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An island nation harboring supreme natural beauty, Maldives is an expanse blessed with the splendors of white sandy beaches, blue pacifying waters, and green luxuriant vegetation. It is the heartland of charm and an epitome of exquisiteness. With over 1192 islands to its name, Maldives cultivates happiness all around. It makes for an ideal destination for beach lovers, honeymooners, nature photographers, families and for every single individual who loves to treasure nature. Plan a trip and discover the world of spotlessness. Take a stroll along pristine shores and rejuvenate your soul. Witness the magnificence of the sun and capture the colorful sky. Marvel at water villas and spend days in absolute leisure. Indulge in water sports and explore the waters of the Indian Ocean.

USEFUL INFO. ABOUT MALDIVES

OFFICIAL NAME: Republic of Maldives

FORM OF GOVERNMENT: Presidential Republic

CAPITAL & LARGEST CITY: Male

POPULATION: 535,901 (as on January 2020))

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE(S): Dhivehi or Maldivian

LANGUAGES SPOKEN: Dhivehi/Maldivian, English, Arabic

CURRENCY: Maldivian Rufiyaa.Þ (MVR)

CLIMATE: highland continental, hot summers, cold winters

MAP REFERRED: (South Asia)

AREA: 298 Sq Km

LAND: 298 Sq Km

LOWEST POINT: Indian Ocean 0 M

HIGHEST POINT: Vilingili Island in the Addu Atoll 2.4 M

COASTLINE: 1,129 Km

NEIGHBOURING PLACES:

Chagos Islands 550 Km

India 595 Km

Sri Lanka 670 Km

Network / Connectivity

The internet and mobile services are available at most of the inhabited islands of the Maldives. If you are staying at a resort or a hotel, then you need not worry about the internet. Most of the commercial properties here provide free Wi-Fi to their guests. Capture your favorite places, take trendy selfies, come back to your hotel and upload them.

However, if you are looking forward to using internet services while exploring around, it is advisable to buy a local SIM card. You can purchase it at the airport upon arrival. These SIM cards can be recharged with data plans and have a validity of two weeks. They can be bought for a price of about $10.

Dhiraagu and Ooredoo are the mobile operators of the Maldives and offer great coverage across the major places in the country. Hence, you can easily make national and international calls while roaming around. You can also use the telephone provided by your hotel or resort to make calls.

However, it is wise to use web-based services for making international calls. When you are already paying for the internet, why pay extra to make calls? If you are planning to visit some sparsely populated or uninhabited regions, then be prepared to disconnect from the digital world. The remote areas of the Maldives don't have good internet or mobile connectivity.

The Rufiyaa is the currency of the Maldives at present. However, other forms of currency were used back in the day. Cowry shells, which can still be found on the beaches of the Maldives, is the oldest-known form of currency that was used in the country. Pure silver coins, gold coins, and bronze coins have also been used in the past.

The name Rufiyaa is derived from Rupya, a Sanskrit word which literally stands for wrought silver. As the Maldives is a popular tourist destination and people come to the east as well as the west to relish its beauty, US dollars are accepted in most of the places in the country.

Symbol: MRf, Rf (Other symbols for the currency include /-)

Code: MVR .

The Maldives is known for its pristine beaches, water villas, luxury resorts, and laid-back surroundings. It has emerged as a major tourist center for honeymooners and beach lovers in recent years. However, the archipelago was a lot more than just nature's abode back in the day. The Maldives has a long history of its people and development. As per local legends, the country was inhabited by Dheyvis thousands of years ago. Age-old chronicles of Sri Lanka and India speak of it as the Garland of Islands.

However, it was during the rule of the Great Ashoka when the country started witnessing development. It was the time when the Maldives became a breeding ground for the Buddhist culture. During this period, the islands rose to prominence and the kings started promoting Buddhism. It eventually resulted in the development of architecture.

No wonder, most of the oldest sites and ancient artifacts found on these islands belong to the Buddhist culture.

