Enamoring beaches, azure waters, thrilling activities, and exotic weather, Maldives tourism is adorned by such charming features and a lot more. The tourism of this island country boasts of a plethora of Maldives tourist places that lure backpackers, honeymooners as well as families. Visit the Maldives to experience the tropical charm of these islands in the Indian Ocean. For decades, the breathtaking place has carried its engrossing elegance by attracting tourists from all parts of the world, and majorly from India.
Maldives | Best Time To Visit
The Maldives is a beach destination that is sun-kissed and has weather that is year-round suitable for a trip. However, the best time to visit the Maldives is between November and April, i.e., during the dry season. December to March marks the peak tourist season or the best season to visit the Maldives as, during this season, rainfall is almost negligible, and the weather remains extremely pleasant. This period is also regarded as the best season to visit the Maldives for the honeymoon as couples get an opportunity to enjoy all types of activities due to ideal weather conditions. Though, being the busiest season in the Maldives, it is also the period when beach resorts in the Maldives are expensive.
Take a look at our brief guide that helps one decide on the best month to visit the Maldives.
May – October (28°C to 29°C)
With accommodation available at quite a fair rate, less crowd, and an opportunity to indulge in some water activities, like scuba diving and surfing, this can be a great time to visit the Maldives for a budget tour.
Besides that, one can also observe key events, like Independence Day along with Ramadan.
November – April (25°C to 29°C)
And, here comes the best time to visit the Maldives in between the months of November and April. With pleasant weather and mild rainfall, people can make the most of their time while enjoying sunbathing. Moreover, one can also grab a chance to experience the sea life amongst the reefs, which are in plenty.
What’s more? With festivals, such as Victory Day, Republic Day, and National Day, the journey can be quite fun-filled.
Famous Festivals in the Maldives
Apart from the above-mentioned festivals, visitors can also observe a few other prominent festivals, like Eid-Ul-Adha, Kuda Eid, and Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday.
Climate in Maldives
Summer Season in Maldives
The months from December to April forms the summers of Maldives. It is the best time to visit the Maldives for a honeymoon. The duration between December to April is when the island experiences dry weather. This is the time when there are little or no rain. December to April is the best time to visit the Maldives for holiday. This is the time most of the crowd gets attracted to the Maldives and you may find every place crowded. Sunbathers and swimmers enjoy this for all the possibility to experience the beach life in the city. The Maldives in December is a very popular destination to visit due to Christmas and New Year holidays. Towards the end of summer, like the Maldives in April, the island doesn’t experience any rainfall which makes it perfect to enjoy water sports.
Monsoon Season in Maldives
The monsoon season in the Maldives is from May to November. This is the time when it is an off-season for tourists. The prices are low and you may find fewer people in the hotels. It is the time when one can enjoy scuba diving and surf in optimal conditions during the monsoon in the Maldives. It is the time when the rainfall is very heavy and the storms move through the archipelago fast.
It can be a suitable period to visit the Maldives for the ones who enjoy scuba diving and surfing. However, it is, definitely, not the best time to visit the Maldives for holiday with the family as there may not many things to do for kids.
Winter Season in Maldives
Due to its location near the Equator, there are no winters per se in the Maldives. The country experiences only dry and wet seasons throughout the year.
How To Reach Maldives From India
Wondering how to reach the Maldives? The best way to travel is by air for those looking up how to go to the Maldives. Delhi, Mumbai, Kochi, etc are the main airports to board an India to Maldives flight. Depending on layover time, it takes approximately 7 to 11 hours to reach Male Airport from Indian cities. Male Airport (MLE) is the main point of entry for international flights in the Maldives. The capital city of Male is facilitated by an international airport that connects this island nation to other parts of the world. The Maldives is a country of dreams and a popular honeymoon destination. Fua Mulaku is in the southern province of the country. Kudahuvadhoo is located in the south Nilandhoo Atoll. It has one of the mysterious mounds known as habitats and an old mosque. Mirhi Island houses an exclusive reef and a pristine beach. There are 36 resorts on this Island. Another major tourist attraction in the Maldives National Museum is Sultan Park which was earlier a palace. Velana International Airport is the major destination for those looking to fly to the Maldives.
If you are thinking about how to reach the Maldives from India, then you can choose from the air and sea routes. The Maldives is a Tropical Island nation in the Indian Ocean. It is made up of 26 ring-shaped atolls which in turn are made up of more than 1000 coral islands. Owing to the terrain of the land, there are no railway facilities in the Maldives. Hence, if you are wondering how to reach the Maldives by train, then it is better to search for alternate options. It may take up to 3 days to travel from India to the Maldives by ship. November through March is an ideal time to take a cruise from India to the Maldives which usually departs from Mumbai or Kochi.
