Standing on the Indian Ocean, Maldives is an impressive tropical destination. This island is known for its clear blue waters, luxurious resorts and picturesque beaches. It will not be an overstatement if I say that this island has become a dream destination for tourists worldwide. This island country can satiate you regardless of whether you are looking for an adventure trip, a family vacation or a romantic getaway.
Read on to learn more about Maldives. I am here to share everything you should know about this destination before you plan your trip:
Maldives – An Introduction
Maldives is a group of islands that encompasses 26 coral atolls. These coral atolls encompass more than 1000 separate islands. These islands are popular for their crystal-clear lagoons and overwater bungalows. If you are looking for a tourist destination to unwind in paradise, you can confidently choose Maldives. This place is not just about luxury and leisure. Rather, it offers a lot of opportunities to participate in thrilling water activities. You can dive in some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world and you can discover the local culture of Maldives.
Read my post on “Our Experience in Visiting Maldives“.
Population and Currency of Maldives
Before you visit Maldives, you should have local Maldives currency. Only then, you can spend your vacation on this island with ease. The official currency of this island is Maldivian Rufiyaa or MVR. However, as US tourists visit in large numbers, US Dollars are accepted by major tourist areas and resorts in Maldives. The Maldives population is around 540000. Most people live in the capital city Malé.
History & Relation with India
In this Maldives guide, I would like you to know the history of the island as well. You can also understand how this island is related to India:
The history of the island is varied and rich and dates back thousands of years. The history of this island is diverse because influencers from Sound Asia, the Middle East and Africa visited these islands. Due to the influences of Islamic leaders, the island converted to Islam in the 12th century. Now, it is widely an Islamic island country. Its history is also deeply connected to the larger geopolitics of South Asia particularly its association with India.
India-Maldives Relationship
Maldives and India have historically shared a cooperative and close relationship. India holds the pride of being the first few nations to recognize the island after it gained independence from the British in 1965. Recent Maldives news shows that it has developed a deep relationship with India in different areas like cultural exchanges, trade and security.
Even though the relationship between India and the island is smooth now, there were instances of tension as well. Yes, there were disputes over regional influences. In Maldives, there was an India Out campaign by some political parties within the island. However, through continued cooperation and diplomacy between these two countries, the India-Maldives row has been resolved. The Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu was invited and he visited India during Sri. Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony for the third consecutive time.
How to Reach Maldives?
Are you wondering how to reach Maldives? The easy option available is to choose a Maldives Package. You can find trip organizers taking tourists from popular Indian cities. They will leave you back to the same city after exploring Maldives for a few days based on the package you choose. If you wish to go by yourself, here is how to reach the island.
By Air
If you wish to choose air transport to Maldives from India, you can book flight tickets from major Indian cities like Kochi, Mumbai and Delhi. Based on the layover time, it will take around 7 to 11 hours to reach the Male Airport in the capital city of Maldives. This airport shortly called MLE is the main point of entry not only for domestic flights but also for international flights. The island also has another international airport in Addu City called Gan Airport.
The island also has domestic airports at Kadhdhoo, Kaadedhdhoo and Hanimaadhoo. Different airlines like Jet Airways, Etihad Airways, Emirates, Cathay Pacific, Air India and British Airways operate flights to Maldives from India and across the world.
- From Bangalore, you can find direct flights to Velana International Airport in Male. The flight duration will be two hours.
- From Mumbai, you can take direct flights to Maldives, which will take around two hours and 30 minutes. From Mumbai, you can book flights with IndiGo, GoAir and Air India.
- From Delhi, the flight time takes around 4 hours. Popular airlines like IndiGo, Vistara and Air India operate direct flights to Maldives.
Key Attractions and Things to Do
Maldives is popular for its luxurious offerings and natural beauty. Here are some top activities and attractions to enjoy when you are on this island:
Banana Reef
Banana Reef is one of the key attractions to visit in Maldives you should not miss out on visiting. This attraction is ornated with attractive caves, majestic cliffs, attractive coral reefs and powerful overhangs. This reef holds the pride of being one of the most ancient reefs on this island. It is populated by sharks, barracudas and groupers and propels divers from across the world. The excellent visibility and calm currents work ideal both for seasoned divers and beginners.
