More Details : History | Geography | Culture & People | Climate | Marine Life | Festivals

Location
Southwest of Sri Lanka, on the equator.

Geography
A total of 1,190 coral islands forming 26 major atolls streching 820km north to south and 120 km east to west. Only 202 islands are inhabited, 87 are exclusive resort islands.

Climate
It is generally warm and humid, sun shines all year through. Average temperature between 29 & 32 degrees Celsius.

What to wear!
Casual wears are used more often. T-shirts and cotton clothing are most suitable. In all inhabited islands it is recommended that women wear modest clothing without baring too much.

Population
According to 1998 estimates the population is about 270,000. Origin of Maldivians are lost in antiquity, but history reveals that the islands have been populated around 3,000 years ago. Travellers on the Silk Route and Indus Valley Civilisation were the Early settlers.

Language
The language spoken in Maldives is 'Dhivehi' and is used in all parts of the Maldives. English is widely spoken by Maldivians and visitors can easily make themselves understand getting around the capital island. In resorts, a variety of other foreign languages are spoken by staff. These languages include German, French, Italian and Japanese.

Currency
Maldivian currency is 'Rufiyaa' 'and Laari'. The exchange rate for US Dollar at the time of writing is MRF 11.82. 100 laarees make 1 Rufiyaa. Rufiyaa bank notes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 500. Coins are in denominations of MRF 2.00, MRF 1.00, 50 larees, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 laaree. The most commonly used foreign currency is the US Dollar. Payments in resorts and hotels can be made in most hard currency in cash, travellers' cheques and credit cards. Most commonly used credit cards are American Express, Visa, Master Card, Diners Club, JCB and Euro Card.

Electricity
The electric system is 230-240 Volts -AC