About Maldives
Nestled like scattered pearls in the heart of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is a breathtaking archipelago of nearly 1,200 coral islands, grouped into 26 natural atolls. With its stunning turquoise lagoons, powdery white-sand beaches, and luxury overwater villas, the Maldives is more than just a vacation destination — it’s a tropical dream brought to life.
Located southwest of India and Sri Lanka, the Maldives offers travelers an escape into a world where time slows down, Every day starts with the calming sound of waves caressing the shoreline where the sky and the sea meet.
Whether you're honeymooning in a secluded villa, diving among vibrant coral gardens, or enjoying a candlelit seafood dinner on a sandbank, the Maldives provides unmatched natural beauty, romantic serenity, and luxury hospitality at every turn.
The Maldives is globally adored for its pristine beauty and peaceful isolation, but there’s so much more to this island nation:
🌊 Unrivaled Water Clarity: The warm, shallow waters are so clear, you can spot fish beneath your villa without even snorkeling.
🏝️ Overwater Bungalows: Now symbolic of luxury travel, these villas offer direct access to the ocean from your private deck.
🐠 Rich Marine Biodiversity: Coral reefs, manta rays, sea turtles, dolphins, whale sharks, and thousands of reef fish species await under the surface.
💑 Romantic Getaways: The Maldives is a top choice for honeymooners and couples seeking privacy and luxury.
Unforgettable Sunsets: Take in the boundless ocean horizon as the sky bursts into pink, gold, and purple hues.
🌟 Night-time Magic: Visit glowing bioluminescent beaches like Vaadhoo Island, where waves light up blue under your feet.
🧘 Holistic Wellness: Many resorts offer open-air spas, sunrise yoga, meditation classes, and Ayurveda treatments.
History of Maldives
Though best known for its beaches, the Maldives has a deep-rooted history influenced by seafarers, traders, and religious transitions.
🧭 Early Settlements: Traces of human life date back to around the 5th century BC, with settlers from Sri Lanka and India.
🌍 Trade Crossroads: Due to its location along the ancient maritime Silk Route, the Maldives became a melting pot of African, Arab, Indian, and Southeast Asian influences.
🕌 Islamic Identity: In 1153 AD, the Maldives adopted Islam, which remains central to its culture and law.
🇬🇧 Colonial Influence: The British protected the Maldives from 1887 until gaining independence in 1965.
🗳️ Modern Republic: In 1968, the Maldives became a republic. Since then, it has evolved into a world-class tourism destination, balancing modernization with heritage.
Mesmerizing Views of Maldives
Why Visit the Maldives?
Routes for Maldives
Direct flights are available from major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Kochi, Chennai, and Hyderabad.
From other countries:
Direct or connecting flights are available from cities like Dubai, Doha, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, London, and Istanbul.
Airlines that operate to MLE:
IndiGo, SriLankan Airlines, GoFirst, Vistara, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, British Airways, Turkish Airlines.
🧳 Tip: Most resorts or islands offer pre-booked transfers (speedboat, seaplane, or domestic flight) from MLE airport to your final destination.
🚆 By Train
Not Available
There is no rail connectivity to the Maldives because it is an island nation in the ocean. Travelers from nearby countries must first take a flight to reach Maldives.
🚢 By Sea
Cruise Option – Limited and Luxurious
While there’s no regular ferry or passenger ship service from India or Sri Lanka, cruise ships from Dubai, Singapore, and India (occasionally) do stop at Malé as part of international itineraries.
