How many islands are there in the Maldives? What is the ocean like in the Maldives?

The Maldives is a scattering of picturesque atolls in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Everything here is conducive to bliss: kilometers of secluded beaches, upscale hotels and very beautiful nature. All about the Maldives: diving and surfing, photos, prices, weather and tours.

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The Maldives, famous “residents” of the equatorial waters of the Indian Ocean, are rightfully considered one of the best exotic destinations. There are 1,190 islands (or rather, atolls) and all of them are just your choice: with blue lagoons, sandy beaches and unique vegetation. There is everything for relaxation: peace and tranquility, beautiful nature, a rich underwater world. And also something without which any advantages of any resort immediately fade in the eyes of modern tourists - good hotels and a high level of service.

Prices, it must be said, in the Maldives are also quite “at the level”: holidays here can be afforded mainly by travelers whose income level marketers define as “above average”. Having paid a significant amount for the trip, the following categories of vacationers will be 100% satisfied with their vacation. Divers are maniacs, diving three times a day. This is the most problem-free subtype of tourists: they will still be delighted, diving like ducklings from morning to night. Happily married (or unmarried) couples who need no one but each other. They can choose a hotel with the appropriate furnishings - there are plenty of them on the islands. And, of course, seekers of an absolutely relaxed holiday in the ambiance of a tropical paradise.

Time difference from Moscow

2 hours

• with Kaliningrad

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• with Yekaterinburg

• with Omsk

• with Krasnoyarsk

• with Irkutsk

• with Yakutsk

• with Vladivostok

• from Severo-Kurilsk

• with Kamchatka

History and legend

According to legend, life in the Maldives was once not as cloudless as glossy catalogs would have us believe. Sea genie Rannamaari, bad luck local residents settled in their territorial waters, demanded regular human sacrifices every full moon, and exclusively in the form of virgins from the island of Male. The poor fellows were taken to a certain temple, and the next morning they were found dead.

But it’s not all Maslenitsa: one day a traveler from the distant Maghreb, Abdul-Barakat ul-Barbari, arrived at the atoll. The stranger took pity on the girls (whom his compatriots apparently had nothing to do with) and on the full moon he himself sat down in the temple in the place of the victim. He read the Koran all night, but in the morning it turned out that the genie had escaped, unable to withstand the power of the holy book. So the women were saved, and the Maldivians joyfully converted to Islam - that’s why now there are mosques everywhere, a ban on the import of alcohol and no toplessness (presumably, they are afraid that the genie will return). However, this did not affect the amazing nature of the archipelago - and therefore its attractiveness for tourists.

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Climate

Climate Maldives- warm and humid. Air temperature during the day is about +30 °C, at night +26 °C, water temperature +26 °C. Due to its close location to the equator, seasonal changes associated with the monsoons are almost imperceptible. During the southwest monsoon (May to October), it rains more often and the weather is windier. The northeast monsoon season (November to February) is considered less humid.

Maps of the Maldives

Visa and customs

Police: 119, fire service: 118, ambulance: 102.

Beaches in the Maldives

In the Maldives, all roads lead to the beach: fine snow-white sand, perfectly blue waves, tall palm trees - everywhere you look, pictures from advertising posters come to life. The coastline is almost everywhere wide, spacious, equipped with amenities and umbrellas to protect you from the scorching sun. Most of the beaches belong to hotels, and the areas assigned to modest “three rubles” are not much inferior in grooming and comfort to fashionable five-star zones.

Topless sunbathing and drinking alcohol are strictly prohibited on Maldivian beaches.

The list of the most famous beaches of the archipelago includes Naladu and Banyan Tree on Male Atoll, San and Nika on Ari Atoll. Turtles nest on the shores of Lhaviani, and dolphins splash off the coast of Maafushi. The wealthy relax on the islands of Hadahaa (Gaafu Alif Atoll), Kunfunadhoo (Baa Atoll) and Veligandu (Ari Atoll). There is an equipped beach even in the capital: of course, it is not as spectacular as the recreation areas at luxury resorts, but it is quite suitable for surfing and sunbathing. And the most vivid impressions will be given by night swimming on the “glowing” beach: underwater microorganisms and luminescent algae on the coast of Vaadu (South Male) shimmer with blue lights in the dark, creating the effect of a starry sky descending to the ground.

Diving in the Maldives

Maldives... how much this word brings together for a diver’s heart: comfortable water temperature (+27 °C at a depth of 40 m), excellent visibility up to 30 m and, of course, professional dive centers. The disadvantages of this direction include strong currents outside the reefs. Best season for scuba diving in the archipelago - the period from January to April, when the weather is sunny and the water is clear. Giraavaru Island Resort, on the North Atoll, has over 20 sites known to divers from all over the world.

