The Maldives is a chain of 26 coral atolls southwest of Sri Lanka, extending across the equator in a north-south strip 754km (468mi) long and 118km (73mi) wide. The 1192 low-lying coral islands are so small that dry land makes up less than 4% of the country's total territory. Some islands are uninhabited sandbars with a patch of scrub, while others are several kilometers across and covered in palms and tropical scrub.

The sun, sea, and white coral sand are abundant in the Maldives; and the little tiny islets give a glorious sense of happiness and of being far away from the world and its troubles.

Weather Overview

Maldives weather is generally warm and humid. Sun shines all year through. Average temperature around 29 - 32 degrees Celsius. The best time to go is between November and April. The rainy season is from May to August.

The Maldives have a hot tropical climate. There are two monsoons, the southwest from May to October and the northeast from November to April. Generally the southwest brings more wind and rain in June and July. The temperature rarely falls below 25°C (77°F). The best time to visit is November to April.

History & Culture

Historians believe the Maldives were once Buddhist but now the religion is Islam and all Maldivians are Sunni Muslims.  No other religions are permitted, though ancient beliefs. Foreigners are banned from bringing symbols of other religions into the country, alcohol is prohibited on non-resort islands and modest dress is essential on island tours.

But,Before you panic, swimwear and tropical cocktails are the norm at the resorts. The closest most visitors get to authentic Divehi culture are the cultural shows laid on by resorts, or occasional village tours, which is a shame as the Maldivians are proud of their interesting island customs. 

Fish and rice are the staple foods of Maldivians. National dishes include fried fish, fish curry and fish soup. Arecanut is the equivalent of an after-dinner mint. Alcohol is only available in tourist resorts, and at the airport hotel. The local brew is raa, a sweet and delicious toddy tapped from the crown of the palm trunk. Apart from coconuts, there are very few fruits and vegetables grown on the islands, so most of the food served at tourist resorts is imported.

Facts

Full Name
Republic of Maldives Capital

City
Male

Area
298 sq km 115 sq miles

Population
301,475

Time Zone
GMT/UTC +5 ()

Languages
Divehi (official) Also called Maldivian Divehi. English (other)

Religion
Sunni Muslim

Currency
Rufiyaa (Rf)

Electricity
230V 50 HzHz

Electric Plug Details
Country

Dialing Code
960