Ideal for: Luxury travelers
Availability: Seasonal and limited
Not suitable for: Backpackers or short-term travelers
| Mode | Availability | Description | Approx. Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✈️ By Air | ✅ Yes | Flights to Velana Int’l Airport (MLE) from India, Middle East, Europe, Asia | 2–10 hours | All travelers |
| 🚆 By Train | ❌ No | No train connectivity (island nation) | N/A | N/A |
| 🚢 By Sea | ⚠️ Limited | Cruise stopovers only (no regular passenger ferry) | Multi-day (depends on cruise) | Luxury travelers, cruise enthusiasts |
| City | Duration | Airlines |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai | ~2 hr 45 min | IndiGo, GoFirst, Vistara |
| Delhi | ~4 hr 30 min | IndiGo, Vistara, SriLankan (1-stop) |
| Kochi | ~1 hr 45 min | IndiGo, SpiceJet |
| Chennai | ~2 hr 15 min | IndiGo, GoFirst |
| Bengaluru | ~2 hr 30 min | IndiGo |
| Hyderabad | ~2 hr 50 min | IndiGo, SriLankan (1-stop) |
Facts about Maldives
Interesting Facts About Maldives You Should Know Before Visiting
- The lowest nation in the world, averaging just 1.5m above sea level.
- Home to 5% of the world’s coral reefs despite its small size.
- The Maldives has no visa requirement for most countries for up to 30 days.
- Some private islands can be walked across in under 10 minutes.
- Genetic studies show a mix of South Asian, Arab, and African ancestry in Maldivian people.
- Several resorts offer underwater yoga or floating meditation sessions.
- Climate change poses a serious threat — the Maldives could be submerged within this century if sea levels rise unchecked.
- Featured on ChaloGhoome: Must-Visit Spots Fihalhohi Island – Turquoise lagoons and palm-lined shores.
- Dhigurah Island – Whale shark capital of the Maldives.
- Kuredu Island – Great for families and beginners in diving.
- Thulusdhoo – Surf hotspot with cool vibes and local art.
- Rangali Island – Home to the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant.
Plan Your Visit: Maldives
Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting the Maldives: Stay Options, Activities, and Packing Tips
Best Time to Visit
Dry Season (Nov–Apr): Sunny skies, calm seas, and perfect visibility for diving/snorkeling. Peak tourism season.
Wet Season (May–Oct): Occasional tropical rain but lower prices and excellent surfing conditions.
Where to Stay
💎 Luxury Resorts
Baros Maldives, Soneva Fushi, Gili Lankanfushi – unmatched privacy, butler service, underwater restaurants, and infinity pools.
🏝️ Mid-Range Escapes
Maafushi, Thulusdhoo – guesthouses and boutique hotels offering comfort, culture, and excursions at a friendlier price.
🏠 Budget-Friendly Guesthouses
Inhabited local islands offer stays that are more affordable and culturally immersive. Ideal for backpackers or long stays.
Top Experiences & Activities
🧜♂️ Scuba Dive at Banana Reef – One of the Maldives’ oldest and most popular dive spots.
🏄 Surfing at Thulusdhoo or Himmafushi – Consistent swells and vibrant surf culture.
🐢 Swim with Turtles at Rasdhoo
🛥️ Island-Hopping Adventures – Visit multiple islands by boat, including sandbanks, lagoons, and uninhabited gems.
🌌 Night Fishing Trips – A peaceful, starlit experience where you catch and cook your dinner.
💍 Romantic Beach Dinners or Weddings – Personalized for every occasion, from proposals to anniversaries.
What to Pack
👙 Light swimwear and quick-dry clothes
🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen (to protect coral life)
🩴 Flip flops or sandals
📷 Waterproof camera or GoPro
🧢 Wide-brimmed hat & sunglasses
📚 Books, power bank, and headphones
💧 Refillable water bottle and basic medicine
🌧️ Raincoat or light shawl if visiting during monsoon
Travel Tips
🧳 Airport Tips:
Velana Airport is small and busy—plan layovers accordingly.
On arrival, you’ll find counters for resort reps, seaplane check-ins, and SIM cards.
🕐 Transfer Timing:
If you arrive after 4 PM, you might need to stay in Malé or Hulhumalé overnight, especially for seaplane-only resorts.
🪪 Visa & Entry:
Maldives offers visa-on-arrival (30 days) for most nationalities, including Indians.