The Maldives. They are the picture of beauty, serenity, and paradoxically, adventure! It is a dream destination. With powdery sands, cyan blue sea, and lapping Indian Ocean waves, the only word that describes it further is Paradise. The best time to visit the Maldives is anytime between November to April.
The archipelago country hosts a number of resorts, but the new trend of local guesthouses has opened the gates of this paradise to all. Beautiful mosques, busy markets, and heavenly beaches await you on this trip of your lives. Read on for all the information related to Best Time To Visit The Maldives and other related information like an island guide and more!
Also Read– Best Beach in India- Goa
Also Read– The offbeat island destination in India- St. Mary’s Island, Udupi.
Table of Contents
Contents:
1. | How To Reach Maldives | 2. | Best Time To Visit the Maldives |
3. | Important Tips for Travel | 4. | Adventure Sports Activities |
5. | Things To Do | 6. | Places to Visit |
7. | Guide to the Islands |
How To Reach Maldives:
The island nation is one of the most popular holiday destinations. Being an island country the best way to travel to the country is through the air. But if you are looking for an exotic vacation you can even opt for the private cruise liners.
By Air:
Air is the best way to reach the country. The beautiful country is ever ready to surprise you with its abounding treasures of natural beauty. Air travel is a nice way to experience this beauty. The country has 4 International Airports-
- Gan International Airport
- Hanimaadhoo International Airport
- Velana International Airport
- Maafaru International Airport.
Direct flights can be availed from South-East Asian countries like India, Sri Lanka, China, and other European countries, and Dubai, etc. Book your flight to the Maldives here.
Do remember that taking alcohol, pork, or any kind of pornography inside the country is prohibited. Your bags will be strictly checked for these. Also, while on your way out, do not take sand, shells or corals with you. This is also prohibited.
Visa Policy:
The Visa policy in the country is lenient and everybody is offered a visa for 30 days on arrival. You can further extend the visa for 90 days and you would require your travel documents and proof of sufficient funds for the extension.
Local Commute:
Since this is a beautiful island country, the local commute is best done by boats, Dhoni, and Seaplanes. Travel inside the islands may require a Taxi.
Seaplanes:
An exotic affair, Seaplanes are planes that fly at really low altitudes and your key takeaways are mindblowing views of the landscape and fast commute. Two of the main operators are- Trans Maldivian Airways and Maldivian Air Taxi.
Do remember that these do not operate at night.
Boat:
Speedboats and ferries are ideal for commuting within the island. You can take Dhonis as they call the boats used by locals here. Dhonis are charter boats that one can book for one day.
These are best booked beforehand to avoid any last-minute hassles. Boats are also available in all sizes and shapes. A decent Dhoni can be booked at a price of Rf 1000 to Rf 1500 for a day. Do remember to bargain.
Also, do remember that even boats do not travel after night.
Taxi:
The taxi service is not present in most islands. Very few islands like Male and Addu have the service.
Best Time To Visit the Maldives:
Wondering about the best time to visit the Maldives, then it is between November to April. This is the dry season and also the peak tourist season. Also, the temperature is pleasant round the year.
You can check the Maldives weather here. To decide on when to come to the country read our best time to visit the Maldives guide below:
Note: Being situated on the Equator, the country has just two seasons namely summers and monsoons. There are no winters.
Summer:
The summer months start from December and go on till April. The temperature is pleasant and ranges between 25 to 29 degrees Celsius. This season witnesses little or less rainfall, thus it is the best season to visit the country.
Also, you can easily engage in various activities in and around the islands at this time of the year. So this is the best time to visit the Maldives weather-wise.
Since, this is the peak tourist season, the resort and other service fares are higher. But, anyways a vacation here is worth every penny spent.
Monsoons:
May to November is the monsoon time here. Monsoons here are heavy and bring storms with them. The temperature is more or less the same as summers and ranges between 28 to 29 degrees Celsius.
Certainly, this is not the best time to visit the Maldives but definitely the cheapest time to visit the Maldives. It may be the worst time to visit the Maldives for you if you do not like the rains much.
Also, this is the offseason as the conditions are not favorable. But it is the ideal time for scuba divers and surfers. Although there is not much to do for kids. Thus not a great time for families. So, if you want to ask, is August a good time to visit the Maldives then, our answer is, that it depends on what you want to do here.
