Destinations / The best countries in Asia / Maldives

Total area: 298 km2
Population: 396,334 (2010 estimate)
Density: 1,036.9/km2
Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)
Official language(s): Dhivehi
Capital: Malé
Governement: Presidential republic
Internet TLD: .mv
Calling code: 960

  Maldives is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean. It is composed of twenty-six atolls accounting 1190 coral islands, situated between Minicoy Island and Chagos Archipelago. Of these, 200 islands are inhabited, while 88 are exclusively used for tourist purposes. It lies in the Laccadive Sea, south-west from Sri Lanka and south-west from India. 

  The islands are surrounded by turquoise waters; exotic equatorial palms shade the fine sand beaches. The distance among the islands is very little, allowing guests to easily visit them. The atmosphere is idyllic, as all the islands boast a great intact natural environment. The geography of the place combined with a rigid administration and Islamic religion have resulted in a unique and interesting island type of personality.  

  Tourism industry is the most important industry in the economy of Maldives, playing an important role in foreign exchange revenues and jobs. Maldives Islands are worldwide famous for their natural beauty: blue ocean, white sandy beaches and pleasant temperatures, while the climate is ideal for water sports lovers. Resorts are full of luxury hotels, restaurants, cafes, shops, bars, discos and so much more.

  If you plan to explore Maldives, make sure to not miss: Male - the capital city; the Islamic Center, Male's Fish Market, Local Market near Male's Fish Market, Huskuru Miskiiy Mosque, Mule-aage Palace, and National Museum. 

  The most crowded time of the year is from December to April, because days are longer. However, the peak period is Christmas-New Year, most tourists coming from Europe or America.

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Maps of Maldives