For beginners, diving on reefs would be ideal: on their inner slopes or inside the atoll. Advanced divers will be interested in the outer surface of the reef (amazing ocean fish live there in caves with ledges and terraces), but do not forget about strong currents and breaking waves. The underwater coral slides are very interesting - their tops are at a depth of 5 to 25 m, and their base is up to 40 m.

In addition, there are several interesting wrecks in the Maldives, for example, the cargo ship "Victoria" with the remains of goods brought to the islands or the steamer "Chaika", which sank at the end of the 19th century - its hull was completely split in two. Some popular sites: national reserve“Embudu” with a stunningly diverse underwater world, the Feliwaru and Halaveli rivers (here you can see giant stingrays), the Maaya reef, the cozy channel between the reefs of Fushi, teeming with many inhabitants, the secluded dive site of Rakido, the protected marine area of ​​​​Guraidhoo, the “shark” site of Miyaru .

Read more about local diving in the article by our regular expert, the charming Veronica Birman, “Diving without lyrics - 13. The soul of the Maldives.”

Surfing

Wave boarding is a relatively recent entertainment in the Maldives: only in the late 80s. The first surfers flocked here. Today, the islands are considered one of the most popular places in the world for surfing: it is never crowded (the number of people going out to sea is regulated by a special service), and the waves are just a sight for sore eyes: high, stable, ideally shaped. The prestigious international tournament O’Neill Deep Blue Open is regularly held on the island of Lohifushi.

There are 7 popular surfing spots in the Maldives, including Sultans, Pasta Point (with exclusive rights to “rent” waves by the Atoll Adventures club) and the so-called “Police Island”. The most wonderful surfing is from June to September, the height of local waves is from 1 to 2.5 m.

You can also practice surfing in the capital Male: there is a sandy bottom and there is no risk of cutting yourself on the coral at low tide. True, the landscapes are not as picturesque as at the atoll resorts.

Wedding in the Maldives

Entertainment and attractions

All the main beauties of the Maldives are located below sea level; there are no special attractions on land. There is the unremarkable capital of Male (excursion from 40 USD), many similar uninhabited islands where people like to have picnics (from 35 USD), as well as a kind of “action” - a fishing excursion. Perhaps the only notable overwater excursion is the Photo Flight, a seaplane flight over the islands. It costs a lot: for 15-20 minutes in the air you will have to pay about 150-250 USD. Other popular excursions are a yacht cruise (from 80-90 USD) or a submarine dive (from 45-50 USD).

Do you know how an atoll differs from “just an island”? Just in case, we give you information: an atoll is coral island in the form of a continuous or discontinuous ring surrounding the lagoon. If you look from under the water, the atoll will most likely be long ago an extinct volcano, on the slopes of which a coral reef once began to grow - and grew so much that it gradually appeared on the surface. But the top of the volcano, on the contrary, over many centuries collapsed and sank under water. You know the rest: people sailed from somewhere to the formed ring, built hotels with restaurants and spas, and opened diving centers.

If your soul still requires a cultural program, we recommend visiting the National Museum on the territory of the picturesque Sultan Park, the Islamic Center under the golden dome and Presidential Palace in Male. The oldest in the country, the Old Friday Mosque with a unique minaret (1656) and the tomb of Mohammed Takurufanu, a legend of national resistance, are also located here. Ari Atoll has the ruins of a Buddhist temple from 90 BC. e., on the island of Matirah (Haa Alif Atoll) - a mausoleum with a sacred tomb, a place of pilgrimage for Muslims.

Holidays and Events

The main holidays in the Maldives are patriotic and religious in nature. The most magnificent celebrations take place on Independence Day, July 26: the islanders have fun in honor of the long-awaited exit from British protectorate and the declaration of sovereignty. On the first day of the month of Rabi al-Awwal, Nation Day is celebrated to commemorate the liberation from the Portuguese invaders by the troops of Mohammed Takurufanu. On the 12th day of the same month, the birth of the Prophet Muhammad is celebrated.

The end of holy Ramadan marks Eid al-Fitr: three days of hearty meals, visits and other entertainment. After 70 days, Eid al-Fitr begins with traditional services and sacrifices. November 3 is Victory Day in honor of the coup d'état prevented in 1988. In the first month of the Muslim calendar, Muharram, religious celebrations are held to celebrate the Islamic New Year.