TrueLinkz opinion on Best Time to Visit the Maldives:
According to us, the question of when to go or when not to go to the Maldives depends on your purpose to visit the islands. If you are a scuba diver or a surfer go between May to November else if you are on a honeymoon or with family or just want to avoid rains, then go between December to April.
Important Travel Tips and General Information:
This country is a dream vacation for everybody, so go through this list of information and travel tips to make your tour hassle-free and truly one to remember for the rest of your lives.
Visa:
- The country offers visa on arrival for 30 days, and this can be extended to 90 days provided you have proof of sufficient funds. The documents required for visa on arrival are:
- A passport that is valid until 6 months from the date of travel.
- A valid return ticket
- Proof of stay in a hotel or resort in the country
- Proof of funds for the expenses. Typically 150 USD per person per day is regarded enough.
Packing:
- Be Sun ready with lots of sunblock and broad hats. Don’t forget a nice beachwear and an Umbrella.
- A bottle of water as its quite humid there.
- Choose light cotton clothing for your trip.
- Also, pack flip flops and a pair of walking shoes.
- Last but not the least pack critical medications along with there prescriptions.
Local Etiquette:
Public display of affection is not common here and despised by the locals. Also, homosexuality faces resistance here. Although there are no laws against it and no discrimination is done against same-sex couples anywhere.
Safety Tips:
- Public toilets are available at 2 MVR. Also, cafes and restaurants have clean toilets.
- Keep water at hand always as it gets hot here and sunstroke is always a possibility.
- As we all know, snorkeling is great but be wary of the corals as they are poisonous and a cut can take longer to heal.
Wi-Fi:
The average internet speed here is 3.2 MBPS. Most resorts and cafes have Wi-Fi service. But do remember to check for Wi-Fi availability while booking the resort/hotel.
Charging Adaptors:
Do remember to carry your charging adaptors while traveling. 230 Volts, 50 Hz with sockets and plugs C, D, G, J, K, and L are supported here.
Time Zone:
The country falls in the UTC +05: 00-time zone.
Major Religion:
The major religion here is Islam.
Area code:
The area code of the country is 960.
Basic Words in Local Language:
- Hello -> Kihineh
- How are you? -> Haalu Kikineh
- My name is -> Aharenge Namkee
- Yes -> Aan
- No -> Noon
- How much is this? -> Meethi kihaavarakeh?
- Thankyou -> Shukriyaa
- Goodbye -> Dhane
Adventure Sports Activities in the Maldives:
1. | Snorkeling | 2. | Scuba Diving |
3. | Fun Tubing | 4. | Parasailing |
5. | Surfing and SUP | 6. | Dolphin Spotting |
Snorkeling:
The snorkeling is the most beautiful experience one can get in the country or even the whole world. Snorkeling here goes to another level as you pass through vibrant colors of corals and fishes. The beauty of marine life will amaze you. Time flies by as the experience is inked in your memory for a lifetime.
Book your snorkeling experience near Male/ Hulhumale here:
Scuba Diving:
The country is the premier destination for Scuba Diving on Earth. If you haven’t given it a shot yet, this is your chance. Apart from being a beautiful experience, it is relatively easy too. Also, there is no place more inviting than the waters here.
They are warm and you don’t need a wetsuit. Also, you do not need any prior experience and it is quite affordable too. The country is famous for its Stingrays, Whale Shark, and Sea Turtles. Do enjoy a dive and take back beautiful memories.
Book your tour near Addu city at Viator.com.
Fun Tubing:
Fun Tubing is one of the best adventure sports to do in the Maldives. It is 10 minutes full of screaming, laughter, and fun. This does not require any special skills. Just wear a life jacket and sit in a tube boat and scream and laugh as you are pulled through the sea by a boat. It may be a short ride but enough to make your whole day.
Parasailing:
Parasailing is the ideal adventure sport to do in the Maldives. Set sail and admire the sea from above. The beautiful atolls, the color of the sea, and the sea breeze above. It is a breathtaking adventurous activity of 15 minutes. The place is equally beautiful either underwater or high above from the sky.
Book your spot at Wave Surfing/ Kite Surfing/ Wind Surfing here.
