The Maldives, a tropical nation in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its stunning beaches, blue lagoons, and extensive reefs. It’s a popular destination for luxury travel and water sports.
Here’s a detailed overview:
- Area: The Maldives spans approximately 90,000 square kilometers, with only about 298 square kilometers of that being dry land. It’s one of the world’s most geographically dispersed sovereign states, consisting of 1192 islands grouped into 26 atolls.
- Population: In 2023, the population of the Maldives was estimated at 525,994.
- Language: The official language is Dhivehi. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
- Currency: The Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR).
- Religion: Islam is the predominant and state religion. Small communities of other faiths, including Christians, Buddhists, and Hindus, are also present.
- Capital: Malé is the capital and most populous city.
- Cities: Besides Malé, other notable islands and cities include Hulhumalé, Maafushi Island, Addu City, Villingili, Fuvahmulah, Rasdhoo, and Dhidhdhoo.
- Attractions:
- Marine Life: Manta Ray Reef, Banana Reef, and Hanifaru Bay (for Manta Ray encounters) are world-renowned diving and snorkeling sites.
- Islands & Resorts: Maafushi Island (a popular local island), Veligandu Island (known for overwater villas and pristine beaches), Fihalhohi Island, Sun Island Resort, and Dhigurah Island.
- Cultural Sites in Malé: Maldives Islamic Centre, Old Friday Mosque, and local markets.
- Natural Wonders: The Maldives itself is a natural wonder, with pristine beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and lush tropical vegetation. Bioluminescent plankton displays also occur, creating a mesmerizing glow in the night sea.
- Wonders: The Maldives is often considered a natural wonder due to its unique geography of coral atolls, vibrant marine ecosystems, and breathtaking natural beauty.
- Architecture: Traditional Maldivian architecture often features coral stone. In recent years, modern architecture, influenced by international trends, has also emerged, incorporating elements like minarets and domes.
- Roads: Due to its archipelagic nature, the Maldives has limited road infrastructure. Most roads are found in Malé, Hulhumalé, and larger islands like Addu Atoll. Inter-island travel heavily relies on boats, seaplanes, and ferries. The Sinamalé Bridge connects Malé and Hulhulé.
- Hotels: The Maldives offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts with overwater villas and beach villas to guesthouses on local islands.
- Restaurants: Many resorts offer a variety of fine-dining options, including Italian, Indian, Asian, and seafood cuisines. On local islands, you can find restaurants serving traditional Maldivian dishes.
- Cuisine: Maldivian cuisine, also known as Dhivehi cuisine, is based on three main ingredients: coconuts, fish (especially tuna), and starches. Popular dishes include:
- Mas huni: A breakfast dish of tuna and coconut.
- Garudhiya: A traditional fish broth.
- Huni Roshi: Coconut flatbread.
- Maldives fish: Dried, smoked, and sun-dried fish.
- Masroshi: Fried, stuffed dough with tuna, coconut, and spices.
- Rihaakuru: A thick, brown fish paste.
- Gulha: Deep-fried balls filled with coconut, tuna, and chili.
- Annual Travel: The Maldives consistently attracts a significant number of tourists. In 2024, the country welcomed over 2 million visitors, and in 2023, there were 1.87 million tourist arrivals.