December 10 is one of the most colorful local holidays: Fisherman's Day with folk festivities and noisy fairs. Adored by foreign tourists New Year(January 1) and Christmas (December 25) arrange bright celebrations in hotels and on city streets: the degree of fun depends only on the thickness of the wallet.

— island state in southern Asia, in the northern part of the Indian Ocean. There are more than 2000 small islands. Maritime boundaries lie in the Indian Ocean.

The name of the country comes from the Sanskrit dwipa - “island”.

Official name: Republic of Maldives

Capital: Male

Territory area: 298 sq. km

Total Population: 395 thousand people

Administrative division: The country is divided into 20 island groups.

Form of government: Republic.

Head of State: President, elected for a term of 5 years.

Population composition: 99% are Maldivians (the ethnogenesis is not entirely clear), as well as Arabs and people from the African continent.

State language: Maldivian (Dhivehi). English language widespread in the capital Male and resorts.

Religion: Almost the entire population professes Sunni Islam.

Internet domain: .mv

Mains voltage: ~230 V, 50 Hz

Country dialing code: +960

Climate

Tropical sea. The temperature all year round on average does not fall below +25 C even at night. Average temperature is about +28 C all year round (daytime maximum is about +32 C, night minimum is +25 C). Precipitation is about 2500 mm. per year, most often in the form of short rains in the evening and at night. The water temperature is also constant - about +24-27 C all year round.

The best weather conditions observed during the “Iruvai” period (from November-December to March-April, the northeast monsoon season), when the sea is calm and the weather is sunny and dry. From May to October, during the "hulhangu" season (April to October), the weather is less predictable - the southwest monsoon can bring intermittent rain, high humidity and choppy seas (however, this period is the least hot). Storms and waves are most likely in June and December.

Geography

The island state of the Maldives is 700 km away. southwest of Sri Lanka, in the equatorial waters of the Indian Ocean. Two almost parallel chains of islands, fringed by coral reefs and lying at a relatively short distance from each other, stretch for 820 km. from north to south. There are 1,196 islands in total, forming 26 atolls, of which only 199 are inhabited and about 100 are open to the public. Total area countries about 90 thousand square meters. km., sushi - only 298 sq. km.

Flora and fauna

Flora

Forests cover no more than 3% of the islands' area. They grow on many islands coconut trees, which do not suffer from soil salinity, banana groves and dense shrub cover are developed, in places there are mangroves, and in the interior of the islands there are banyan trees, pandanus and various thorny plants.

Animal world

Coastal waters abound with fish. There are sea turtles, which have been intensively exterminated by the population for a long time. Their meat and fat were used for food, and their shells were used for various crafts. Currently, turtles are on the verge of extinction and are protected by law. The Million Trees environmental protection program has been in effect since 1996. Within its framework, nurseries have been created in which seedlings are grown for further planting on the islands of the archipelago.

The traditional activities of the Maldivians are collecting cowrie shells and growing coconut trees, which produce copra, vegetable oil and palm leaves. Crops such as rice, taro, millet, corn, sweet potato, and cassava are also cultivated. Among the industrial sectors, fish processing is developed.

Attractions

The Maldives is widely known for its resort atolls, each of which is its own unique world, surrounded by the purest coral beaches and the indescribably blue sea. This is “a place at the edge of the world”, where there is no noise of cities and annoying signs of civilization, where there is only exotic nature and endless expanses of the ocean.

Numerous underwater coral reefs and caves stretch throughout the Maldives archipelago, lush tropical vegetation emphasizes the pristine and unique beauty of the islands, and the ancient culture of the local residents creates a unique setting for a secluded holiday.

Banks and currency

Maldivian rupees (rufiyaa). One rupee is equal to 100 lari. Banknotes in circulation are in denominations of 500, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 2 rupees. As well as coins of 50, 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1 lari. US dollars and major currency are accepted everywhere. credit cards, so it is not necessary to exchange dollars for local currency upon arrival.

In Male there are banks and exchange offices concentrated on Marine Drive. They are open from 8.00 to 13.30, from Sunday to Thursday (like many other Muslim countries, Friday and Saturday are the weekend in the Maldives). Upon departure, the remaining rupees can be exchanged back to dollars. Currency exchange can be carried out not only in a bank, but also in a number of large stores, on which a special sign hangs next to the signs of international tourist cards.

Useful information for tourists

Consumption of alcohol in public places (outside the resort area) is prohibited. It is recommended to drink bottled water and soft drinks. Although local water is purified quite thoroughly (often it is desalinated sea ​​water), but due to high temperatures it quickly becomes unusable.

