The longest electric go-karting circuit in all of Maldives was inaugurated in Kandima Maldives in November, 2024
The longest electric go-karting circuit in all of Maldives takes me by surprise. It is located in Kandima, a three-kilometre resort island destination in Dhaalu Atoll, typically seen as a destination for couples.
On the day of the inauguration, I take a direct flight from Bengaluru to Dhaalu Atoll via Manta Air, which was launched this year. This is followed by a short bus and boat ride to the resort. The inauguration of the resort’s karting circuit had the larger purpose of attracting more tourists, especially Indian tourists, whose numbers have admittedly plummeted since the diplomatic relationship between Maldives and India soured early in 2024.
Spanning 500 metres along the oceanfront, it is claimed to be the longest and fastest in the region
Need for speed
Launched on November 15, Fast Track is Maldives’ first-ever professional-grade electric go-kart circuit. Spanning 500 metres along the oceanfront, it claims to be the longest and fastest in the region, boasting speeds of up to 80 kilometre per hour, amid breath taking views of the Indian Ocean.
The other highlights include the eco-friendly karts with adjustable speed settings for juniors, families, and competitive racers, being offered between ₹2,740 to ₹2,905 for a 10-minute session, with packages available for families and groups. My trial run was expectedly cautious, but smooth.
The new circuit
As far as the mainstays of the quintessential Maldivian holidays go, Kandima has 270 studios and villas, offering a choice of beach studios, beach villas, aqua villas, and ocean pool villas. The rates range from ₹33,292 for a night for the Studios, and Beach Villas from ₹48,618 per night on a full-board basis. The villas I stay in is beautifully designed, opening on one side to an open concept bathroom, and on the other to a private pool overseeing the ocean.
Kandima has 270 studios and villas, offering a choice of beach studios, beach villas, aqua villas, and ocean pool villas
The island-resort also boasts of 10 dining options, ranging from cafes, beach style bars, all day dining to fine-dining restaurants, including Smoked with BBQ specialties, Sea Dragon for Asian cuisine, Azure for Mediterranean dining and the Beach Club. We try them during our stay, and the food for most part is good to very good. My favourites are the Sea Dragon and Smoked.
The professional-grade electric go-kart circuit
During my stay at the resort, I also try my hand at everything — from a guided art class at the Kula Art Studio by the picture-perfect lakefront, to a dolphin-spotting expedition, which turns out to be worth the test of patience.
And what sort of a holiday would it be in the Maldives if you do not try out a water sport or two? The water sports centre Aquaholics at Kandima has a range of aquatic activities such as snorkelling, diving, sea bob, windsurfing and parasailing. Cycling around the stretch of the island was fun.
The full experience also includes a visit to the esKape Spa, which, again, is set against scenic ocean views and is a rejuvenating experience. There are two gift shops on the island where you can buy interesting knick-knacks, although it is not cheap.
An aerial view of the circuit
What I did miss was the opportunity to dive into the ordinary Maldives — roam the streets and shop and eat where the locals do. All we got to see was a glimpse of Dhaalu around the airport. But overall, Kandima was all that those who love the Maldives say: a luxurious seaside holiday and an escape from the everyday.
The writer was in Maldives on the invitation of Kandima Maldives.
Published – January 10, 2025 04:01 pm IST
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