Souvenir Secrets & Island Treasures: Things to Buy in Maldives

The Maldives doesn’t just whisper “luxury” – it hums it softly between the crash of turquoise waves and the rustle of palm leaves. But beyond its dreamy villas and floating breakfasts, there’s another kind of treasure. From spicy souvenirs to coral trinkets (well, replica ones – real coral is a big no-no), the things to buy in Maldives are as diverse and sun-soaked as the islands themselves.

Most travelers hop over those cheap flights to Maldives making it almost too easy. Once you step off that plane and the ocean air hits you, it’s all about markets, colors, and tiny stores filled with stories and the scent of coconut oil.

Let’s list down famous items to buy in Maldives that will make you visit it again and again.

1. The Island Spice Trail
2. Woven Wonders & Handcrafted Joy
3. Beachy Bling & Coral Caution
4. Tropical Threads & Sarong Stories
5. Sweet Bites & Island Flavors
Best Time to Shop (and Visit)
Quick Travel Tips
Closing Note
FAQs- Things to Buy in Maldives
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1. The Island Spice Trail

**Spice Shop**
**Image Credit:** **Frank Eiffert/Unsplash**

The local spice market in Malé – just near the harbor – is tiny but intoxicating. You’ll find mounds of cinnamon, cardamom, curry leaves, and chilli mixes stacked like edible sand dunes. Locals sip black tea while vendors scoop mas mas (Maldivian tuna curry mix) into paper cones.

Spices top the list of things to buy in Maldives, especially for travelers who love bringing home kitchen magic.

Where to Buy:

Malé Local Market
Island Bazaar
Hulhumalé corner shops

Price Range:

Maldivian chilli mix or curry spices – MVR 50–75 (₹270–₹400)

Don’t forget to sort your Maldives visa online early – it’s quick, easy, and saves you from last-minute airport panic

Also Read: Things To Buy In Azerbaijan: Souvenirs That Tell A Story

2. Woven Wonders & Handcrafted Joy

Among the specialty items to purchase in the Maldives, the thundu kunaa mats steal the show. Handwoven by island women either at Gaafaru or Baa Atoll using dried reeds, this centuries-old craft used to adorn sultans’ homes; now, it decorates the living room and travel bags alike.

Where to Buy:

Island Bazaar, Malé
Chaandhanee Magu Souvenir Shops
Local cooperatives on small islands

Price Range:

Thundu kunaa mats – MVR 250–400 (₹1,400–₹2,200)
Lacquered wooden boxes – MVR 150–300 (₹850–₹1,700)

3. Beachy Bling & Coral Caution

Coral jewelry may look tempting, but real coral and tortoiseshell are banned for sale. Happily, you can pick imitation coral pendants, sea-glass earrings, or hand-carved wooden bangles that look just as gorgeous.

These are eco-friendly accessories that epitomize luxury shopping in the Maldives without harming the reefs.

Where to Buy:

The Craft Shop, Malé
Oevaali Art Shop
Local artisan stalls near ferry terminals

Price Range:

Sea-glass or imitation coral jewelry – MVR 100–200 (₹550–₹1,100)

4. Tropical Threads & Sarong Stories

**Sarongs in Market Stall**
**Image Credit:** **Steve Douglas/Unsplash**

Fill your suitcase with breezy sarongs and beachwear, if space allows. Locals may wear them effortlessly, but it takes days for travelers to learn how to tie them right. Perfect for beaches and lazy brunches.

Where to Buy:

Majeedhee Magu Street, Malé
Hulhumalé Beachside Shops
Boutique stores at resorts

Price Range:

Cotton sarongs – MVR 150–250 (₹850–₹1,400)
Beach dresses/tunics – MVR 300–500 (₹1,700–₹2,800)

After a full day of shopping and sunshine, unwind at one of the best hotels in Maldives– perfect for tired feet and happy wallets.

5. Sweet Bites & Island Flavors

The sweet-toothed traveller simply has to try the bondi, a sticky, sweet coconut-and-jaggery snack wrapped in palm leaves – chewy, fragrant and dangerously addictive. Another local hit comes in the form of Maldive fish (dried tuna), an umami ingredient in every Maldivian kitchen.

Both are perfect cheap things to buy in the Maldives and they travel well, too.

Where to Buy:

Malé Fish Market
Hulhumalé Local Stores
Maafushi Island Shops

Price Range:

Coconut bondi rolls – MVR 30–40 (₹160–₹220)
Dried Maldive fish – MVR 150–200 (₹850–₹1,100)

Also Read: 10 Fun Things to Buy in Germany: Pack This, Not That

Best Time to Shop (and Visit)

November to April is the dry season – sunny skies, calm waters, and full shelves at every market. From May to October, the monsoon rolls in with showers and discounts, perfect for bargain hunters.

Want a full shopping adventure? Check out Maldives tour packages – some include guided market tours where you can discover all the famous things to buy in Maldives.

Quick Travel Tips

Bargain politely. Start at 50% of the quoted price, smile, and enjoy the game.
Carry USD or MVR cash. Some stalls don’t accept cards.
Avoid buying real coral, shells, or sand – customs can seize them.
Shop in the morning. It’s cooler and less crowded.
Wrap fragile items in sarongs. They double as packing magic.

Closing Note

Things to buy in the Maldives are not mere objects; they are the whispers of island life. Every woven mat, spice packet, and wooden boat tells a story of sea breeze, sunshine, and smiling locals. Go ahead, shop as if you mean it; stroll around with no hurry, and let your souvenirs bring a bit of paradise back home.

FAQs- Things to Buy in Maldives

What is the best thing to buy in the Maldives?
The best things to buy in the Maldives are local handicrafts such as hand-carved wooden boxes, woven mats also known as Thundu Kunaa, and coconut shell products.

What things are cheap in the Maldives?
Local products like coconuts, tuna, and handmade crafts are relatively cheap.

What is the Maldives famous for?
The Maldives is famous for its stunning white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, luxurious overwater villas, and world-class diving spots.

What should I buy at the Maldives airport duty-free?
At Malé International Airport duty-free, popular purchases include perfumes, cosmetics, chocolates, alcohol, and souvenirs. Since alcohol isn’t available on local islands, many travelers buy it at the airport.

Can ladies wear shorts in the Maldives?
Yes, ladies can wear shorts freely at resorts and private islands.

What is the main product of the Maldives?
The main product of the Maldives is fish, particularly tuna, which is central to the country’s economy.

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Souvenir Secrets & Island Treasures: Things to Buy in Maldives

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. The Island Spice Trail

Also Read: Things To Buy In Azerbaijan: Souvenirs That Tell A Story

2. Woven Wonders & Handcrafted Joy

3. Beachy Bling & Coral Caution

Read More: Things to Buy in Canada That Make Your Friends Jealous

4. Tropical Threads & Sarong Stories

5. Sweet Bites & Island Flavors

Also Read: 10 Fun Things to Buy in Germany: Pack This, Not That

Best Time to Shop (and Visit)

Quick Travel Tips

Closing Note

FAQs- Things to Buy in Maldives

You May Also Like:

Akbar Travels Services

Best Flight Deals

Domestic Flights

International Flights

Best Hotel Deals

Apply Visa Online

International Tour Packages

Domestic Tour Packages

Packages by Themes

3 Comments

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