Traditional Islamic norms of behavior are strong in the country, but without the slightest sign of fanaticism. The restrictions are the same as in Oman. Photography is prohibited in mosques. Mosque guards usually insist on accompanying tourists, hoping to charge a fee, but in fact, you can explore the mosque on your own. Nude swimming is prohibited on all islands of the archipelago, with the exception of Kuramati Island. You can bargain at markets and in private stores, but the size of the “discount” is usually small.

Underwater hunting and unauthorized fishing are prohibited (all types of sea fishing are freely organized in hotels), and it is strictly forbidden to lift corals (both living and dead), shells and other marine life from the bottom of the sea. Violations result in heavy fines. The country has one of the largest markets in the region selling shells, corals and various exotic marine animals, so you can always purchase these souvenirs without breaking local laws.

Officially, tips are not accepted, but unofficially, if the service really deserves it, it is customary to leave a small amount for the service worker personally ($10 per week for a hotel worker or 5% for a waiter). Some resorts include a service charge on the bill (usually 10%), in which case tipping is not necessary. In the case of renting a boat or speedboat, the amount should be discussed in advance.

The local population lives and works, tourists relax. We invite you to find out what islands are in the Maldives and why they are interesting.

How many islands are there in the Maldives?

There are 1,192 islands of the Maldives on the world map, and not all of them are inhabited. Each of the islands belongs to one of 21 island groups - the so-called atolls. They are the main administrative-territorial unit of the state. Let's look at each atoll separately.

List of islands in the Maldives

So, it's time to go to the very heavenly place on the planet:

1. - the name of the main island of the Maldives. It has the highest population density (as many as 103,693 people per 4.39 sq. km!). The capital of the Maldives itself bears the name “Male” - the largest locality on the archipelago. In addition to residential areas, it is located here (on Hulule Island). It is in Male that there are most tourist, entertainment complexes, souvenir and other shops. The Male Atoll in the Maldives includes artificial island Hulumale, settled relatively recently, in 2004.


2. (or Haa Alifu) is officially called North Thiladunmati, or Thiladunmati Uthuruburi. It ranks 3rd in the list of Maldivian atolls in terms of population and area. It consists of 43 islands (14 are inhabited), which are located in the very north of the archipelago. The resorts of Haa Alif Atoll opened for tourists only in 2005. The most popular islands for relaxation - these are Donakuli, Alidu, Utim. On the atoll you can visit an 18th-century mosque and the ancient mausoleum of the Maldivian kings.


3. – about 16 thousand people live on the 16 inhabited islands of the atoll. There is a small regional airport on Hanimadhoo Island, and ancient Buddhist ruins on Faridhoo.


4. (or Shaviyani) has pristine beaches and a rich underwater world. The atoll includes 51 islands with the capital at Funadhu. Most of the islands are small in size. Among unusual places The mangrove swamps of Maroshi Island stand out. Today, Shaviyani Atoll in the Maldives offers only 3 hotels (Vagaru, Doliyadhoo and Komandu islands), but the tourism infrastructure is actively expanding.


5. (or Noonu), with its capital on the island of Manadu, has 13 residential islands out of a total of 70. This atoll is famous not only for its luxury hotels, but also for the possibility of an excellent romantic getaway: those who wish can rent a dhoni boat and get to any of uninhabited islands this atoll of the Maldives to feel what a vacation away from civilization is like. All the attractions of Nunu Atoll are underwater - these are a variety of dive sites. It is also convenient that each local resort has its own dive center.


6. (aka North Maalosmadulu) is one of the most frequently visited by foreign tourists. The atoll’s 88 islands, of which 15 are inhabited, are located 140 km from the capital of the country. The capital of Raa, the island of Ungofaru, is famous as a center for the production of traditional dhoni boats. The most popular islands of Raa Atoll in the Maldives are Midhupparu, Rasgethimu, Kandoludhu, Rasmaadu.


7. (Goydhu Atoll or South Malosmadulu). The islands of this atoll are considered the most beautiful in the Maldives. Its virgin forests, coupled with snow-white beaches, remind vacationers of a tropical paradise. Moreover, Baa Atoll in the Maldives has been considered a biosphere reserve since 2001. Of its 75 islands, only 13 are inhabited, and luxury hotels and resorts are concentrated on them. On the islands of Eidafushi and Tuladhoo you can buy excellent souvenirs - people even come here from Male to buy them. Vacationers stop on the islands of Khorubadhu, Fonimagudhu, Dhunikolu, Kihaduffaru.


