Maldives is located in Indian Ocean, near Sri Lanka and India. The country consists of more than 1,000 small coral islands out of which some 200 are inhabited. The white beaches, turquoise lagoons and wonderful dive sites make Maldives one of the top tourist destinations in the world.

The country has a rich history dating back to hundreds of years. It was a main stopover for travelers and traders crossing the Indian Ocean. It had experienced Portuguese rule, numerous invasion attempts by South Indian Malabars but had remained an independent country for most of recorded history. It became a British Protectorate in 1887 and gained independence in 1967.

The Maldivians speak their own language Dhivehi and use their own Thaana script. A unique culture has been formed by the interaction of the settlers who came from different parts of the world. Since 1153 AD the Maldives has remained an Islamic state.


Latitiude: 07°06’30” N to 00°41’48” S
Longitude: 72°32’30” E to 73°45’54” E

Temperature: 30.4° C (Mean Maximum)
                     25.4° C (Mean Minimum)

Timezone: +5 hours GMT

Electricity: 220 – 240 volts

Languages: Dhivehi and English

Entry: A tourist visa of 30 days will be issued on arrival. Visas are not required before arrival for tourists.

Transport: International flights operate to Male’ International Airport while there are four domestic airports serving smaller aircraft used for inter-atoll transport. Seaplanes are operated by two companies, offering airport to resort transfers and charter flights. Traditional boats called dhonis are the most popular mode for water transport while speedboats are also available. Taxis are available in capital Male’ and some other islands though most islands are small enough to be covered in foot within a few minutes.

Climate: The Maldives has monsoon climate and the months of June and July brings rain frequently. Apart from the occasional rain, it’s sunny throughout the year.

Currency: The local currency is Maldivian Rufiyaa. Foreign currency can be converted to Rufiyaa quite easily. Travellers’ cheques and credit cards are also accepted by most establishments.

Customs regulations: Alcoholic beverages, pornographic materials, narcotics, firearms, dogs, idols of worship, live pigs, pork or porcine products, dangerous animals and exobiological material, dangerous chemicals, fog signals and fireworks, spear and dart guns are items prohibited to import.

Telecommunications: All inhabited islands and resorts have basic telephone service, including IDD access. All resorts are covered by the GSM mobile network. Mobile phone coverage is available in a number of inhabited islands. Internet is also available in most islands.

Dress: Nudity is prohibited. Visitors are advised to be modest in clothing when visiting inhabited islands. Beachwear is to be worn only in resort islands. Light cotton and linen is ideal considering the warm climate.

Accommodation: A variety of accommodation is available ranging from resort islands to city hotels, guest houses, and liveaboards.

Food: Local dishes, western and eastern cuisines are also available depending on the place one visits.