Geographical position and Climate of Maldives
The Maldives is an archipelago situated in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. It lies between latitudes 1°S and 8°N, and longitudes 72° and 74°E. The country consists of 26 atolls, which are made up of over 1,000 coral islands, grouped in a double chain stretching approximately 750 km from north to south.
The Maldives has a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season (northeast monsoon) and the wet season (southwest monsoon).
- Dry Season (Northeast Monsoon): Occurs from November to April and is characterized by lower humidity, less rainfall, and clear skies. This is considered the best time to visit the Maldives for beach holidays and water activities.
- Wet Season (Southwest Monsoon): Runs from May to October, bringing higher humidity, stronger winds, and more frequent rain showers, with the heaviest rains typically occurring in June and July. Despite the rain, the temperatures remain warm, and the seas are still suitable for swimming.
Overall, the Maldives enjoys a warm and tropical climate year-round, with average daily temperatures ranging from about 23°C (73°F) to 31°C (88°F). The constant sea breezes help to moderate the heat, making the climate quite pleasant despite its proximity to the Equator.
Brief History of Maldives
The Maldives has a rich and diverse history that dates back to around the 5th century BCE, with early settlers likely from South India and Sri Lanka. According to legend, the first kingdom was established by an exiled Indian prince. Over the centuries, the islands have been influenced by various cultures due to their strategic maritime location along ancient trade routes, resulting in a mix of African, Arab, and Southeast Asian influences.
Islam was introduced in the 12th century and remains the state religion. The Maldives was a sultanate for most of its history, interspersed with periods of Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial influence. In 1965, the Maldives gained independence from British protection, and three years later, in 1968, it became a republic. The country has since developed rapidly, with tourism becoming a significant economic driver alongside fishing. Despite political turmoil and challenges such as rising sea levels due to climate change, the Maldives continues to be known for its idyllic beaches and vibrant marine life.
Religion of Maldives
The Maldives is a predominantly Islamic country, and Islam is the state religion. The constitution of the Maldives designates Sunni Islam as the official state religion, and the government adheres to a conservative interpretation of Islamic law. The practice of Islam is intertwined with the daily life and culture of the Maldivian people, and it influences the country’s laws, education system, and customs.
All citizens are required to be Muslims, and the practice of other religions is not allowed in the country. Religious practices are regulated by the government, and there are strict laws in place that prohibit the public observance of other faiths. Mosques are found on every island, and Islamic festivals and prayers are an integral part of community life in the Maldives.
Language of Maldives
The official language of the Maldives is Dhivehi (also spelled Divehi). It is an Indo-Aryan language predominantly spoken by the Maldivian people. Dhivehi has its own script called Thaana, which is written from right to left. The language has been influenced by various languages over the centuries, including Arabic, French, Persian, Portuguese, and Sanskrit, due to historical maritime trade and colonialism.
Dhivehi is used in all aspects of daily life, as well as in administration and education. While Dhivehi is the mother tongue for the majority of the population, English is also widely spoken, especially in the business sector and the tourism industry. English is taught as a compulsory second language in schools, and many Maldivians are bilingual.
Places to visit in Maldives
- Malé
- Addu Atoll
- Maafushi Island
- Ari Atoll
- Baa Atoll
- Vaavu Atoll
- Rangali Island
- Nalaguraidhoo Island
- Meeru Island
- Baros Island
- Kuredu Island
- Dhigurah Island
- Thulusdhoo Island
- Fuvahmulah
- Utheemu
Before you visit Maldives
Travel to Maldives
Travelers can reach the Maldives primarily by air and, less commonly, by sea. Here are the common ways to get to the Maldives:
By Air
- International Flights: The main gateway to the Maldives is Velana International Airport (MLE), located on Hulhulé Island near the capital city of Malé. Numerous airlines operate direct or connecting flights from major cities around the world to Malé.
- Domestic Flights: From Malé, domestic flights can take you to other local airports closer to specific atolls and resorts.
- Seaplane Transfers: Many luxury resorts offer seaplane transfers directly from Velana International Airport to the resort island.
By Sea
- Private Yachts: Some travelers opt to sail to the Maldives on private yachts. However, this requires careful planning and adherence to maritime routes and regulations.
- Cruise Ships: While less common, some cruise lines include the Maldives in their itineraries, usually as part of a larger Indian Ocean cruise.
Upon arrival in the Maldives, further transportation to individual islands or resorts is typically arranged by speedboat or seaplane, depending on the distance and the services offered by the accommodation provider.
It’s important to check visa requirements before traveling; however, the Maldives offers a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival for all nationalities, which can be extended if necessary. Always ensure to check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements before making travel arrangements.
Visas for Maldives
The Maldives offers a very tourist-friendly visa policy. Here are the key points regarding visas for the Maldives:
Tourist Visa on Arrival
- Eligibility: All nationalities are eligible for a free tourist visa upon arrival in the Maldives.
- Duration: The visa is valid for 30 days from the date of arrival.
- Extension: It is possible to apply for an extension of the tourist visa for up to 90 days, inclusive of the initial 30 days. To do so, you must apply before the expiry of the original visa to the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Malé.
Requirements for Tourist Visa on Arrival
- Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
- Return Ticket: Proof of a return ticket or onward journey for the duration of the stay.
- Accommodation Confirmation: Booking details of your resort, hotel, or guesthouse, or an invitation from a Maldivian host.
- Sufficient Funds: Travelers must have enough funds to cover their stay in the Maldives, typically around USD 50 per day.
Other Types of Visas
For stays longer than 90 days or for purposes other than tourism (such as work or study), you will need to apply for the appropriate visa type in advance through the Maldives’ embassies or consulates, or as advised by the Department of Immigration and Emigration.
It’s important to note that regulations can change, so travelers should always check the latest information from the official Maldives immigration website or consult the nearest Maldives embassy or consulate before planning their trip.
Best time to visit Maldives
The best time to visit the Maldives is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this period, the weather is characterized by blue skies, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for beach activities, water sports, and clear skies for sunbathing.
Dry Season (November to April)
- Peak Tourist Season: December to March coincides with the peak tourist season when the islands see the highest number of visitors due to the excellent weather conditions.
- Optimal Conditions for Diving and Snorkeling: Visibility underwater is at its best during these months, offering great opportunities for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Wet Season (May to October)
- Monsoon Period: The southwest monsoon brings more rain and overcast skies, particularly from June to August, but temperatures remain warm.
- Advantages: Despite being the wet season, there are still plenty of sunny spells between the showers. Resorts often offer lower rates during this period, and the islands are less crowded.
- Surfing Season: The wet season also brings larger swells, making it a good time for surfing, especially from June to September.
While the dry season offers the quintessential sunny Maldivian experience, the wet season can still be an enjoyable time to visit, especially for those looking for better deals and fewer tourists. It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast and consider what you want to do in the Maldives when planning your trip.
Important Information
Capital – Malé
Territory – 298 km2
Currency – Maldivian rufiyaa
Time Zone – UTC+5 (MVT)
Population – 515,132
Demonym – Maldivian