8. (Laviyani or Faadhippolu) is famous for its popular dive sites. It has only 5 inhabited islands, among which it is the leader in terms of attendance - in the Maldives it is the most famous resort– and no less popular, the best budget island in the country. In general, Lhaviyani Atoll is a romantic place with many options for water activities. Its islands are the best in the Maldives for beach holiday. In addition to this, this includes snorkeling, wind surfing, fishing, yachting and sea canoeing, and walking along the sand spit at dusk.


9. - the center of the Maldives Republic. Its resorts are convenient because they are closest to the country's only airport. The capital of Kaafu in the Maldives is. The atoll has many hotels with house reefs, hotels for honeymoon, “family” hotels and, of course, all-inclusive establishments. Here is Thilafushi, the only garbage island in the Maldives, created as a landfill, and the popular tourist islands of Huraa and Bandos.


10. , or Ari - 8 islands of the atoll have a permanent population. This place in the Maldives is more than popular among tourists: paradise islands, are the most popular among those who want to relax by the warm sea.


11. Alif-Dhaal welcomes guests with historical sights - you can visit a beautiful wooden mosque and a Buddhist stupa. In addition, guests of the island will find several hotels, mini-hotels and a unique underwater restaurant located at a depth of 5 m - it was the first of its kind in the world.


12. (aka Felidhu) is an atoll with a population of only 2,300 people living on 5 islands. They are considered the best diving in the Maldives, and the most interesting of the dive sites is.


13. (Meemu) began accepting foreign holidaymakers not so long ago. There are only 2 hotels here, but they truly represent luxury resorts. Among guests, trips to the beaches of the uninhabited part of the atoll are popular for a romantic holiday in the lap of pristine nature. Among the attractions, noteworthy is the mosque on the island of Kolufushi, where an ancient artifact is kept - the sword of Sultan Muhammad Takurufaan.


14. (Nilande Atoll). Of the 23 islands, there is only one resort island - Filitheyo. Its villas are designed in an eco-style with a slight touch of luxury, and at the same time equipped to the highest standards. On the island you can see an ancient cemetery, where you will be shown the grave of a local wizard. The famous traveler Thor Heyerdahl once conducted research on Faafu Atoll: it was here that he found the oldest evidence that Buddhism was practiced in the Maldives in pre-Islamic times.


15. (or Daalu) gives tourists a romantic atmosphere, privacy and communication with wildlife. It was even nicknamed “turtle island” - these animals lay their eggs here, and tourists enjoy admiring the newborn turtles. Of the 56 picturesque islands, only 7 are inhabited, and 2 are given over to tourism businesses. The capital of the atoll is the city of Kudahuvadhu. For magnificent jewelry local craftsmen, tourists go to the islands of Rinbudu and Hulundeli.


16. (Kolumadulu), with its capital Weimandu, consists of 66 islands. People inhabit 13 of them. All the attractions of Thaa Atoll are pristine nature: Most of the islands are in the condition in which they were created by nature, and this is their main value.


17. has as many as 82 islands, but only 12 are inhabited. They have conditions not only for diving, but also for surfing. Those who like snorkeling will also like the islands of Laamu Atoll - there are shallow lagoons. Archaeological monuments are also interesting in this area - the ruins of ancient monasteries and stupas.


18. (Gaafu-Alifa) will delight you with only a few hotels, but only the most luxurious ones. But there are many excellent diving spots where you can find octopuses, manta rays and huge glowing jellyfish. The atoll is considered one of the natural reserves of the Maldives. Travelers are drawn here by the seclusion of these places and especially the heart-shaped island, the only one in the Maldives.


19. has a permanent population located on 9 islands. The first resort here was built in 2006 on the island of Vatavarrehaa - it was a luxurious hotel designed for 150 people. It appealed to lovers of secluded relaxation. And today, numerous surfers come to Fiyoari Island.


20. - a special atoll. There is no lagoon inside - it is completely filled with corals, forming one big island. Mangoes, bananas, and papayas are grown on its fertile soil. Notable features on Fuvahmulah Island are Reading Hill and the Kedera Mosque.


21. - the southernmost atoll of the Maldives archipelago, it is also the highest (2.4 m above sea level). Here is Gan, the second most important airport in the country, built on the island of the same name in the Maldives, the largest in the country. The archipelago has 6 inhabited islands out of a total of 24. The capital of the atoll is Hithadhoo, and it is most popular among tourists in the Maldives. Natural beauties include luxurious lush gardens, banana and coconut plantations and the only freshwater lake in the Maldives.

Endless snow-white sandy beaches, warm and clear sea surface, picturesque lagoons and bays in the Maldives speak for themselves, but most of all tourists are attracted by high-quality service and comfort in hotels.

Maldives on the world map

The fabulous Republic of Maldives is located near the equator in the South region.