The Maldives remained dominated by Buddhism until the 12th century when the Arab traders started making their way through the Indian Ocean and reached the archipelago. The then king of Maldives changed his religion and converted into Islam by adopting the title of Sultan Mohammed. Hence, the Islamic Period came into prominence.

Later on, the country was ruled by the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British before getting full political independence in the year 1965. It became a republic in 1968. Since then, the Maldives has been serving as a land of blue fresh lagoons and white amazing beaches.

With the formation of resorts and luxury hotels and the development of markets, the islands have been transformed into proper tourist centers. Today, millions of tourists flock to this picturesque land every year to savor its majestic panoramas.

Plan a trip now to get lost in its magnificence. Embark on a journey to discover its wonders and dig deep into its history. Fulfill your beach fantasies and create eternal memories.

Located in the Indian Ocean, Maldives is the lowest-lying country in the world and is surrounded by turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea. It is spread across more than 1192 coral islands that form about 26 atolls together. The archipelago has an average elevation of about 1.5 m above the sea level and hence, is generally referred to as the flattest country in the world.

The highest point and the lowest point in the Maldives are at 2.4 m (Villingili Island of Addu Atoll) and 0 m (Indian Ocean) respectively. As the country is located near the equator, the sunrays here strike with maximum intensity, thereby, making summers quite hot.

The Maldives is also recognized for its prolific vegetation in the form of coconut trees and breadfruit groves. The white sandy beaches that form the beauteous environment of the country are coralline in nature.

Being an ocean-locked nation, the nearest country to its boundaries is more than 500 km. Chagos Islands, India, and Sri Lanka are the major places within 1000 km one can explore from the Maldives.

The wildlife of the Maldives is unique and colorful as it comprises mostly aquatic animals and plants. Apart from coral reefs, one can witness numerous species of sea turtle, fish, whales, mollusks and echinoderms. The region is also home to several species of amphipod, crab and shrimp.

The culture of the Maldives is unique in a lot of ways. Though the first-ever community to settle in the country came from India, the Maldives has a 100% Muslim population today. This happened in the late 12th century when the then king of the Maldives converted into Islam. That's the reason the culture here is not based on a single culture. It has derived its values from a number of cultures.

You would find influences from Arab, Sri Lanka, India, and Africa. The women in the country do not veil and use their husband's name after the marriage. Hence, it could be said that the Maldives doesn't hold grounds on the values of a patriarchal society, but a mix of matriarchal and patriarchal society.

Art and Music
The art and craft of the Maldives are heavily influenced by the geographical conditions of the country. That's the reason you would find fish drawings in its handcrafted items. The Maldives relates its music and dance to the northern territories of India due to its strong affiliation to the country. Here, you would come across people interested in watching Hindi films and listening to Hindi songs. However, bulbul tarang is claimed to be their favorite musical instrument.

Food and drink
As the fishing industry is large in the Maldives, the cuisine of the country is greatly influenced by seafood. Fish is one of the major dishes in the country. Other foods include rice and a few vegetables. As the country isn't home to a vast expanse of farming land, most of the vegetables and spices are imported from nearby countries, such as India and Sri Lanka.

Being a Muslim country, alcohol is prohibited within the boundaries of the Maldives. However, people indulge in consuming Bogauru, a locally-produced drink. People also love drinking Sai (tea) and other beverages.

Friendly locals
TMaldivians are quite friendly and the country is known for its great hospitality. That's why the Maldives is generally referred to as one of the safest countries to travel to in the world. Here, people are polite and welcome each and every visitor with a smile. They are generous and helpful too.

Must-try delicacies
Fihunu mas, garudhiya, bis keemiya, saagu bondibai, reef fish cutlet, masroshi and Maldivian vegetable curry.

