At the heart of the Utheemu island which is one of the many inhabited islands located in Haa Alif Atoll Maldives, lies a magnificent palace which was once the home of the sultans of Utheemu Dynasty. Read on to know more about this wondrous palace and about Sultan Mohammed Taurufaanu.

Overview

Utheemu Ganduvaru is the name of the palace where the royal lineage of the Utheemu dynasty lived for centuries. The palace boasts a stunning wooden interior that includes swinging bed; an indigenous method used to keep you cool in the heat. The palace is certainly one of the oldest and well preserved old buildings in the Maldives.

Sultan Mohammed Takurufaanu

The palace of Utheemu Ganduvaru was the birthplace of Sultan Mohammed Takurufaanu; one of the first leaders of the Maldives who fought against the Portuguese. Even though the Portuguese captured the Maldives despite his efforts, Sultan Mohammed Takurufaanu is still remembered as one of the first and the bravest freedom fighters of the nation

The palace today

The palace has been converted into a museum since the Maldives gained independence. Upon visiting the palace you can witness a myriad of antiquities and appreciate ancient woodwork. Above all other experiences, visitors get to walk along a palace which was once the home of a royal family and visiting here will certainly be an experience worth your while.

Getting there

You can reach by a seaplane or by a speedboat if you are stationed in a Maldives accommodation the likes of The Residence Maldives by Cenizaro which is located close to the Utheemu Island.

Damon Starky is a creative nomadic travel writer, who is well informed and experienced on a wide range of interests that would connect to the needs of any type of traveler. Google+