Amazing Facts about Maldives

We did a thing! We made efforts to visit Maldives since we already were in Asia (since airfare deals to Maldives from either Malaysia or Sri Lanka are very attractive). SO we did it!- and we explored not only resorts but also locally – we visited and walked around Malé (the capital city), we walked around Hulhumalé, local beaches, rode local bus and ferries and we will definitely be back to explore more.

But – before we go to any destination – we gather facts and learn about the countries that we are visiting.

Here are 20 amazing facts about the Maldives:

1. Archipelago of Islands: The Maldives is made up of around 1,200 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls, stretching over approximately 90,000 square kilometers in the Indian Ocean.
2. Lowest Country: It is the lowest country in the world, with an average ground level of 1.5 meters (4 feet 11 inches) above sea level, making it highly vulnerable to rising sea levels.
3. Unique Geography: The Maldives has the flattest terrain of any country in the world, with no rivers or mountains, just pristine beaches and lagoons.
4. Rich Marine Life: Home to over 2,000 species of fish, including the majestic manta rays and whale sharks, it is a diver’s paradise.
5. Bioluminescent Beaches: Some beaches in the Maldives glow at night due to bioluminescent plankton, creating a magical “sea of stars” effect.
6. Underwater Cabinet Meeting: In 2009, the Maldivian government held an underwater cabinet meeting to raise awareness about climate change and the threat of rising sea levels.
7. Tourism Hub: Tourism is the largest economic activity in the Maldives, contributing nearly 28% of the GDP and over 60% of the country’s foreign exchange receipts.
8. Resort Islands: Many islands are privately owned and developed into luxury resorts, each occupying its own island, offering exclusive and secluded experiences.
9. Overwater Bungalows: The Maldives popularized the concept of overwater bungalows, which provide stunning views and direct access to the turquoise waters.
10. Maldivian Language: The official language is Dhivehi, which has influences from Arabic, French, Portuguese, Hindi, and English.
11. Oldest Coral Reef: The Maldives’ coral reefs are among the oldest and most diverse in the world, dating back millions of years.
12. Bodu Beru: A traditional form of music and dance called Bodu Beru is central to Maldivian culture, featuring drumming, singing, and dancing.
13. Islamic Republic: The Maldives is an Islamic republic, and its constitution stipulates that all citizens must be Muslim.
14. Capital City: Malé, the capital city, is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, covering an area of just 5.8 square kilometers.
15. Historical Sites: The Maldives has several historical sites, including the Hukuru Miskiy (Friday Mosque) in Malé, built in 1658 from coral stone.
16. Banned Substances: Alcohol and pork products are banned for locals but are available to tourists in resort islands.
17. Protected Areas: There are several marine protected areas in the Maldives, aimed at conserving its rich biodiversity.
18. Fishing Tradition: Fishing is a traditional activity and a vital part of the Maldivian economy, second only to tourism.
19. World’s First Underwater Restaurant: The Maldives is home to the world’s first all-glass underwater restaurant, Ithaa, located at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island resort.
20. Manta Ray Season: The Maldives is one of the best places in the world to see manta rays, particularly during the monsoon season from June to November.

These facts showcase the Maldives’ unique beauty, rich culture, and environmental significance.