Must-try drinks
Sai, Raa, Bogaru, Maldivian Lady, Biyadhoo special

Experience the best of holidays amid sea, sun, and shore

Get to stay at lavishly-built water villas and island resorts

Sail off on a luxury cruise in the waters of the Arabian Sea

Dive in to witness the most beautiful coral reefs

Unravel the mysteries of the Maldives Glowing Beach

Take peaceful walks along unpolluted and uncrowded shores

Get a chance to relish flavorsome dishes

Get adventurous and try your hand at thrilling water sports

Behold the grandeur of architectural heritages

Enjoy revitalizing spa therapy and breathe new life into your body and mind

Romance your partner at some of the prettiest places on Earth

Experiment with your photography skills and capture heavenly frames

Be a part of history and step into the yesteryears of the Maldives at its museum

Spend your time fishing and sunbathing by turquoise waters

As the Maldives is the lowest-lying country in the world with 1.5 m as average elevation, the temperature stats remain constant across all the 1200 islands for most of the time in a year. The average high temperature and the average low temperature fluctuate between 30Â°C and 25Â°C respectively throughout the year. That's the reason, this island nation is classified as a year-round destination. Hence, it is always found on the bucket list of travelers across the globe. As the country has a tropical monsoon climate, it is dominated by dry season as well as the rainy season.

The months of January, February, March, April, and May are the driest. The period between June and August receives rainfall characterized by strong winds and storms.

December to May
For a perfect beach holiday, visit the Maldives between December and May. It is the best time as the climatic conditions are favorable and hence, ideal for tourists to roam around and explore places comfortably.

June To August
This is the time when the cities, towns, and villages across the Maldives receive rainfall followed by winds and storms. Most of the tourists do not prefer visiting the country during this period. However, it remains a vibrant place for explorers and budget travelers.

It is because hotels and resorts offer great deals during these months. One can roam around and enjoy places without encountering the tourist crowd.
Do not forget to carry an umbrella if you are visiting the Maldives in between June and August.

Visit Maldives with Family

Picnic on the sandy shores of the Arabian Sea

Take a submarine tour and explore the marine life

Shop for handicrafts at local markets

Enjoy sport fishing

Visit Maldives with Partner

Go on a luxury cruise or stay at a water villa

Visit the Maldives glowing beach together

Go for underwater dining

Soothe your senses with a romantic spa therapy

Visit Maldives with Friends

Host a pool party at an island resort

Dive in the Indian Ocean and watch beautiful corals

Explore architectural heritage sites

Enjoy kayaking, jet-skiing, and other adventurous activities

Visit Maldives with Kids

Snorkel in crystal clear waters

Watch spinner dolphins

Collect tiny hermit crabs

Visit Kids' Club and let your kids play fun-filled games

What to Buy?

Handmade traditional mats called Thundu Kunaa

Lacquer products, such as vases, plates, and boxes

Beauty products made from virgin coconut oil

Locally-designed shoes, bags and more

Statues and lampshades made from coconut trees

Feyli, a traditional Maldivian dress

Canned fish products

Dhonis, i.e., miniature sailboats

Grand Friday Mosque
The picturesque Grand Friday Mosque, also known as Islamic Centre, should be on the top of your list while visiting the Maldives. As the mosque is located in the capital city of Male at a distance of just 5 km from the airport, it can be the first stop upon your arrival. Constructed in the year 1984, it is the largest mosque in the country and serves as an important architectural landmark. The golden dome that dominates the skyline of Maldives along with its splendidly designed interior makes the mosque a man-made wonder. Come here, spend a few hours in seclusion, indulge in studying Arabic calligraphy and scrutinize incredible woodcarvings.

Timings: 09:00 pm to 05:00 pm
Avoid visiting the mosque during the prayer hours unless you are keen to worship the god.
Entry Fee: No Entrance Fee

Hulhumale
One of the largest islands in the Maldives, Hulhumale is an amazing family destination. As most of the islands in the country are private resorts and can be accessed only if you book your stay there, it is wise and economical to go with Hulhumale. The island hosts great hotels and the beaches here are equally awe-inspiring. Most importantly, you wouldn't need to book a resort to visit them. From lazing by the shores to enjoying water sports adventures such as Jet-skiing, you can do everything. Also, do not forget to visit the Mosque of Hulhumale. It is noted for its brilliantly shining golden dome.