Wondering how to get to the Maldives by sea? One can also reach this place by the sea route. In the Maldives, the water taxi is famous. These taxis are reliable, fast and very convenient. Speedboats and steamers are also functional in the country. Hulhumalé ferry terminal gives the traveler an option of the ferry as well. There is a ferry or a water taxi available every few minutes. Ferry services are available for intra atolls to travel and inter-atoll travel as well. Water taxis are inexpensive and have a fixed rate to reach a particular destination.
For those who aren’t worried about Maldive’s vacation cost, seaplanes are also available. It costs $70 per person to take a tour of about 30 minutes. One should go for this to see the islands from a different angle. Also, there are cabs on the islands which are not expensive and are convenient as well. It is advisable to walk around the islands.
Tourist Places In Maldives
The Maldives is one of the most famous exotic islands in the world, a getaway to paradise. Boasting some world-famous exotic white sand beaches, thousands of popular islands, soothing spas, enchanting underwater life, music, food, and adrenaline-pumping sports, there is no dearth of places to visit in the Maldives. These exhilarating places form the key tourist attractions in the Maldives, and hence, make it a perfect getaway to rejuvenate your soul.
Sun Island Resort and Paradise Island Resort are the best places to stay in the Maldives for a honeymoon. Couples planning a romantic holiday should visit places like Reethi Beach, Hulhumale Beach, Lily Beach, and Bandos Beach are some of the best places to visit in the Maldives for honeymoon. Adorned by white sands, palm trees, soothing weather, and watersports, beaches in the Maldives provide a perfect setup for a romantic date, and hence, are undoubtedly ideal places to visit in the Maldives for couples. Apart from these romantic places, there are also a variety of attractions for family travelers as well as solo travelers.
Grab a tourist map with all the best places to visit for a flamboyant retreat in the arms of nature. Islands like Male, Maafushi, Biyadhoo, Milaidhoo, Baros, and Mirihi are some of the best tourist places.
Male Island
The capital city of Malé is home to the best place to go in the Maldives such as Sultan Park, Friday Mosque, Artificial Beach, and National Museum. Tourists can explore several historical monuments scattered around downtown Male. The island also offers plenty of shopping opportunities and places to enjoy the nightlife.
Addu City
Having a heart-shaped structure, as seen from the skies, Addu City is not only one of the must-visit tourist attractions, but also one of them for a honeymoon. Boasting the ancient history of Maldives, the city is stretched across a group of six islands that are connected by causeways. Decked with coconut trees, sandy beaches, and the surrounding pearl blue waters, Addu city owns picturesque landscapes, enough to lure visitors. The Mosque of the Judge, located here, will give one a glimpse of the ancient historic Sultanate rule. Also called Backpacker’s Paradise, Addu City served as the British secret naval base during 1941.
Hithadhoo
A district in Addu City, Hithadhoo is the second-largest island in the Maldives. Known for its diving sites, it remains one of the top places of interest for couples in the Maldives. Gan International Airport is about 14 km from Hithadhoo.
Maamigili Island
The Island can be reached from Male via a 45-minute seaplane ride. About 750 meters long and 500 meters wide, the island is famous for pristine coral reefs, white-sand beaches, and Loma Resort. The luxury resort also houses a museum with contemporary local artworks.
National Museum
Opened on the National Day of the Maldives, the museum displays an interesting and well-labeled collection of historic artifacts which reflect the national heritage.
Mostly crowded during the Tourist season, Rasdhoo boasts of the most famous dive points in the Maldives, a must to explore underwater life. Though a small island, Rasdhoo is the first choice of visitors and one of the best tourist places in the Maldives. The manta ray locations here are quite famous points to spot marine creatures like sharks, devil fish, clownfish and turtles, etc.
One of the best places to visit is the Hulhumale Island, whose alluring beauty will leave you baffled as it is a man-made and not a natural island. Though designed by engineers, this artificial island has a natural aura owing to the lush green tree plantations, sparkling white sand, and the surrounding blue waters, unlike Male, its sister island. Hulhumale also houses a mosque, crowned with a massive dome of gold. Apart from Hulhumale, other famous beaches like Sun Island Beach, Gann, and Fulidhoo are the must-visit tourist attractions in the Maldives to get lured by the beauty of this paradise island.