Surfing and SUP:
Surfing is best done during the monsoon season. Only, the waves are for experienced surfers.
And for those who cannot enjoy surfing, we have an attractive bargain, the SUP. SUP is Stand Up Paddle. It is really enjoyable and you can see colorful fishes and corals as you paddle above the smooth clear water. The sport is a sort of easy, chilled, and fun experience.
Dolphin Spotting:
Dolphin spotting is definitely one of the most memorable things to do in the Maldives. Wait for the sunset and set out in a boat on the lookout for pods of Dolphins. Dolphins here are one of the most playful ones and this has got to be the most mesmerizing experience you can collect here.
You can book your spot at snorkeling and dolphin sunset cruise at:
1. Viator.com
2. Citatis.com
Things to Do in The Maldives:
1. | Enjoy the Bodu Beru Show | 2. | Dine in an Underwater Restaurant |
3. | Watch a movie under the stars | 4. | Stay in the unique overwater bungalows |
5. | Relax in an underwater spa | 6. | Enjoy your night at a bioluminescent beach |
7. | Shop at Majeedhee Magu | 8. | Dive with the Whale Submarine |
Enjoy the Bodu Beru Show:
Bodu Beru is a dance and music show that is so deeply integrated within the culture of the country, that you just cannot miss it on a trip to the country.
The Bodu Beru literally means the ‘Big Drum’. These drums are made from coconut wood and the drum heads are made of Manta Ray skin or Goatskin. The drum beats start slow but get fast as they proceed. Make merry in the beautiful ambiance created as you dance and clap with the beat.
Almost all the resorts arrange for this beautiful show every night.
Dine-in an Underwater Restaurant:
The country is one of the most exotic tourist destinations. Taking this exotic experience to the next level are the many underwater restaurants. It is a mesmerizing experience with fishes swimming all around you. You are never going to forget this one in a lifetime experience.
So, here is the list of underwater restaurants in the country:
- Ithaa
- Subsix
- 5.8 Undersea Restaurant
- The Sea Restaurant
- M6m at Ozen
Ithaa:
Ithaa is the first all-glass underwater restaurant of not only the country but the whole world. The exotic dining experience cannot be complete without their Caviar, Maldivian Lobster, crispy mascarpone, truffle dumplings, and short loin of Lamb. Do not forget to bring your dinner at a close with 57% dark chocolate mousse or mango sorbet.
Subsix:
Subsix is the first underwater nightclub of the island. It has an interior theme based on the sea. The nightclub has it all from sea anemone chairs to shell-shaped bar to coral shaped chandeliers and ocean blue lighting completes the interior. Surely, the setting gives you the feeling that you are actually a part of the sea.
5.8 Undersea Restaurant:
Another underwater restaurant, it has a sumptuous menu and is one of the best places to have your underwater dinner.
The sea Restaurant:
The sea restaurant is another level underwater restaurant. It gives you options for swimming, darting, and dancing while you enjoy your dinner.
M6m at Ozen:
It is a great restaurant at Ozen and gives you an incredible dining experience that you will never forget. With great seafood cuisine, it is a great place to dine at. And what’s more, you can dine free at the restaurant if you are staying for more than 4 days at the resort.
Watch a movie under the stars:
Ever wondered how it would be like to watch a movie with your partner at a beach! Yes, a movie under the stars, sand, and waves. This dream-like experience is available at Paradiso Beach at SonevaFushi Resort.
Just order popcorn and munchies and enjoy the movie with special sound effects of the lapping waves. You can also order cocktails.
Stay in the unique overwater bungalows:
I must say the first choice of stay for anybody is the overwater bungalows. Many resorts offer overwater bungalows. These overwater bungalows have spacious rooms, a tiny open pool, a sundeck, and even a Jacuzzi. You will never feel like leaving the room.
It is one of the best things to do in the Maldives for couples. The bungalows truly make the country a premium romantic destination.
Relax in the underwater spa:
The country is known for the luxurious and romantic experiences it offers. And amongst them is the massage. Do indulge in sheer luxury at one of those spa centers and relax as expert masseurs rub you for almost an hour and a half. Keep your to-do list for the day empty as you would want some relaxing moments with your partner after that.
Book your spa at Olhuveli Beach in South Male Atoll here.
