With a regular influx of the affluent, renowned, and glamorous, the Maldives has earned its reputation as a glamorous destination. However, this archipelago in the Indian Ocean is also accessible on a budget of ₹1 lakh. The key is to choose wisely to uncover the delights of this tropical paradise composed of 1,192 coral islands.
Must-See/Do: Malé, one of the world’s smallest capital cities at just 2.2 square miles, boasts attractions like Republic Square, The National Museum, Sultan Park, Male Fish Market, and Hukuru Miskiiy, also known as the ‘Old Friday Mosque,’ dating back to 1656 – the country’s oldest mosque.
For adventure seekers, scuba diving and snorkeling are a must, but always go with an instructor and check their license. Explore the Maldives Victory, a shipwreck from 1981. Dolphin spotting, submarine tours, sandbank snorkeling, sunset cruises, and Dhoni boat cruises offer unique experiences.
Indulge in a spa day, with the underwater spa at Huvafen Fushi resort being a standout option. Most resorts offer various activities, including water sports, parasailing, and lessons on coral reef protection.
Must-Eat: Discover the local flavors with dishes such as Garudhiya (fish soup), Kukulhu riha (braised chicken in a coconut-based sauce), Masi huni (Maldivian breakfast with smoked tuna, grated coconut, lemon, and chili), Handulu bondibai (rice pudding), Kulhi boakibaa (Maldivian tapas), Fihuna Mas (whole grilled fish), and Bajiya (Maldivian samosa).
What to Buy: Traditional Maldivian souvenirs, decor items made from coconut shells, sarongs, Thundu Kunaa (Maldivian mats), jewelry, lacquer products, wicker mats, and dried fish.
Where to Buy: Explore Majeedhee Magu, Male International Airport, Male Local Market, STO Trade Centre, Centro Mall, Chaandhanee Magu, Oevaali Art Shop, and most resort stores.
Packages:
- Arena Beach Maafushi Hotel Package (3 nights/4 days): ₹88,000+ (including return flight) – makemytrip.com
- Memorable Maldives Holiday (3 nights/4 days): ₹91,000+ (including return flight) (makemytrip.com)
- Kaani Palm Beach Vacation (4 nights/5 days): ₹80,000+ (including return flight) – makemytrip.com
- Maldives Alimatha Aquatic Resort (4 nights/5 days): ₹76,000+ (excluding return flight) – thomascook.in
- The Hive Beach Hotel Package (4 nights/5 days): ₹57,000+ (including return flight) – expedia.co.in
- Summer Beach Maldives Package (4 nights/5 days): ₹38,000+ (including return flight) – expedia.co.in
- Return Flight (Economy): Mumbai-Male-Mumbai from ₹17,000+, Delhi-Male-Delhi from ₹20,000+.
Visa: Indian nationals receive a free on-arrival visa for 90 days, with an option to extend for another 60 days for INR 3,045.
Good to Know:
- Currency: 1 Maldivian Rufiyaa = INR 5.43
- Language: Dhivehi or Maldivian (official), English widely spoken in tourism/hospitality.
- Local Transport: MTCC’s Comprehensive Transport Network connects islands; hotels often offer transfer services.
- Connectivity: Velana International Airport (MLE) requires ferry, seaplane, or speedboat transfers. Yacht, seaplane, ferry, and speedboats available.
- Wi-Fi: Most resorts offer free Wi-Fi.
Also Read
Exploring the Beautiful Blue Asia: Maldives I Maldives Tour Itinerary
Security/Safety Tips:
- Maldives is an Islamic republic; public observance of religions other than Islam is illegal.
- During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public outside holiday resorts.
- Strict prohibition on drugs/narcotics; no bringing pork into the country.
- Exercise caution with belongings on beaches; crime levels are low within resorts.
- Alcohol is only available on resort islands and should not be taken outside.
- Illegal to take tortoise-shell jewelry, coral pieces out of Maldives.
- Flash flooding can affect low-lying islands during heavy rain.
- Public displays of affection beyond hand-holding are frowned upon.