Timings: Anytime
Entry Fee: No Entrance Fee

Glowing Beach
Visit the Vaadhoo Island of the Maldives to witness magic with your naked eyes. Bathe in a sea full of stars and discover the rare natural phenomenon of Bioluminescence. At night, when the sun hides in the sky and the stars conquer the space, the shores of the Vaadhoo Island become a different world altogether. It is the time when the phytoplankton, marine microorganisms, glows and converts crystal-clear sea waters into glimmering sea waves. Today, the beach is quite popular amongst travelers from across the globe. If you are up being in a fantasy world, then do not forget to add this wonderful place to your Maldives itinerary.

Timings: Anytime
Entrance Fee: No Entrance Fee

Banana Reef
If exploring underwater life is your interest, then you cannot miss out on diving into the Banana Reef of the Maldives. As the name suggests - the structure of the reef resembles a banana. It is one of the most popular places to visit in the Maldives and also, one of the first diving sites to be discovered in the country.
Tourists go crazy about its magnificence and the kind of marine life it nurtures. You can take a speed boat to reach the site. Explore marvelous corals, impressive overhangs, stunning cliffs and a whole lot of underwater beauties. You can also catch a glimpse of sharks and other fishes here.

Timings: Anytime
However, the best time to visit the Banana Reef is from 09:00 am to 1:00 pm. If you are interested in night diving, then you can ask your operator to organize one for you.
Average Price: $150

Majeedhee Magu
Shopping isn't a popular activity in the Maldives. But once you have stepped into the cobblestone streets of Majeedhee Magu, the shopper in you would come out restlessly. Eyes wouldn't keep calm and legs would guide you across streets adorned with colorful items. Majeedhee Magu is the ultimate place for shopping for traditional clothes, handicrafts and other local artworks. You can spend hours here and you wouldn't know the time. That's the beauty of this bustling market. So, come here, buy your interests and shop for souvenirs. It is located in Male at a distance of about 4 km from the Maldives international airport.

Timings
08:00 am to 11:00 pm
02:00 pm to 11:00 pm (On Fridays)
If you are looking forward to avoiding the crowd, then visit the market soon after it opens or an hour before it closes. Entrance Fee: No Entrance Fee
The sharper the bargaining skills, the better your deals are.

Biyadhoo Island
A private island housing one of the most beautiful resorts in the Maldives, Biyadhoo Island is a perfect retreat for beach lovers and honeymooners. Delivering a great variety of natural beauty and offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, this stunning island has everything that can make your vacation a memory to cherish. Diving, snorkeling, beach exploration - there is a lot you can enjoy here. The resort provides all the modern amenities to its guests. So, book your stay now, enjoy premium services and make your holidays peaceful, rejuvenating and romantic.

Timings: Anytime
Entrance Fee: You would need to book a stay to visit it.
The price ranges between $300 and $700 per person. You can take a speed boat from the Maldives airport to reach the island. It would take a maximum time of 40 minutes.

Artificial Beach
If you are looking for a place where you can just chill lying in the warm waters of the Arabian Sea watching the beautiful horizon, then the Artificial Beach must be your destination. As the name suggests, the beach is artificial and was formed after the reclamation of land from the sea. The water is shallow here and hence, makes a great place for swimming. You can bring your kids along and have a great time with them. Put your feet in the water and feel your soul detoxified. You can also indulge in culinary exploration in the nearby restaurants and cafes.

Timings: Anytime
Entrance Fee: No Entrance Fee

National Museum
History isn't the thing tourists come to the Maldives for. But for those who survive on ancient trails, the National Museum of the Maldives is a paradise. Founded in the year 1952, the museum displays an incredible collection of ancient artifacts. Learn about the lessons of Maldives history. Take a look at age-old relics and phenomenal artworks. Trace the development of the city from the Buddhist period to the era of Islamic monarchs. If history is all you need to make your holidays worth remembering, then you cannot afford to miss out on this beauty while in the Maldives.