Enjoy your night at a bio-luminescent beach:
The bio-luminescent island country is a paradise in so many ways, you can’t even count. One of the rare phenomena is the bioluminescent plankton lighting up the beach. You are left gaping as the blue plankton lights up the dark beach. It is a sight to stare in wonder and a must collect experience.
But the rare phenomena requires you to be at the right place at the right time. Here is a tentative list of months and corresponding beaches, planktons visit- Kuredu in November, Reethi in October, Fihalhohi during August and September, and Veligandu during January.
Shop at Majeedhee Magu:
Majeedhee Magu is a shoppers paradise situated in Male. You can find everything from trendy clothes to Gadgets to pettiest items to local crafts being sold here. Literally, everything like perfumes, handbag, electronics, clothes, cosmetics, watches, and even jewelry can be shopped here.
Shopping is not the only reason why you should be here, but an array of restaurants like Juways Café and Restaurant, Dinemore central, and Seagull Café also serve delectable delicacies to gorge on.
Note: The shop timings here are from 9 am to 11 pm.
Dive with the Whale Submarine:
Don’t go by the name, it is not meant for watching whales. But, it is used to give a 45 minute underwater tour, that takes you to a depth of up to 120 feet below water level. The submarine is completely safe and the crew and other staff are competent.
Aquariums are cliché, but this submarine takes the whole experience of watching underwater wildlife to a different level. It’s an ultimate experience to watch the underwater world in their natural habitat and at complete ease.
The creatures that can be encountered on the ride are Sting Rays, Manta Rays, Eels, Whale Sharks, Giant Groupers, and many shark species. You will also get to see a large number of species of Corals. The list does not end here, you will also be able to spot Turtles and schools of brightly colored tropical fish.
Places to visit in the Maldives:
1. | The Grand Friday Mosque | 2. | The Old Friday Mosque |
3. | National Museum | 4. | Muliaage |
Grand Friday Mosque:
The Grand Friday Mosque is a sight to behold and the largest mosque in the country. It stands proudly in Male. The mosque is formally called Masjid-Al-Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al. It draws many pilgrims as well as architecture lovers.
The mighty main prayer hall inside the mosque can accommodate up to 5000 worshippers at a time. Completely plain in terms of decoration the mosque is still very elegant. It is made completely of white marble and the golden dome has now become the identity of the island.
The mosque also has intricately carved wooden panels and doors, specially woven carpets, and sparkling chandeliers.
Dress code to visit the mosque: Gents should wear full trousers and ladies must wear a long skirt or dress.
Old Friday Mosque:
The Old Friday Mosque also called Hukurumiskiiy is situated in Male. This old mosque dates back to 1656 and is made up of coral stone on which are chiseled Quranic script and beautiful decoration.
The interiors are beautiful and the lacquer work is superb. Its highlight is one long panel that dates back to the 13th century. This panel displays the introduction of Islam to the country.
This mosque is actually built on the foundations of an old temple which faced towards the west (the setting sun) and not northwest. So a striped carpet laid in the prayer hall, at an angle, shows the correct direction to worshippers.
Note: You need prior permission from an official of the Ministry to visit the mosque. But, most of the staff working here are officials of the ministry, so you do not need to worry about that. All you need is to be dressed in respectable clothing.
National Museum:
Timings: 10 am to 4 pm from Sunday to Thursday
Price: Adult- Rf 100 & Children- Rf 20
The National Museum may have been built in a building gifted by China, but it has an impressive array of displays that showcase both the history and present of the nation.
Its display begins downstairs with items on weaponry, religious paraphernalia, and household wares. But the cherry on the top is the many engraved pieces of wood-engraved in Thaana and Arabic which tell the story of the conversion of the country to Islam in 1153.
Above are displayed a much more modern collection like some excellent pieces of lacquer work boxes, antique technology like the country’s first computer. Another fascinating item is the skeleton of a 6m long Longman’s Beaked Whale, which is not yet sighted alive in the ocean.
Muliaage:
Muliaage or Muleeaage currently serves as the President House, but initially, it was built for the Sultan, but he was overthrown before he could move to his new palace. After that, the palace served as a center for government offices, and finally, it was made the president’s residence once the country was declared a Republic in 1953.