Other Maldives tourist spots include the religious place of Hukuru Miskiiy, Maldives oldest mosque, built during Ibrahim Iskandar I’s reign in 1658. It is a must-visit place to discover the ancient past of Maldives. The magnificent architecture of the mosque is credited to the coral stones used to build the entire structure. The inner architecture comprises wood carvings and lacquer work by experts. Also famous as ‘Friday mosque’, it has a minaret that summons Muslims to conduct prayers five times daily. There are also other beaches like Fuvahmulah, Dhigurah, Villingili, Alimatha Island, and Dhangethi, which are famous tourist attractions.
A few famous places to see comprise world-famous resorts, spas, and more. Opt for a loner’s escape, a getaway with friends, or your honeymoon, Maldives tourist attractions won’t disappoint you.
Must Read – Top Romantic Resorts in the Maldives
Things to Do In Maldives
A small archipelago of gorgeous islands, situated in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives are a dream destination for every tourist who claims to be a water baby. Besides, its rich shoreline offers some of the best things to do in the Maldives. The azure waters of this island country provide ground for a variety of water sports in the Maldives like scuba diving, and snorkeling, parasailing, surfing, and boating. Going on beach walks and taking couple’s spa sessions are notable things to do in the Maldives on honeymoon.
Beaches with white sand, waves bringing in turquoise waters, and plenty of sunshine, Maldives is nothing short of paradise. Solo, as well as family travelers, can also quench their thirst for adventure during their holiday by indulging in these top 10 things to do in the Maldives:
Nightlife: There are several bars and pubs in the Maldives to make the most of the night. Underwater Party at Subsix, White Night Party at Kuredu, and Jazz nights & live bands at Kurumba are some of the happening things to do in the Maldives at night.
Snorkeling: The country is head and shoulders above any other place for snorkeling experiences. Baros Maldives, W Maldives, Dhevanafushi Maldives, and Soneva Fushi are some of the best resorts for snorkeling in the Maldives. Tourists can explore colorful coral reefs and underwater life. Another must-visit, The Huvafen Fushi Underwater Spa & Resort is the first spa to be built underwater. The uniqueness of this resort lies in the fact that it offers its guests serene views of marine life as the spa is built underwater. One can avail spa treatments while gazing at the pristine marine life, making it a perfect way to rejuvenate both mind and body. This resort is situated on Nakatchafushi Island in the northwestern region of Male. This resort also offers luxurious villas and bungalows that overlook crystal waters and is an absolute must-visit.
Scuba Diving: The diving point of Manta is a haven for divers who are comfortable with currents and drift diving. The place comes to life during the southwest monsoon season, which falls between May and November. Looking for more of an adrenaline rush? An agency called Blue tribe diving conducts diving tours on Maafushi Island. It operates out of the Constance Moofushi Resort. This is located on the west of Ari Atoll. Ari Atoll has waters that are extremely rich in marine flora and fauna and offers a wide variety of coral reefs, fish, sharks, and more. Also, this is one of the rare spots of the world where a whale shark can be spotted. This island is a great place for tourists who are passionate about diving.
Shopping in the Maldives: Dive Shop and Water World sells the latest diving equipment. STO Trade Center is a popular spot to buy household products, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Male Local Market is a famous place to bargain for decorative pieces, miniature boats, local snacks, and souvenirs.
Banana Reef: Named after its shape, the Banana Reef is situated in North Male Atoll. This coral reef has a world of colors and shapes hidden beneath it. Another must-visit is the Artificial Beach. Situated in the east of Male Island, this Artificial Beach is the only beach where people can swim. It is a relatively less crowded beach and is more of a place for cultural and entertainment activities like carnivals and live music. The beach also has several eateries nearby like Dine more and Oxygen Cafe.
Male Fish Market Maldives: Fishing is a part of the lifestyle. Located soul of Male near the inner harbor on the north side, the Fish Market is a great spot to buy fresh catches. Tuna is the most popular fish, although there are several other fish available. The best time to visit is either early morning or between 3 and 4 pm.
And last but not the least, North Male Atoll is an island where maximum water sports are concentrated. In partnership with the Sheraton Full Moon Resort & Spa, Extreme Watersports is a water sports agency that conducts water sports like wakeboarding, surfing, jet skiing, catamaran sailing, etc. Visitors can also go on a dolphin-spotting cruise here. All in all, this island is heaven for all the water babies and adventure junkies who want to give water sports a go!
