Maldives

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Maldives is a dazzling archipelago of thousand plus islands in the Indian Ocean, that is so beautiful that it feels as if a wizard has sprinkled magical white dust on a picture-perfect painting and made it come alive. Maldives is known for its bright white sandy beaches (remnants of the wizard’s magic dust perhaps), glimmering blue water that submerges pretty corals, and bright sunny skies.

The Republic of Maldives is the smallest country of Asia but one of the most popular tourist destinations. There are about 200 islands that are habitable and one thing is for sure, wherever your eyes go the beauty follows. So let’s jump ahead and look at the famous destinations and best things to do while in Maldives!

Maldives at a Glance

Time: GMT + 5

Capital:: Malé

No. of Islands:: 1,190 grouped into 26 natural atolls

Inhabited Islands: : 200

Resorts: : Over 132

Population(2018): 5.16 lakhs

Major Industries: Petroleum Industry, Construction, Tourism

Currency: Rufiyaa

Electricity Voltage: 230V (type D and G sockets)

Important Information


Weather & Climate

Maldives has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year round and a great deal of sunshine. Due to the warm tropical climate, there are only minor variations in daily temperature throughout the year.

The weather is determined largely by the monsoons- the Southwest monsoon from May to November and the Northeast monsoon from December to April, which are the driest months. April is generally the hottest month while December is the coolest. As Maldives lies in the equatorial belt severe storms are rare occurrence.

The best time to visit the Maldives is between November and April as these are dry months with hardly any rain and very low humidity. The climate is warm and tropical, the temperature goes up to maximum of 29°C to 31°C and falls rarely below 24°C.

In Maldives it is warm throughout the year so wearing clothing of light cotton and linen materials is ideal. Remember to pack lots of t-shirts, beachwear, cotton shirts, shorts or other clothing items that are comfortable.

Most of the habitable islands have streets that are of compact sand or are paved like in Malé (the capital of Maldives), so wearing sandals are preferable. Also don’t forget to carry other essential items like hats/caps, sunglasses, swimwear and especially sunscreen. It may also be better to carry reef-safe sunscreens as there thousands of coral reefs colonies in Maldives. If you are planning to travel to many islands, then carrying a mosquito repellent is also advisable.

The import of firearms, drugs, pornographic materials and idols of worship are strictly prohibited. The import of dogs, pigs and pork products by tourists is also prohibited. Alcohol imported through a special license is available in all the resorts. Similarly pork products are available at most of the resorts as well. If passengers bring in any prohibited products, they are confiscated upon arrival. For the complete list of restricted & prohibited items please refer the guidelines by Maldives Customs Service.

Tourists are issued a maximum of 30-day tourist visa on arrival. A valid travel document is necessary and the validity of the passport must be at least 6 months before the expiry date. Visa extensions are granted by the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Malé.

Visa / Entry Permit is subject to change and depends on the Government policy. Our team will provide you with the exact details on your query about this important & crucial aspect of your travel.

For all visitors arriving from infected countries an international certificate of immunization against yellow fever and cholera is required.

For greeting

Assalaam Alaikum - This time-honored Maldivian greeting is used to greet a guest or even a friend; it denotes the Islamic culture of the people and comes with a fervent for peace. For centuries Maldives’ shores have been a haven of peace and tranquility for travelers.

  • Dress modestly when visiting any inhabited islands and non-resort island like Malé.
  • For men, wearing shorts and a shirt are acceptable. Women are expected to cover their bodies and thighs.
  • While swimming in resorts or hotels, swimming trunks, bikinis and any other swimwear are acceptable. However skimpy clothing is not acceptable on the inhabited islands and common areas.
  • Also remember that nudism in public places is prohibited.
  • Traditionally Maldivians eat with their hands and if you wish to follow the local tradition, use your right hand as it is considered unhygienic to touch food with the left hand. If in doubt use a spoon.
  • Be conscious of the delicate natural environment. Do not touch or pick the corals when diving or snorkeling.