Grand Friday Mosque
If you are looking for a religious place to visit in Maldives, you can visit Grand Friday Mosque. This mosque attracts not only spiritual seekers and architectural lovers. This mosque was established in 1984. It is a crucial part of the Islamic Center and is named after Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu-Al-Auzam.
The Grand Friday Mosque is large enough to accommodate nearly 5000 devotees at a time. This makes it the biggest mosque in Maldives. The whole shrine is made of pure white marble. It has a huge golden dome that rests on the top of the main square. The exterior and interior walls of the mosque are beautified with intricate designs and wooden cravings. They exhibit Arabic Calligraphy.
Tsunami Monument
This monument in Male has 20 steel spheres that represent the atolls of Maldives and pillars that denote tsunami waves. Most South Indians cannot forget the 2004 tsunami. Maldives also faced this tsunami and the island lost 74 of its citizens. This monument lying in Southeast Male stands as a freestanding pillar and it is dedicated to the 74 lives.
For history enthusiasts, it is one of the hopeful places to visit in Maldives. It has a brilliant architecture. The 20 steel spheres of the monument denote the nation’s 20 atolls. The raised pillars denote the fierce tsunami waves/ When the rods of the pillar pay tribute to those, who have lost their lives, the edifice of the structure showcases their names.
Take Part in Island Hopping
Remember that each island in Maldives carries its unique charm. So, when you are thinking about the things to do in Maldives, you can participate in island-hopping tours. With island hopping trips, you can understand local culture. You can visit traditional villages in Maldives and visit unexplored beaches on the island.
Engage in dolphin-watching
Based on the resort you choose to stay on the island, you can participate in dolphin-watching excursions. Some resorts arrange for these excursions. With these tours, you can spot playful dolphins in their original habitat. Also, during these trips, you can enjoy a boat ride at sunset.
Water Sport Participation
Do you love water sports? If so, the island offers a range of water sports. Examples of water sports you can find on these islands include kayaking, windsurfing, parasailing and jet skiing.
Visit Male
The capital city of Maldives is Male. It is a small yet vibrant city. Important attractions in Male include the bustling fish market, the Maldives National Museum and the 17th-century Old Friday Mosque.
Snorkelling and Diving
This island is home to some of the popular pure coral reefs. So, it is a haven for scuba diving and snorkelling enthusiasts. Popular diving spots on the island include Maldives Victory Shipwreck, Maaya Thila and Banana Reef.
Other Attractions and Activities in Maldives
- Fishing
- Stay in Overwater Villas
- Hulhumale
- Maafushi
- Baros
- Sunset Cruise
- Underwater photoshoot
- Alimatha Island
Also, read my post on 5 things to do in Maldives.
Best Time & Season to Visit
The best time to visit this island is between November and April. During this season, the climate is tropical and warm. The average highs during this season will be between 29 and 31 degrees Celsius. The average lows rarely go below 24 degrees Celsius.
No one likes to visit the island during the driest months from January to April. During this season, you will experience low humidity and little rain. Due to low humidity, during this season some people visit the island mainly to experience the luxury offered by the resorts.
From May to December, the temperatures continue to be warm. However, you can expect a higher probability of rain during this season. Also, during this season, there will be long spells of bright sunshine. During this season, the prices of resorts will be a bit affordable, thereby making it the ideal season for those looking for an affordable stay in the Maldives.
About Male International Airport
Male International Airport is also called Velana International Airport. This airport is the key entry point to Maldives. This airport is located on Hulhule Island near Male. This international airport handles both international and domestic flight traffic on the island.
Male Airport is small. However, it is efficient enough to offer key services like lounges, restaurants and duty-free shops. The airport also houses dedicated counters for seaplane transfers. It is common for tourists heading to resorts in remote islands in Maldives to use these counters.
The Male Airport is standing at an elevation of 6 feet above average sea level. The airport has a single asphalt runway. The male airport also has a waterdrome nearby that serves the huge seaplane functions at Velana and has four water runways. A few of these runways are used for takeoff only, while the others are used for landing alone due to close standing to flying restricted areas.
How to Get a Maldives Visa?
As you are travelling from India, you will be happy that Indians do not need to get a visa in advance. Yes, Maldives offers visas on arrival for Indian tourists.