Information About Maldives Tourism
Travel guide answers to all your Maldives travel-related questions. The Republic of Maldives is located in the Indian Ocean and is composed of coral islands and ring-shaped atolls. Find useful information about the place like it is also the smallest country in Asia in terms of its size and population. It is a popular place for tourists all over the world and is beautifully decorated with turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, and white sandy beaches. Out of the 1200 islands, the majority are uninhabited and only a few are open to tourists. The following tourist information on the guide with details to deeply engrave the trip in your heart.
Before landing, one must not forget to carry the tourist map. This assists every tourist in covering each and every sightseeing place. One can also gain a detailed knowledge of the routes that lead to the final destination. The tourist information can be obtained from the official site of Maldives tourism for the betterment of tourists and visitors.
Stay in the Maldives
The Maldives is such a place that can be visited all through the year. The best time to visit is from the month of December to April and also from May to August. While the exotic and sun-kissed beaches are the main attention of all, there are certainly other things that tourists desire. These depend on the climatic and weather conditions of the island. The summer season in the Maldives is generally between the months of December to April. This period is also the peak timing for the tourists. It is ideal for visitors since there is scanty or no rainfall during this time. On the other hand, the May to August period marks the rainy season. Heavy rainfall does take place that creates difficulty for tourists. Hence, it is well termed as offseason. For budget travelers, this is the right time to visit the country. Amazing deals are provided by the hotels and resorts to encourage these tourists.
The main international airport is the Male International Airport. This airport is situated on Hulhule Island which is in close proximity to the Male capital island. At present, it is the only airport that provides tourists with international flights for their convenience. Seaplanes, dhonis, and helicopters are all available from this busy airport. Internal flights also operate for the purpose of transferring people to the atolls. As such reaching the resorts takes no time. Some facilities provide by Hulhule International airport are restaurant facilities, money exchange facilities, duty-free shops, etc. Ferry services are there to bring tourists to the resorts and facilitate the sightseeing purpose. Both luxurious, as well as budget-friendly accommodation places, are available. The warm welcome and hospitality of these resorts is something that creates a long-lasting impression in the minds of the visitors.
The Maldives is truly endowed with the beauty of nature. Apart from the shiny beaches, a long chain of coral islands, and blue lagoons, it is also rich in various water sports. Some of the major tourist spots are; the national museum in Male, The Grand Friday Mosque, the pristine Sun Island, the best diving site Banana Reef, the perfect vacation spot Alimatha Island, the colorful HP Reef, the romantic Fihalhohi Island, and much more.
Food in the Maldives
The dishes are a perfect blend of Sri Lankan, Arabic, and Indian blends. One can try the delicious seafood and the mouth-watering curries and soups.
Languages and Festivals in the Maldives
The most widely spoken language is Dhivehi. Other languages include English and in due course, it has also become the medium of teaching in schools. So you can be sure that most people will understand some parts of English.
Some of the festivals of Maldives are Independence Day, Eid, and Islam Day. The people enjoy these festivals with immense enthusiasm and joy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maldives Travel Tips
Q – How safe is the Maldives from the coronavirus outbreak?
A – The Maldives detected a case of coronavirus in the month of January but it turned out to be negative. Since then, the island nation has strengthened its security and takes preventive measures. No more cases have been detected till now.
Q – Do people tip in the Maldives?
A – Usually, 10% is charged extra as a service tax, and above that, it is not necessary to give a tip. If someone wants to still pay a tip, then they can do that generously.
Q – What can you buy in the Maldives?
A – If you want to go shopping then these are a few items to buy there:
- 1. Traditional Maldivian mats are called Thundu Kunal
- 2. Sarongs
- 3. Lacquer work
- 4. Dhonis.
Q – Can you drink alcohol in the Maldives?
A – Being an Islamic nation, there is a restriction on the consumption of alcohol locally. But the water resorts and liveaboards have a license to sell alcohol. This is one of the essential travel tips for people visiting the island for the first time.
Q – Can I use Australian dollars in the Maldives?
A – No. Though the national currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa, USD dollars are accepted across the island except for the local islands. So make sure you have the valid currency with you all the time.
Q How many days are enough for the Maldives?
A – 5-7 days are good to explore the Maldives and have an amazing time in the luxurious resorts there. You can go for more or fewer days but the ideal trip includes 5-7 days.
Q Which is the best time to visit the Maldives?
A – November to April is the best time to visit. The peak season is from December to March so one can plan a trip before or after it to skip crowds.
