Maldives

Tropical Paradise is how Maldives is referred to as more often than not. Maldives, one of the best offerings of nature, is situated south of Lakshadweep Islands of India and South West of Sri Lanka. The island nation of Maldives is divided into 26 atolls which consists of more than 1100 small islets. Only about 250 of these islands are inhabited. Maldives is in the record books for being the lowest country in the world with an average altitude of only 1.5 m above sea level. Surrounded by blue lagoons and coral reefs, Maldives has steadily grown as tourism destination.

 

Tourism has become the biggest income generator for Maldives in the recent past. This industry was opened in Maldives only in the year 1972. There were only two resort at that time which now have increased to over 80 resorts welcoming tourists from around the world. So what is so special about Maldives that attracts so many tourists aagin and again? The answer is, everything; everything from the breathtaking palm fringed beaches to the cleanest of air. The extraordinary natural beauty of this island nation is what brings you here again and again, but it is the range of activities that you can do that will keep you here for long periods. Almost all the tourists to Maldives indulge in watersports like snorkeling, scuba diving, or swimming. Many consider Maldives among the best destination for diving in the world for its underwater beauty and warm, rejuvenating waters.

 

What most people do not prepare themselves for in Maldives is the colorful culture of people here. First inhabitants of Maldives are believed to be from South India and Sri Lanka. One can still see the cultural resemblance between these countries. The cuisine, music, dances, all add an extra zing to your vacations in Maldives.

 

Malé is the capital city of Maldives and is situated on the southern side of Maldives. Located on Malé Atoll it is the largest city in terms of population in the country.

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Fast Facts

Location – Asia

Capital – Malé

Population – 350,000

Language – Maldivian Dhivehi, English

Religion- Sunni Muslim

Calling Code - +960

Time Zone – UTC +5

Climate – Tropical climate

Currency – Maldivian Rufiyaa

Best Time to Visit – November To May

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Highlights

 

Addu Atoll

Addu Atoll is a heart shaped island which is situated on the southernmost island of Maldives. It is one of the major administrative centers of the country and has lot of facilities that are not found on other islands. The Equator Village Resort lets you cycle to three nearby islands via a causeway and spend some quality time as the islands are not too crowded and the beauty unscathed. The culture in Addu too is totally different from the people in rest of the country; even the language is different. Being a British base in the past, one can see few colonial style buildings on this atoll.

 

Grand Friday Mosque - Male

Standing distinct from all the natural attractions of Maldives, it is one of the very few architectural gems in this island nation. It is the largest mosque in Maldives which was build by Sultan Ibrahim Iskandhar in the year 1656. Grand Friday Mosque can accommodate upto 5000 people at a time. The Golden dome of the mosque is its biggest attraction that can be seen from a distance as well. The coral engravings on the minarets and walls of the mosque is wonderful to look at. Situated in the center of Male, it is easily accessible from all parts of the city.

 

National Museum - Male

The building in which the National museum is housed was once a royal palace, so you will be able to see a unique grandeur that you normally don't associate with museums but with palaces. The museum was thrown open to public in the year 1952 and was inaugurated by the then prime minister of the country, Meer Mohamed Amin Didi. The main objective of opening the museum was to preserve the rich history of Maldives, and after exploring the museum, one agrees that the job has been well done. The display includes dresses worn by kings and queens, paper and cloth manuscripts, weaponry and anthropological objects.

 

Mulee Aage Palace - Male

Built in the year 1906 by Sultan Mohamed Shamsuddeen III, the palace still shines in the same old glory of its earliest years, and that too without any heavy renovations. After the king was overthrown, the palace was declared as a government property and after independence, this shimmering white palace became the official residence of the President. Today, it is used as the office of President.

 

Coral Wilds of Maldives

In Maldives, you are never far away from a cluster of exceptionally beautiful coral reefs. They are spread all around the 1100 islands that constitute Maldives. Just dive into the shallow lagoon and swim alongside colorful school of fishes, and equally multicolored coral reefs. Marine life in the Maldives waters is probably one of the most pacifying sights you would ever wish to see. One can also catch a glimpse of the Whale Shark which are commonly spotted here.

There is something in store for people who are interested in birdwatching as well. Great variety of oceanic birds can be seen here, Frigatebirds is one migratory bird that nest here in large numbers.. Birds like Grey Heron and Moorhen are seen in marshy lands inside the islands.

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Things To Do in Maldives

 

Breath Snorkeling

Your visit is incomplete till the time you have not experienced snorkeling in the tranquil waters of Maldives. Almost all inhabited islands of Maldives have facilities for snorkeling. Many of the resorts, apart from the facilities , have a guide who will provide you basic knowledge about snorkeling that will help you enjoy every moment of your adventure stint. The waters here are so clear that in some part the visibility is as good as 60 m.

 

Scuba Diving Into The Water Kingdom

Maldives by most, is considered to be among the best destinations for diving in the world. When you see the lagoons that surround the islands of Maldives, you too will know exactly why such a conclusion is reached. The breathtaking shallow lagoons are brimming with different kinds of coral reefs and schools of multicolored fishes. Dive in, to explore the underwater world full of caves and corals that will enchant you to no limits. There are many diving schools scattered in all parts of the country. They are equipped with all the required apparatus and have a professional tutor as well. Many resorts also provide you with underwater camera so that you could capture every moment of your pulsating experience. Baa Atoll, Roo Atoll and Vaavu Atoll are the best spots for diving in Maldives.

 

Sail To The Unknown

Go sailing into the deep seas by hiring a yacht or a small boat. There are many operators who offer boats of sizes from which you can choose according to your requirement. The crew accompanying will be well acquainted with the waters and climate. The best time of the day to go on sailing is in the evening. Views of sun setting on the horizon from middle of the sea, leaving behind skies of different colors, is among the most romantic moments. And if you are the lucky one, you might just see dolphins break the calmness of water surface and leaping out, may be to get a clearer view of you.

 

Fishing In The Deep Seas

Fishing is one of the largest industries in Maldives and offers a lot of scope for tourists as well. There might not be lot of opportunities for angling inside the island but sea fishing compensates more than enough for it. Sail into the sea with a local fisherman who will take you too a spot where the fish will be plenty. Just put in the bait and in all probability, before long, you will get your prize. You can get here fishes of all sizes and colors. Skipjack Tune and yellowfin Tuna are the most common.

  Last Updated on Monday, 04 January 2010 11:31