Timings
10:00 am to 04:00 pm (Closed on Fridays)
Entrance Fee: $6.5 for adults and $1.3 for kids

Utheemu
Savor a perfect blend of nature and history at Utheemu. Enclosed within crystal clear waters, Utheemu is an inhabited island of the Maldives and makes for a great place for history buffs as well as nature lovers. It has pristine shores, ancient sites, religious places and bustling settlement. That's the reason it can be frequented by tourists of all kinds. However, the prime attraction here is the beautiful Utheemu Ganduvaru Palace. It is the birthplace of Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu, the national hero of the Maldives who saved the country from Portuguese conquerors. Hence, a must-visit historical spot!

Timings: Anytime
Entrance Fee: No Entrance Fee

Sun Island
Another private island that looks nothing less than heaven! Sun Island is a popular resort in the Maldives. Get an experience of a lifetime as you stay in wonderfully designed rooms. Relish lush tropical gardens and stroll along stainless beaches. Dine-in style and enjoy diving, snorkeling, sailing, fishing and a lot of other water sports. In short, there is a small world awaiting you on this picturesque island. Set off on an adventure and watch dolphins showing their skills. The place is quite peaceful and hence, makes for an amazing destination for families as well as couples and of course, beach lovers.

Timings: Anytime (If you have your stay booked on the island)
Entrance Fee
The price per night at Sun Island ranges between $350 and $800.

Other Popular Places to Visit...

Maafushi
Veligandu Island
Tsunami Monument
Alimatha Island
Presidential Palace
Maldive Victory
Dhigu Island
Hp Reef

Maldives National Day
Also known as Qaumee Dhuvas, Maldives National Day observes the day when Sultan Muhammed Thakurufaanu along with his small army drove off the Portuguese from the country and ended their 15-year rule. The day is celebrated with great zeal and zest across the cities and towns of the Maldives. The streets witness parades and marches during the daytime. Dazzling fireworks dominate the sky. People wish each other and come out in the open to join flag-waving ceremonies and to listen to political speeches. Everyone drenches in patriotism on this National Day.

Location: Throughout the Country
Time: Maldives National Day is celebrated in the third month of the Islamic Calendar. In 2020, this day will be observed on 17th and 18th October

Prophet's Birthday
If you happen to be in the Maldives in the last week of October this year, do not miss celebrating Prophet's birthday with locals. This is the day when the founder of Islam, Prophet Muhammad was born. On this occasion, mosques across the country get adorned with fascinating lights. Streets appear dipped in beautiful colors. The carnival brings limitless happiness to the island nation as people are seen exchanging traditional sweets and dishes with each other. Visit the country during this day of observance and grab the opportunity to learn in detail about Islamic culture and values.

Location: Throughout the country
Time
The festival is celebrated in the third month of the Islamic calendar. In 2020, it will fall on the 28th and 29th of October.

Independence Day
Independence Day is one of the most prominent national celebrations in the Maldives. It marks the anniversary of independence as on 26th July 1965, the country was released from the rule of the British. Since then, the people of the Maldives have been celebrating the day every year with great pomp and show. Dancing and singing shows, marches and parades are organized in the streets of the country. The Republican Square at Male becomes the center stage and witnesses incredible performances by Maldivians riding high on happiness. People party throughout the day.

Location: Throughout the country
Time: 26th July

Ramadan | July
Being a Muslim country, Ramadan is one of the most important festivals in the Maldives. It is the ninth month of the Islamic Calendar and is observed with fasting and prayers. People fast throughout the day and relish luscious delicacies in the evenings. The restaurants across the country introduce cultural meals. People also donate food, money, and clothes to poor and charitable organizations. If you desire to witness the Maldives in its full glory, then visit it during the Ramadan period. Feast on traditional dishes and try delicious Ramadan drinks. Watch the entire country in its celebratory spirit.

Location: Throughout the country
Time: In 2020, Ramadan will be celebrated from 23rd of April to 23rd of May

Republic Day
Commemorating the day when the nation became a republic, Maldives Republic Day is a national holiday and is celebrated with patriotic shows, marches, and parades across the cities and towns of the country. Official events are held and hundreds of people participate in them. Like National Day and Independence Day, this day too means a lot for Maldivians. It is because, on 11th November 1968, the country ended its monarchy form of government and established a republican government. Since then, a new president is elected on this day. Visit the island on Republic Day to enjoy its liveliness.