Requirements to Get a Visa on Arrival
You will have to meet the following requirements to get a visa on arrival at the island:
- You should have a travel document or a passport with MRZ or Machine Readable Zone. This document should be valid at least for a month upon arriving in Maldives
- You should have a confirmed onward or return flight ticket to your hometown.
- You should have proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay. It means that you should hold a minimum of USD 100 per day per person to cover your stay on the island. Otherwise, you should have a confirmed hotel booking ticket
Visitors are required to hold at least USD 100.- per person per day to cover their stay.
- You should fill up the traveller declaration form and submit it electronically. This submission should be done via IMUGA at https://imuga.immigration.gov.mv/. This is the Maldives government website. You should submit this declaration within 96 hours of flight time to Maldives.
- If applicable, you should have a Yellow Fever Vaccination certificate.
Visa Duration
The visa on arrival to Indian tourists is granted for 30 days. However, you have the option to get an extension for 60 more days. You can get this extension by submitting a formal application. You should submit this application a minimum of two days before the expiry of your 30-day visa.
How to Apply?
To get the Visa on arrival, you should keep the following documents ready at the immigration counter at Maldives Airport:
- Your confirmed return ticket to fly back from Maldives.
- Your valid passport with a minimum of six months of validity from the date of arrival.
- Confirmed hotel booking in Maldives
On arrival at Maldives, the Immigration Department at the airport will verify and cross-check your details. If they find your documents and information good, you can enter the island.
In addition to tourist visas, Maldives offers other types of visas as well. They are dependent visas, marriage visas, work visas and business visas.
Cost of Visiting Maldives
The Maldives trip cost from India can differ considerably based on the type of activities you wish to do there, your accommodation and travel style. Here is a general breakdown of the expenses you can expect during the trip:
- Flights: Based on how early you book and the season, the flight cost from India to Maldives can vary somewhere between Rs.15000 and Rs.30000.
- Accommodation: If you are on a budget, you can find guesthouses to stay on the island between Rs.3000 and Rs.7000 per night. Luxury resorts can cost somewhere from a minimum of Rs.40000 to more than Rs.1,50,000 per night.
- Meals: In local restaurants, meals can cost somewhere between Rs.500 to Rs. 1000 per person. In resorts, the dining cost can be considerably higher. Particularly, when a buffet lunch is served, the cost will be higher.
- Activities: For activities, you can expect to spend around Rs.5000 to Rs.20000 per person. This rule applies to excursions like water sports, diving and snorkelling.
When you plan to take the Maldives package, you can opt for all-inclusive deals offered by travel agencies or resorts. They offer bundled packages that include the cost of activities, meals, accommodation and flight costs.
Top 10 Resorts in Maldives
Here are the top 10 resorts in Maldives that are rated the best by guests:
- Sirru Fen Fushi Private Lagoon Resort
- Sun Siyam Iru Fushi
- Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa
- Sun Siyam Iru Veli
- Vakkaru Maldives
- Ja Manafaru Maldives
- OBLU SELECT Lobigili
- Ja Manafaru Maldives
- Hurawalhi Island Resort
- Anantara Veli Maldives Resort
FAQ
Can I Find Budget Accommodations in the Maldives?
Yes, Maldives is known for its luxury resorts. However, you can find budget hotels and guesthouses on the island. They offer affordable accommodation for travellers conscious of their budget.
Is it Safe to Travel Around the Maldives?
Yes, Maldives tourism is generally considered safe. Nevertheless, similar to other travel destinations, you should follow standard precautions, particularly about your safety and health. You should be careful with activities like water sports and diving.
How to Travel Between Islands in Maldives?
Maldives is a combination of islands. You can travel from one island to another via seaplanes, domestic flights, ferries and speedboats based on the location of your resort and distance. In the Maldives map, you can see how Maldives is a combination of many islands.
What Should I Pack During Maldives Trips?
Make sure to carry snorkelling gear, sunglasses, sunscreen, swimwear and light clothing. If you visit during the monsoon, make sure to carry an umbrella or a light raincoat.
Conclusion
The Maldives is undoubtedly an enchanting destination that offers an ideal blend of natural beauty, adventure and luxury. You might be interested in soaking in tropical vibes. Otherwise, you might be interested in underwater wonders or you might be interested in lounging by the sea. In all these cases, a trip to the Maldives is sure to bring an unforgettable experience.