This island state, consisting of a small number of picturesque atolls, has long become one of the most desirable holiday destinations for newlyweds.

In total, the state has about 26 atolls, one of the most significant and largest among them is the atoll called Male. It is here that the capital of the Republic of Maldives with the same name Male is located. Since ancient times, a king lived on these island territories, so many ancient masterpieces of architecture have been preserved here. This region is also home to a large part of the local population.

Republic of Maldives

The total number of islands that make up the state reaches almost 1.2 thousand. All of them are interconnected into a single double chain of atolls, and are also formed on the basis of underwater mountain range about 1000 kilometers long. The largest island in the country is called Gan. Not all of the island possessions of the Maldives are inhabited by people. Hundreds of little corners of paradise are still waiting in the wings and sparkling with unprecedented and untouched beauty. Only a sixth of all Maldivian islands are inhabited. The total area of ​​the Maldives is about 300 square kilometers, the local population barely reaches 393 thousand people.
The country's topography is flat, so you shouldn't look for massive mountains and lowlands here. Sandy and only slightly elevated above sea level. The highest peak of the Maldives archipelago is rightfully considered to be a point called Siena, about 2.5 meters high. It is located in the southern part of the luxurious Addu Atoll. Regarding sources fresh water, then they are presented groundwater and several rivers that can only be observed after the rainy season. During particularly dry periods they disappear completely.
The flora in the Maldives is quite sparse and is represented only by some herbaceous plants, banyan trees and palm trees. The industrious local population also diligently cultivates papaya, tropical fruits, hot peppers, eggplants and many other crops. There are no forests in the Maldives, but the luxurious branches of palm trees along the beaches shelter travelers from the scorching sun and bring long-awaited coolness.
We should also talk about the peculiarities of the local animal world. Tourists simply adore these islands not only for their natural splendor, but also for the absence of dangerous wild animals and reptiles. The birds living on the islands, flying foxes and mice delight the eye, and the underwater world opens up an even more mysterious and fascinating world to travelers. That is why the Maldives is a favorite place for divers from all over the world.

Flag of the Republic of Maldives

Until 1965, the Maldives were part of the territorial possessions of Great Britain (the remains of the British Territory are located south of the islands), but already in July of that year the republic received its long-awaited independence and national flag. The flag of the national Maldivian flag is a deep red rectangle, in the center of which is another bright green rectangle with a snow-white crescent in the middle.

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Recently, these islands have become especially popular among newlyweds. Couples in love prefer that no one disturbs them, so they choose deserted islands, of which there are more than enough in this country. Particular attention should be paid. Tourists face wide choice comfortable rooms in picturesque wooden bungalows right on the water or in more modern hotel complexes, but sailing lovers can even stay on a yacht so as not to be interrupted from their favorite activity.
One of the most fashionable local activities is diving. The endless expanses of the ocean and the nearby Laccadian Sea attract experienced divers from all over the world, and especially for beginners there are several professional specialized diving schools, where you can acquire all the necessary equipment and equipment.
True gourmets will certainly be delighted with traditional Maldivian cuisine with its spicy Indian sauces, abundance of fruits and all sorts of variations in the preparation of mouth-watering seafood and fish. There are no locally made alcoholic drinks in the Maldives, as they are prohibited by Islam, but tourists can enjoy imported goods in hotels.
It's hardly inexpensive, but all this luxury is worth the money. Shopping lovers should look into the souvenir shops and shops in Male, where they will be greeted by a vibrant selection of products made from coral, shells, palm wood and other traditional materials. Plus, the Maldives has fabulous cultural and historical dizzying attractions!

Have a nice trip!

The Republic of Maldives is the smallest in the world asian country. It is a collection of islands lost in the middle of the endless Indian Ocean. Every year, areas of land are increasingly immersed in water and, according to researchers, they will soon face serious flooding.

Because of this, the water level in the ocean is constantly rising, which could soon lead the Maldives to disaster. If you want to visit this truly paradise, where time seems to have stopped, hurry up! Its pristine beauty will not leave anyone indifferent - snow-white sandy beaches, blue lagoons, evergreen tropical trees will forever remain in the soul of any traveler.

Where is the Maldives on the map? Geographical location of the state

The Maldives is quite difficult to find on the world map. This small country is located in the Indian Ocean, south of the Hindustan Peninsula and southwest of the island of Ceylon. Its closest neighbors are India (595 km), Sri Lanka (670 km) and the Chagos Archipelago (500 km). You can see the Maldives on the map below.