Location: Throughout the country
Time: 11 November

Eid
The Maldives has a 100% Muslim population and that's the reason, Eid is the most famous and happening festival in the country. The day marks the end of Ramadan and is considered as the most auspicious day of the year. On this occasion, the entire Maldives witnesses an enthusiastic environment. Streets twinkle with utmost passion. People partake in prayers, attend cultural events, enjoy local gatherings and feast on delicious meals. Visit the country during this time of great rejoicing and festivity and get an insight into Islamic traditions and customs.

It gives an insight into the traditions and customs of Islam.
Location: Throughout the country
Time: In 2020, Eid will be celebrated from 23rd May to 24th May.

The Maldives is a perfect destination for a sun-kissed vacation. Whether you are with your family or your better half, the incredible beauty of this island nation would compel you to visit it again and again. But what are the visa requirements to enter its premises? Well, below given is all the information you would need to know regarding the Maldives Visa.

Tourist Visa
Quite clear from the name itself, this kind of visa is for those who want to visit the Maldives as tourists. And to your surprise, you don't need any pre-arrival visa to enter the boundaries of the Maldives. A 30-day tourist visa is issued upon arrival to all the nationalities across the world. You wouldn't need to pay anything to get it. However, there are certain conditions you are supposed to meet. You must have:

A valid passport that doesn't expire within 6 months from the date of your travel

A two-way ticket to fly in and out of the Maldives

Adequate funds in your account for the expenses during your stay in the country

A booking at a hotel or a resort

If by any chance, you do not meet the above-given requirements, you would be denied the visa.

You can apply for the Maldives visa-on-arrival either online or upon reaching the Male Airport. You just need to fill out an application form and there you go!

You are good to explore the charm of the country.

You can also renew the tourist visa for an extra period of 60 days by paying a minimal fee of $48.50. All you have got to do is fill the visa extension application form at the head office.

Notes To Remember

If the required documents are found to be illegal, you would be refused entry to the Maldives

If you are found working on a tourist visa, you would be deported straightaway

If you participate in any unlawful activity, you would be sent back to your country

You need to have at least 2 blank pages in your passport book

No tourist can bring a dog in the country

If you are bringing your pet (Other than dogs), then you need to have a valid veterinary certificate

For a hassle-free vacation, smooth transportation is necessary. As the Maldives is an archipelago and is spread across different islands, you need to avail ferry or boat services for commutation. Let's look at the major means of transport in the Maldives.

Taxi
As most of the islands in the Maldives are very small and can be explored by walking, taxi services are available only on large islands like Male and Addu. Take a comfortable ride with them and escape the humid atmosphere of the Maldives. It is convenient and hence, one of the best ways to explore big cities in the country. It would cost you a maximum price of $3 per ride.

Bus
Like taxis, bus services are also available only on large islands like Male and Addu. People prefer it to travel within an island as it is one of the cheapest means of transport. A ride would cost you about $1. However, it is not advisable to take a bus if you are traveling with heavy baggage.

Dhoni
A handcrafted small sailboat, Dhoni is one of the oldest means of transportation in the Maldives. It has been in use for ages and is still preferred by many tourists for its cultural significance. A Dhoni can be hired for a day in the price range of $60 and $100. It is perfect for visiting islands and for spending a day in the warm waters of the Arabian Sea.

Speedboat
Just like its name, a speed boat is fast and hence, perfect to commute in between the islands of the Maldives. If you are traveling with a huge luggage and do not desire to board a public ferry, we would suggest you hire a speedboat.
Though it can cost you up to $250 depending upon the location of your resort, it is worth every penny. Not only would you be able to save a lot of time, but also gain once-in-a-lifetime experience of cruising in the Arabian Sea on a private boat.

