldives)
Republic Square (Jumhooree Maidan)
The central square of the capital on the north coast of Malé, known for its giant waving national flag.
Medhu Ziyaaraiy Shrine — Tsunami Monument (Maldives)
Medhu Ziyaaraiy Shrine
The tomb of the Moroccan scholar who introduced Islam to the Maldives in the year 1153.
Muleeaage — Tsunami Monument (Maldives)
Muleeaage
The official residence of the President of the Maldives, known for its colonial architecture in the center of Malé.
Malé Friday Mosque — Tsunami Monument (Maldives)
Malé Friday Mosque
The oldest mosque in the Maldives, built from coral stone with intricate carvings.