13 Facts About Maldives | Religion, Cultural And Flattest Country

The Maldives is a real paradise on earth, a true gem among all the island destinations. It has more atolls than you can shake a stick at, crystal-clear waters that will knock your socks off, beaches so pristine they will make your jaw drop, and dive sites teeming with marine life that will blow your mind.

If you're stepping on this world-renowned island destination for the first time, brace yourself for a new ball game beyond its stunning shores. Here, we present interesting facts about the Maldives that serve as a driving force for tourism.

List Of 13 Facts About Maldives

With its history as deep as the ocean and landscapes as varied as the colours of the rainbow, you'll never be left high and dry when it comes to finding excitement in the Maldives. So, buckle up and get ready to have your mind blown by some seriously unknown facts about the Maldives that will leave you wondering why you haven't heard of them before.

1. Maldives is the Island Nation

The geographical features in the Maldives are a tapestry woven with a chain of 26 coral atolls, embracing over 1,000 islands. Amongst these remarkable islands, around 200 are inhabited, while others remain untamed or exclusively designated for luxurious resorts. Every island is a jewel in the crown of the Maldives, showcasing its captivating diversity. From luxurious hideaways to lively local hubs, each one beckons you to dive deep into the vibrant tapestry of Maldivian culture.

2. Maldives is the Flattest Country on Earth

Tucked away in the southwest corner of Sri Lanka, the Maldives stands tall and proud, claiming the world's flattest country title. With its ground level barely reaching up to a mere 1.5 metres (4.9 feet) above sea level, the archipelago stands out as a real underdog on the world stage.

3. Maldives Has A Distinct Allure Of Its Pristine White Beaches

Unlike many other beach destinations, the breathtaking beaches of the Maldives are as pure as the driven snow. The shores boast soft white sands, a gift from Mother Nature herself, untouched by human hands, creating a paradise straight out of a dream.

Also Read : best islands in maldives for honeymoon

4. Islam Holds The Status Of The Official Religion In The Maldives

Steeped in the cultural highlights of the Maldives, the Islamic faith embraces the nation, with the sun of Sunni Islam shining brightly as its official religion. Islam is deeply ingrained in the fabric of Maldivian existence, shaping their way of life from the roots of their culture to the branches of their customs and traditions. Visitors to the Maldives should follow the local customs, including dress codes and religious practices.

5. Maldives Is A Coral Paradise

With the remarkable geographical features of Maldives, this place has gained popularity for its awe-inspiring coral reefs, harbouring a diverse and extraordinary array of marine life. Enthusiasts of snorkelling and diving are treated to the captivating sight of vibrant coral formations, the company of schools of tropical fish, and exhilarating encounters with majestic creatures such as whale sharks and manta rays.

6. Maldivian Currency Reflecting Cultural Heritage And Intricate Design

The Maldives has its currency, known as the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR). It features a fascinating design with intricate patterns and images that reflect the country's rich cultural heritage, including traditional Maldivian boats called "dhonis" and the national emblem.

Also Read : famous dishes of maldives

7. Maldives Made Waves In Global Diplomacy By Hosting The World's First Underwater Cabinet Meeting

In a groundbreaking moment, the Maldives made history by hosting the world's first underwater cabinet meeting. This fascinating trivia about the Maldives showcased the nation's commitment to environmental stewardship and sparked global attention. Symbolising the urgency of climate change, the underwater gathering emphasised the Maldives' vulnerability to rising sea levels.

8. The Maldives is experiencing a slow submergence

This island nation is walking on thin ice when it comes to climate change, with its average ground level barely keeping its head above water at just 1.5 metres above sea level. As the tides of the sea keep on climbing, the Maldives and its charming islands face the challenging truth of gradually sinking, sparking a pressing demand for worldwide efforts to tackle climate change and safeguard nations in need.

9. Maldives Hosts Most Marine Turtle Species

Serving as a crucial sanctuary, the Maldives is home to a diverse array of marine turtle species. The pristine waters of the Maldives attract several turtle species, such as the Green turtle, Hawksbill turtle, and Olive Ridley turtle, showcasing the extraordinary biodiversity thriving within the Maldives' marine ecosystem.