Seaplane
Seaplane would cost you a lot in comparison to all other modes of transport. But it is the perfect way to escape the bustling traffic of cities like Male and reach your resort within minimum time. Most of the island resorts in the Maldives provide seaplane for pick-up and drop off services. Flying high in the air and then landing on turquoise waters right in front of your resort is something every tourist would want to experience. A seaplane ride would cost you in the range of $250 - $400.

Cycle
There are no cycle rental services in the Maldives. However, on private resort islands, you can avail of them. Most of the resorts in the Maldives provide cycle services to its guests to let them explore the island comfortably. You can also ask for a guided cycling tour if available.

Maldives is a famous beach destination worldwide. Tourists, especially couples and beach addicts, come from across the globe to savor its serene setting. But how would one get to this wondrous archipelago? Well, following given are the routes you can take to reach it:

Via Rail Route/Road Route
As the Maldives is located in the Arabian Sea of the Indian Ocean, it cannot be accessed by rail/road routes. You can only reach this island nation via air or via a cruise ship.

Via Air Route
The Maldives has 4 international airports and out of which, Velana International Airport at Male, the capital city of the country, is the most significant and busiest gateway. It is well connected to all the major South and East Asian Countries, such as India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Thailand, Bangladesh, and China. You can also take a direct flight from Dubai, Europe and Singapore to reach it.

Via Water Route
You can also book a cruise journey to reach the Maldives. However, it is not so practical time or money-wise. Hence, it is not advisable.

The Maldives experiences two seasons: dry and wet. If you want to explore the best of the country, then visit it during the dry season which lasts from December to May.

Book your hotels and flights online to get seasonal discounts on your trips.

Carry a raincoat and an umbrella if you are visiting the Maldives between June and August. During this period, the country receives rainfall.

The Maldives is a dry country and that's why you should not carry alcohol while visiting it. Most resorts offer unlimited alcohol and spirits within their premises. Check with them before booking.

Keep hard cash with you as local shops don't accept cards.

US dollars are accepted at all major resorts, hotels, and shops.

Do not stay at a single pace throughout your vacation. Keep changing your hotel or resort. It is the best way to explore the beauty of the Maldives.

The Maldives experiences a tropical climate. Hence, do not forget to bring sunscreen to protect your skin.

A 7-day trip to the Maldives is enough to enjoy its beauty and charm to the fullest.

Purchase a local SIM card at the airport only if you need one. A majority of places in Maldives have Free Wi-Fi access.

Do not litter anywhere.

Do not try to export sand or corals. It is strictly prohibited.

The Maldives is quite safe. So, you need not worry about roaming around at night.

Never expect your seaplane to come on time.

Book your stay in advance during the peak season to get the best of deals.

Buying souvenirs in the Maldives can be an expensive affair.

A week in the Maldives starts from Sunday. Yes! Sundays are working days here.

Though Dhivehi is the official language of the country, locals have a good understanding of English.

It is always better to take permission from a local before photographing him/her.

SAFETY TIPS

Do not visit uninhabited islands without a guide.

Keep your wallet and important items safely. Though the crime rate is low in the Maldives, small thefts keep happening.

Do not try to touch corals or any marine creature. It could be harmful.

Keep your valuables in the hotel or resort. Do not carry them while exploring the Maldives.

Always wear fins while swimming in the sea when the waves are strong.

Do not dive deep into the water without a guide.

Make sure to rinse your ears thoroughly after snorkeling to avoid ear infections.

Always wear a whistle with you while indulging in water activities so that you can attract the attention of your companion in difficulties (if any).

HEALTH

Drink water as much as you can to remain hydrated.

Keep yourself away from drinking tap water. It is prepared from the desalination process and hence, might not contain required minerals.

Save yourself from mosquito bites as Dengue fever and Chikungunya can be a problem on several islands.

Take proper medication in case of cuts and stings from corals. They can be toxic and hence, hazardous to health.

Before flying to the Maldives, make sure you have proper travel insurance that can cover all your medical bills in case of emergencies.

What to Pack?