The Republic of Maldives is a coral archipelago, the length of which from west to east is 130 km, and from north to south - 823 km. It consists of 1,196 small islands believed to be of volcanic origin. They form a double chain of 26 atolls - large coral land areas that look like a broken ring. The largest and most significant are the Southern (Nord Niland) and Aria Atoll. The distance between groups varies from 25 to 80 km.

The total area of ​​land and reefs in the Maldives is 298 square meters. km., and the total territory together with water area- 900,000 sq. km. Of the more than 1,100 islands, only 202 are inhabited, and more than 70 of them are first-class tourist resorts.

Historical background

Very little information has been preserved about the early history of the Maldives. The culture of the Maldives is believed to have appeared earlier than the 5th century BC. Fragments of pottery found during excavations suggested that Redin settlements were founded on the islands as early as 2000 BC. In 500 BC. on southern islands Buddhists arrived from Fr. Ceylon. This fact is confirmed by an ancient Buddhist manuscript and the head of a Buddha statue dating back to the 11th century. The first Chinese sailors reached the Maldives in 412. Since 1153 - since the adoption of Islam - all major historical events have been recorded in the history of the sultanate.

According to numerous testimonies from sailors, the islands were ruled by female sultanas for a long time. Europeans up to the 15th century. knew nothing about the country and did not mark the Maldives on the world map until Vasco da Gama crossed Indian Ocean. In 1507, Lourenzo de Almeida sailed to the islands, and in 1529, the Parmentier brothers. From 1558 the Portuguese dominated the islands until guerrilla warfare began and they were destroyed. Further, until 1760, the Maldives were under the protection of the French, and from the mid-17th century. - the Dutch, and then the British. In mid-1965, after massive popular uprisings, the Maldives gained independence from Great Britain. In 1968, a new constitution was adopted, and the country acquired the official name - "Republic of the Maldives".

State flag

A modern version of the main state symbol The country was adopted in July 1965. The flag of the Maldives is a red cloth with a green rectangle and a white crescent. It has a special symbolic meaning. The color red represents the courage of the heroes who, without hesitation, defended and will defend their country, sacrificing themselves and shedding blood. The green rectangle symbolizes the nature of the Maldives - coconut palms, which are the source of life for the indigenous population. The white crescent symbolizes the religiosity of the Maldivians and reflects their commitment to Islam.

Economy of the Maldives

Now the Republic of Maldives is a democratic developing state with a president at its head.

The country's economy is based on three pillars: tourism, shipping and fishing. Thanks to the mild climate, rich underwater world and the amazingly beautiful coral reefs attract crowds of tourists. In the open sea, it is carried out in lagoons and not far from the shores, turtles are caught, corals, shells and natural pearls are mined.

Official banknotes. Currency exchange

The currency of the Maldives is the Rufiyaa. It consists of one hundred laari. One US dollar is approximately equal to a dozen rufiyaa. There are banknotes of various denominations in circulation throughout the country, including 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 500 rufiyaa, as well as coins - 1, 2, 5, 10, 25 and 50 lari.

You can exchange currency at any bank, airport or exchange offices at the official rate. On islands remote from the capital, it will be difficult to make an exchange at a rather unfavorable rate. Basically, calculations require small bills, so stock up on them in sufficient quantities. On many expensive resorts They accept US dollars and euros, as well as credit cards.

Demography

The population living on the archipelago is approximately 400 thousand people. Almost all of them are descendants of immigrants from the Middle East, South, and Southeast Asia. The official language is called "Dhivehi", it is a kind of mixture of Arabic, English and Sinhala. The local writing system is based on the Arabic-Persian script. Indigenous people islands professes Islam (Sunnism). It was brought by the Arabs and spread from the 12th century. And in 1968, Islam was declared the state religion.

Capital of the Republic of Maldives

Currently, Male is the capital of the Republic of Maldives. small town, located on the adjacent islets of Vilingile and Male. Its area is only 5.8 square meters. km. The population of Male is approximately 105 thousand people. Get to administrative, political and cultural center The Maldives can be reached by air or sea, by boat, seaplane taxi or speedboat between the islands.

You can explore all the sights of Male by walking around it. When visiting the city, it is advisable to wear things that cover your body well from the neck to the knees. Almost all the souvenir shops are located at the northern end of Chaandani Magu. Here you can buy Maldivian mats made of palm fiber, decorative fishing boats, canned fish and amazingly delicious seafood. In general, Male is not rich in attractions, although an inquisitive tourist will enjoy the shady Jumuri Maidan park, National Museum in Sultans Park, the Islamic Center with the Good Friday Mosque and the Medu Ziyarat Chapel.

