The Maldives, an independent nation with approximately 564,000 people, is a member of the United Nations (UN), SAARC, the Commonwealth, and other global bodies. Tourism, fishing, and construction drive its economy, which is heavily reliant on foreign currency from tourism. Nearly all household items are imported, and while the local currency is Rufiyaa, the US Dollar is widely used across the country.
Discovering the Maldives Map 2024
Courtesy Google Map
Now that you’ve got a sense of where the Maldives is, let’s dive into the map of all its islands, from local residential spots to resorts and uninhabited gems. With a whopping 1192 islands, finding a specific one might feel like finding a needle in a haystack. But don’t fret! If you know the atoll, your search becomes much more accessible. Scroll down to see the atoll you’re interested in and explore from there. Remember that some islands will be transformed into resorts in 2024, so the map will be updated soon.
Are you planning a holiday in the Maldives? This map lets you scope out the closest islands to your desired destination so you can plan your trips accordingly. And if you’ve booked more than one resort, you can check out the locations of each and imagine the journey ahead. Below the map, you’ll find a list of atolls, and we’re also adding detailed maps for each atoll to make your exploration even smoother.
With 1192 islands to explore, the Maldives offers a wealth of beauty waiting to be discovered. The country is naturally divided into 26 atolls, although the government administers only 20. Look for Kaafu Atoll to find the international airport in Hulhule. This atoll is the heart of tourism, bustling with activity. Other popular spots include South Ari Atoll, North Ari Atoll, and Baa Atoll. Don’t let the term “popular” fool you—every atoll has its charm. Noonu Atoll, for instance, has seen a surge in luxury tourism in recent years thanks to its proximity to many islands.
Remember that sandbanks, though not marked on the maps, are part of the Maldives’ dynamic landscape. They change position seasonally, and due to global warming, some may vanish or reappear over time.
Courtesy Google Map
Atoll names are prominently displayed on the Maldives map, with dotted white lines separating each one. Some parts of the map showcase atolls individually, while others reveal a double-chain formation. During rough weather, the seas around the outer atolls might be choppy, but you’ll hardly notice on clear days.
Looking for a luxury escape? Here are some five-star resorts near Male’ or the airport:
– Taj Exotica: Just 10 minutes from the airport.
– One&Only Reethi Rah: About an hour away.
– Jumeirah Vittaveli: A short 20-minute hop from the airport.
– Velassaru Maldives: Approximately 15 minutes from the airport.
– Sheraton Fullmoon Resort: Also about 15 minutes away.
– Kurumba Maldives: A mere 5-minute journey.
And if you’re seeking a four-star retreat, consider these options near the airport:
– Meeru Island Resort: About 30 minutes away.
– Paradise Island Resort: Approximately 15 minutes from the airport.
– Bandos Island Resort is also about 15 minutes away.
These are just a handful of the many resorts awaiting your discovery. Use the map to uncover more hidden gems across the Maldives!
Exploring the Capital of Maldives: Male
Courtesy Google Map
Regarding the Maldives, the bustling heart is none other than Male’ (pronounced as Maaley), the capital city. You might have it spelled as Male without the apostrophe, but that needs more. It’s Male’ with the apostrophe that captures the true essence of this vibrant city.
Ready to delve into the wonders of Males’? Below is a map to guide your journey through this dynamic capital.
Where is Maldives Located?
Courtesy Google Map
Surprisingly, some still believe that the Maldives are part of another country. In 2023, it’s astonishing that such notions persist. The ‘Republic of Maldives’ is an independent sovereign nation recognized globally by bodies like the United Nations and the Commonwealth. Despite its independence, locals feel the influence of neighboring India is growing, bringing both positive and negative impacts.
Contrary to misconceptions, Maldives is not in Zanzibar, Seychelles, Mauritius, India, Indonesia, or any other country—it’s a distinct nation in the Indian Ocean. Intriguingly, some Indians are unaware of Maldives, while others in their vast country haven’t experienced the sea, showcasing cultural diversities.
The Maldives has an independent judiciary and parliament led by a democratically elected president. The country is divided into 20 atolls governed by local, atoll, or city councils, as per its constitution.
Maldives stands as an independent nation, not under the protection of any specific country. Governed by its president, the government administers the country. The world map clearly depicts Maldives’ geographical separation from other nations.”
Equator on Map
Courtesy Google Map
Maldives, nestled on the equator dividing the North and South Poles, stretches from Fuvahmulah to Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll in the south. Among its 1192 islands, each boasts unique features. Fuvahmulah stands out with exclusive native fish and birds unseen elsewhere. Despite the equator’s presence, the distinguishing factor is the local dialect spoken, varying across atolls like Addu, Fuvahmulah, Gaafu Dhaalu, and Gaafu Alif (Huvadhu Atoll). Each atoll possesses its distinct dialect, creating a tapestry of linguistic diversity in the Maldives. Geography
Maldives comprises 1192 coral islands spanning 90,000 square kilometers in the Indian Ocean. These islands form 26 atolls, often sharing lagoons while some remain isolated. Each island boasts its own house reef, while some atolls feature outer reefs. The Maldives is believed to rest atop inactive super volcanoes, with circular-shaped islands forming atop the rim.
Maldives History
Over 2500 years old, the Maldives boasts a rich history of independence, save for brief foreign invasions. Rulers, kings, queens, sultans, or presidents have governed for over a millennium.
How many islands are there in the Maldives?
Officially, Maldives comprises 1192 islands, with additional reclaimed and artificially created ones. Ongoing land reclamation projects suggest the current count exceeds 1220. Northern atolls like Haa Alif and Haa Dhaalu receive significantly less rainfall annually. Accessible via domestic flights or seaplanes, these areas offer pristine retreats.
Exclusive Private Islands & Villas
Our map showcases private islands as luxury resorts, offering unparalleled privacy and top-tier services. We curate a selection of luxury villas and mansions, ideal for families seeking opulent amenities and personalized attention.
Things To Do in Maldives
Maldives offers many activities, including scuba diving, snorkeling, watersports, inland sports, and excursions. Divers and snorkelers revel in the vibrant marine life, while watersports enthusiasts enjoy banana riding, catamaran sailing, and more. Excursions like sunset fishing, dolphin watching, and island hopping promise unforgettable experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the Maldives located?
The Republic of Maldives, also known as the Maldives Islands, is an independent nation situated in the north-central Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. It is an archipelagic state comprising multiple island collections.
Which countries border the Maldives?
The Maldives, nestled in the north-central Indian Ocean, is a collection of low-lying islands. It shares proximity with India, approximately 600 kilometers northeast, and Sri Lanka, about 645 kilometers northeast. Comprising roughly 1,200 small coral islands and sandbanks, only around 200 of them are inhabited.
What is the main island of the Maldives?
Malé, the bustling urban island,iss the capital of the Maldives. Often overshadowed by other island resorts, Malé holds hidden charms for families and honeymooners seeking adventure and relaxatioe.
Was Maldives a part of India?
The Maldives comprises islands scattered in the Indian Ocean. But is it part of India? Put, no. The Maldives is an independent nation, separate from India and the entire Indian subcontinent.
Thank you for the insightful article on the Maldives! It’s fascinating to learn about the islands’ unique geography and the sheer number of them.
Just wondering, how reliable are the local maps for planning a trip? Given the constant updates, it can be hard to know what’s current. For anyone planning a vacation, it might be worth checking out https://world-prices.com/en/maldives/prices for some price insights, although it’s unsure how spot-on they are these days.
Looking forward to more such engaging reads!