At the eastern end of the building is the tomb of Abul Barakat Yoosuf Al Barbary, who also happens to be the man who brought Islam to the country. This place is called Medhu Ziyaarath.
Guide to the Islands:
The archipelago nation consists of 1200 islands and 22 atolls. Of these only 200 islands are inhabited. Every island is unique. Some are owned entirely by resorts and some have local resident colonies.
It is up to you to choose if you want to stay in one of these resorts or go for local guesthouses. Each has its own charm. If you are searching for the best Maldives offseason deals then click here. The Maldives in August or Maldives in July is the offseason time. These are the times when the Maldives hotels give huge discounts.
Some main islands of the country are:
1. | Male Island | 2. | Hulhumale Island |
3. | Maafushi | 4. | Utheemu |
5. | Maradhoo | 6. | Veligandu Island |
7. | Banana Reef | 8. | Alimatha Island |
9. | Halaveli | 10. | Kuredu |
11. | Gan | 12. | Kunfunadhoo Island |
13. | COMO Cocoa Island | 14. | Mihiri Island |
15. | Baros Island | 16. | Rangali Island |
17. | Kanuhura Island |
Male Island:
Male is the capital city of the island country. It has a number of sightseeing options like the Old Friday Mosque, Grand Friday Mosque, Muleeaage, the National Museum, the Art Gallery, Fish Market, and many more places.
Surely these are enough to keep you busy for the day. You can even swim in the Artificial Beach! What’s more, the island has an international airport, so you can rest or visit these sites before proceeding to your resort.
Hulhumale Island:
The Hulhumale island is another island with an airport called Velana International Airport– a doorway to this paradise on Earth. Another densely populated city that is always bustling with activity. It sits next to the capital island Male.
It is not as great for sightseeing but the airport is a really busy one. Still, for sightseeing, it has a glass-topped mosque and planned beautiful walkways above the Indian Ocean.
Maafushi:
Maafushi is one of the offbeat islands of the country. These islands are living stories of the devastation caused by the 2004 Tsunami. Consequently, the last one and half decades have gone by in recreating the jetties and industrious sailor huts.
But the best development that has actually taken forth the island and sustained the families is the opening up of local guesthouses. This has not only been a boon for the island locals but also for budget travelers that can now flock to this beautiful island nation.
Of course, stunning beaches, swaying palm trees, and homey coffee shops await you at this small paradise of an island.
Utheemu:
The Utheemu is another very beautiful island but what makes it stand apart from the other islands in the golden history that it has witnessed.
The much-revered leader Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu took birth here. He was the one who drove Portuguese out and saved the national sovereignty in the 16th century.
Here the lapping waves and stunning beauty of the beaches come with the complimentary legendary story that the home of Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu still bears. Yes, this island flaunts the beautiful home of the leader. This home is called Utheemu Ganduvaru.
Maradhoo:
The Maradhoo is thin and long in shape much like a finger. Due to being thin, the island has narrow beaches. The cuisine here is quite spicy and naturally rich in seafood.
If on Maradhoo, a stroll down the Link Road is a must. It is lined up with various coffee shops and sandwich vendors. Do try some lip-smacking snacks here.
Veligandu Island:
Veligandu Island flaunts some great resorts. It has several opulent sea-side and over-water villas and suites to match varied budgets. The island is the definition of beauty. From the ethereal sunset to exotic cocktails and lapping waves, this island is definitely recommended for honeymooners and newly-weds. The best time to visit the Maldives for honeymoon is from December to April.
Banana Reef:
Banana Reef is the best place on Earth to try diving and snorkeling. The corals and fishes together put up an outstanding display of colors. This exotic combination of the serenity of underwater life and the adventurous feat of diving will leave you enthralled.
The shape of the banana reef resembles that of a banana, thus the name. It lies in the North Male Atoll near Hulhumale island. The north-eastern side of the reef houses some shallow caves, which are fun to explore.
Note: Carry a compass to fully enjoy the dive. Also, do watch out for currents, which can have a whirlpool effect. This is necessary in order to avoid unpleasant experiences.
Alimatha Island:
Alimatha Island is a nice tourist spot, especially for adventure junkies. This beautiful island houses some good luxury cabanas, and some even better scuba diving spots.