Climate in the Maldives

The archipelago is dominated by a tropical monsoon climate. All year round the air temperature is quite high, has a small amplitude and varies between 26°C - 32°C. At night it does not drop below 25°C. In winter - from November to March - northeastern, warm monsoons predominate. In summer - from June to August - south-westerly, more humid winds prevail. It often rains lightly on the islands at this time. The water temperature varies between 24°C - 27°C. During the dry season from November to early April, the Maldives attracts numerous tourists from all over the world. The mild, warm climate, comfortable sea temperature, lack of rain and strong winds make the islands so attractive to travelers.

It is interesting that a sufficient number of tourists visit the Maldives even during the “wet” season. Despite the high humidity, large number precipitation and raging winds, the influx of vacationers does not subside. The fact is that from mid-April to early November, the cost of air tickets, accommodation and food is significantly reduced, which attracts travelers who want to save money.

Flora and fauna

The Maldives Islands are famous throughout the world for their amazing diversity of marine fauna and flora. The sea is full of amazing corals. Schools of a variety of exotic fish, turtles, jellyfish, mollusks, starfish and urchins, moray eels, stingrays, attract diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.

Predators also live in the waters of the Maldives - sharks with black fins and sharks with white fins; huge ocean inhabitants - hammerhead sharks and whale sharks - also swim here. But you don’t have to be afraid of them, since they are non-aggressive and practically harmless to divers. To prevent accidents, as well as to preserve the unique flora and fauna of the Maldives, there are strict restrictions on scuba diving. Including, it is forbidden to dive to a depth of more than 30 m, it is forbidden to spend more than 60 minutes under water, each diver must have a dive computer with him, etc. Land fauna and flora are not very diverse.

Breadfruit, coconut, and banana are common on many islands of the Maldives. The atolls - Dhaalu (Dhaalu) and Fafu - stand out for their lush vegetation. Exotic flowers grow here: water lily hernandia, catappa herminalia, etc., there are impenetrable mangroves with huge ferns. There are no large animals in the Maldives, but you can find a bat or an Indian flying fox. The islands are also inhabited by terns, parrots, sea gulls, and cormorants.

How to get to the archipelago?

The vast majority of tourists reach the Maldives by plane. The archipelago has international airport named after Ibrahim Nasir. It is located on Hulule Island, 2 km away. from the capital. The airport receives flights from various cities, including Moscow, Vienna, Qatar, Kuala Lumpur, etc.

On the official website of the airport you can find all the necessary information, including viewing flight arrival times, choosing a suitable transfer and even planning a trip. There is an ATM, a bank, and a luggage storage facility on the airport premises. You can have a snack or drink coffee in any of the cafes you like. To the left of the exit from the airport building there is a pier. Ferries depart from here every 10-15 minutes to the capital of the country. The fare varies between 1-2 USD, depending on the time of day.

Great resorts. Maldives - a paradise for tourists

Vacationers are transported to the surrounding atolls on small, nimble seaplanes or boats. North and South Male, Ari, Baa, Miimu, Lhaviani, Haa Alifu, Faafu, Dhaalu atolls are the most beautiful resorts in the country, and each of them has its own zest.

There are more than 120 hotels in the Maldives, which can simultaneously serve about 50 thousand tourists. Basically all hotels have 4 or 5 stars; it is extremely rare to find a hotel with a worse level of service. Also in the Maldives you can stay in a magnificent bungalow and enjoy privacy.

Recreation and entertainment

The beaches of the archipelago are clean, with pleasant white sand. The water is amazingly warm and calm. The Maldives offers a respectable holiday, the absence of noise and fuss and communication with unique nature. For lovers active recreation There is a developed sports entertainment infrastructure. At the resorts you can go yachting, canoeing, skiing, surfing and, of course, diving. Drinking alcohol, collecting and damaging corals, and spearfishing are prohibited on the beaches of the atolls.

It is worth noting that the consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited not only on the beaches, but also in any public places outside the resort area. Topless or nude swimming is also not permitted. In addition, littering is prohibited on the islands. Any violation of the order will result in a serious fine.

Customs in the Maldives

All travelers should familiarize themselves in advance with the list of goods that are allowed to be imported and exported from the country. All luggage must be inspected by customs officers. It is allowed to import cigarettes (200 pcs.), perfume (125 ml), and personal consumption goods into the territory of the Maldives. It is not allowed to bring alcoholic beverages, pork, sausage, drugs and pornography. For attempting to violate the law, a fine of 500 USD is imposed. Any tourist should remember that the export of products made from turtle shells, pearl oyster shells, black and red corals is strictly prohibited. Items found at sea cannot be taken out of the country either. Be careful and enjoy your holiday!