Swimwear and summer dresses

Sunscreen and Sun hat

Underwater Camera

Flip flops and sandals

First aid kit

Headscarves

Dry and wet bags

Insect Repellent

Travel tickets and documents

Plug adaptors and chargers

Passport / Visa / Tickets

Power Bank

DRESS CODE & ETIQUETTE

Avoid wearing revealing clothes in public, i.e., outside your resort. As the Maldives is a Muslim country, you need to take care of what you are wearing. Choose conservative clothing when you are planning to visit public places outside your resort.

Do not indulge in eating in public during the day in Ramadan. On this occasion, Muslims fast throughout the day and hence, you won't find any local relishing meals before sunset.

Nudity or topless sunbathing is strictly against the Islamic faith. So, do not indulge in such activities unless it is a private beach. Check with your operator once.

Keep yourself away from physical intimacy while in public unless you desire to get looks from locals. Public display of affection in the Maldives is highly frowned upon.

Chagos Islands (550 km)
Nurturing a vast expanse in the Indian Ocean, Chagos Islands forms an archipelago of about 60 tropical islands. Even though these serene unexplored islands look nothing less than a paradise, the tourism is restricted here. It is because the islands belong to the British Indian Ocean Territory. Hence, they can only be visited after taking advance permission from the administration. From beautiful corals to white sandy shores, there is a lot to admire and savor at Chagos Islands.

India (595 km)
One of the most visited tourist places in the world, India is a perfect blend of nature, history and culture. Across the globe, the country is recognized for its diversity and is loved for its history. Here, you would come across ancient corridors, tranquil trails and rich cultural sites. Visit it and savor the best of beauties. Also, relish some lip-smacking traditional dishes and indulge in learning age-old traditions and customs.

Sri Lanka (670 km)
A beautiful island country in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka has a history that is more than 3000 years old. However, the country is equally popular for its magnificent natural wonders in the form of sky-high mountains, dense forests, beautiful beaches, luxuriant plains and colorful gardens. It is also one of the few places where the Buddhist culture flourished centuries ago. Hence, there is a lot to witness, to scrutinize and to acknowledge within the boundaries of Sri Lanka.

Distance Between Places of Importance in and Around Armenia

Maldives to Seychelles: 2154 Km

Male Airport to Male Town: 5 Km

Male Airport to Artificial Beach: 4 Km

Male to Addu City: 535 Km

Male to Bioluminescent Beach: 195 Km

Male to Banana Reef: 27 Km

Male to Maafushi: 265 Km

Male to Utheemu: 297 Km

Note: All figures are approximate

The Maldives is the lowest-lying country in the world with an average elevation of about 1.5 m.

The country houses more than 1190 islands, of which only about 200 are inhabited.

The Maldives is a dry country and hence, alcohol is strictly banned. However, the resorts with a valid license can provide alcohol to its guests.

The sun rays strike at a 90-degree angle as the country is located in the proximity of the equator.

Unless you are a Muslim, you cannot become a citizen of the Maldives. That's why the country has a 100% Muslim population.

The Maldives is the smallest country in South Asia with an expanse of about 300 Sq Km.

The country has weekends on Fridays and Saturdays and hence, the Sundays are working days here.

The Maldives is claimed to be one of the safest places to travel in the world.

Most of the dhoni captains still use old-world techniques to sail through the ocean. Instead of a compass, they use stars to guide themselves through the atolls of the Maldives.

The country has more than 80 resort islands. Hence, it makes for one of the preferred honeymoon destinations in the world.

Whale Shark, the biggest fish in the world, can be found in the waters of the Maldives.

Unlike other white sandy beaches that are made up of quartz, the white beaches in the Maldives are formed from corals.

As the islands are continuously sinking for being at lesser heights, it is said the island nation will be submerged by 2030 if strict measures are not taken.

The highest natural point in the Maldives is at 5.1 m, which makes it one of the lowest points in the world.

The Maldives is the first country in the world to host a cabinet meeting underwater. It was done to showcase the effects of climate change.

The first-ever community to settle in the Maldives came from India. Hence, India is strongly related to the culture and demography of the Maldives.

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