The place is always brimming with enthusiastic divers. These divers come here to enjoy pretty coral groves and sea walls. The reef is always full of schools of fish and the visibility in the clear water is just marvelous.
Halaveli Island:
Halaveli Island is another great island for tourists with families. Surrounded by nothing but water and sea waves, it is the place for rejuvenation and lifelong memories. The island houses Constance Halaveli Resort which has 57 water villas and some island resorts too.
Its rooms are complete with all the luxe amenities like a satellite television that shows you and children all their favorite shows. That’s not all, the room also has an iMac Entertainment System.
Like all other family resorts, Constance Halaveli also has a Kids Club with activities like Paddle Boats and swimming pools. They also have a restaurant named Jahaz and bar serving the choicest delicacies and drinks.
Kuredu:
The Kuredu is a boomerang-shaped island in the central north area of the Maldivian archipelago.
This whole island is taken by a single resort. And the most beautiful bamboo shacks and those much-famed over-water bungalows await you here.
Kuredu is one of the most advanced sites for scuba diving and snorkeling. There is a strong current and high waves make it harder to clearly see Manta Rays and schools of banana fish. But that’s not all, the island also flaunts its own full 9 hole golf course.
Gan:
Gan island is visited mainly because it houses the nation’s second-largest airport. But other than that it is not an exception to the beautiful beaches of the country. Previously, during World War II, Gan served as a military airbase. Inhabitants of Gan were shifted to Feydhoo. Today, Gan has chosen tourism above its military importance.
In addition to this, Gan has small fishing restaurants and small sandy beaches that are usually empty and devoid of visitors.
Kunfunadhoo Island:
Kunfunadhoo island is the most indulgent affair on the Maldivian archipelago. Large timber villas with cocktail decks that rise over the nearby jungle cover, a couple of infinity pools, swim-up bars, and a private sand beach where you can arrange for a date at sunset with the waves of the Indian Ocean playing the background music.
The arrangements are plush and extravagant. It’s an ideal place to indulge in an exotic and luxurious experience.
COMO Cocoa Island:
COMO Cocoa Island is one of the most popular islands in the country. This island houses many resorts and the cherry on the cake is the presence of 33 water villas on the island. What’s more, you can indulge in spa therapy at the island, while your kids can enjoy the Kids’ Club.
Another great part is that if you stay in these resorts, diving and snorkeling site House Reef, is not much far.
Mihiri Island:
Mihiri Island is a relatively smaller island with 30 over-water villas and some island accommodations. The specialty of these islands is that they are meant for complete detoxication, that is, they don’t have television sets. But, trust me you do not even need it.
Just take a stroll on the beaches, indulge in a spa treatment, or have a romantic dinner at sunset. If that does not satiate you then let your adventurous side take charge and take adventure activities like diving and snorkeling. These activities are available here on the island.
Baros Island:
Baros Island is an island away from the crowd and is great for couples. It is a relatively small island with many over-water villas and also beach resorts.
Because of the beautiful corals, sun-kissed beaches, cyan blue waters, and elegant natural beauty, this is a highly rated resort and is really popular. There are many bars and restaurants in the vicinity.
Simply relax your muscles in the spa or spend a great time with your partner at your private villa.
Rangali Island:
Rangali Island is the best place to stay when traveling with family. It is owned by the Hilton Hotels Group, and they have named the resort, the Conrad. This island is a complete package and it offers activities like snorkeling, diving, island hopping, fishing, dolphin sighting, and more.
The list does not end here, the resort also sports a Kids’ Club, an infinity swimming pool, spa, and indoor sports activities.
Kanuhura Island:
Kanuhura Island is another exotic island of the archipelago country. This island is occupied by a resort of the same name- Kanuhura. If you are traveling with family then this resort forms the ideal place to stay. The resort is a luxurious affair with all the luxe amenities and beautiful décor.
Luxurious amenities like a private outdoor shower and facilities like a private villa host and spa are available at the resort. Many facilities in the Kids’ Club are also available, like beach volleyball, indoor games, tennis, etc.
Also Read– Best Beach in India- Goa
Also Read– The offbeat island destination in India- St. Mary’s Island, Udupi.
That was all! We hope you liked our guide. With all the bounties that await, the best time to visit the Maldives is now! So book your tickets and let’s fly to the Maldives!