Also Read : beaches of maldives

10. The Iconic Maldivian Boat

The Maldives is famous for its traditional boat known as the "dhoni." Maldivians have used these graceful wooden vessels for centuries for fishing and transportation. Today, they are also popular for leisure activities such as sunset cruises and diving excursions, providing a unique and authentic way to explore the islands.

11. Maldives has the Biggest Whale Shark Population

The Maldives is a diver's paradise, known far and wide for its spectacular underwater adventures. In these parts, you'll stumble upon colossal whale sharks, mainly wandering around the reefs near Sun Island.

12. Maldives Has The Radiance Of Equatorial Sunlight

With its idyllic location near the equator, the Maldives is blessed with the radiant embrace of equatorial sunlight. This unknown fact about the Maldives adds to the allure of the Maldives, enticing visitors with the promise of endless sunshine and a truly heavenly escape.

Also Read : sunrise of maldives

13. Maldives Has A Rich Cultural Heritage

The Maldives boasts a rich cultural heritage celebrated through traditional music, dance, art, and craftsmanship. The unique cultural highlights of Maldives are influenced by Arab, Indian, and African traditions, resulting in a captivating blend of customs and practices.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Facts About Maldives

Q1. What are some interesting facts about the Maldives?
A1. Some interesting facts about the Maldives are:

The Maldives is the smallest Asian country in terms of land area and population.
It comprises a chain of 26 coral atolls, which are composed of more than 1,000 coral islands.
The Maldives has the lowest average ground level of any country in the world, with its highest point only about 8 feet (2.4 metres) above sea level.
It is the flattest country on Earth, and the Maldives have no mountains or rivers.
Maldivian culture blends South Indian, Arab, and African influences, reflected in its cuisine, music, dance, and traditional dress.

Q2. Can you provide information about the geography and location of the Maldives?
A2. The Maldives is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka. The country comprises more than 1,000 coral islands that makeup 26 coral atolls. These atolls cover about 800 kilometres (500 miles) from north to south. The land area of the Maldives is about 298 square kilometres (115 square miles), making it the smallest country in Asia in terms of both land area and people.

Q3. How many islands make up the Maldives?
A3. The Maldives is composed of more than 1,000 coral islands. These islands are spread across 26 natural atolls and grouped into administrative divisions. Out of the total islands, around 200 are inhabited by local communities, while the remaining islands are primarily used for tourism or are uninhabited.

Q4. What is the official language of the Maldives?
A4. Dhivehi, also known as Maldivian, is the official language of the Maldives. Dhivehi is an Indo-Aryan language closely related to Sinhala, the language spoken in Sri Lanka.

Q5. Can you share any unique cultural or traditional aspects of the Maldives?
A5. The Maldives has a rich cultural heritage shaped by its unique geographical location and historical influences. Here are some unique cultural and traditional aspects of the Maldives:

Bodu Beru: Bodu Beru is a traditional music and dance form in the Maldives. It features a group of drummers, dancers, and singers who create rhythmic beats using large drums and perform energetic dances.
Dhoni: The traditional Maldivian fishing boat, known as a dhoni, is an iconic symbol of the country. Dhonis were historically used for fishing and transportation and are still seen today, though modern versions are often motorised.
Traditional Cuisine: Maldivian cuisine is influenced by South Indian, Sri Lankan, and Arab culinary traditions, including dishes with fish, coconut, and rice. Garudhiya (fish broth), Mas Huni (grated fish with coconut), and Rihaakuru (a fish-based thick paste) are popular traditional dishes.
Unique Festivals: The Maldives celebrates several unique festivals such as Eid al-Adha, Islamic New Year and the National Day of the Maldives.
Traditional Dress: The traditional dress of the Maldives is called the "libaas” made from handwoven cotton fabric. It consists of a long-sleeved shirt, a sarong-like garment for men, and a long dress called a "feyli" worn with a headscarf for women.

Q6. What is the currency used in the Maldives?
A6. The currency of the Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR). The currency is further divided into subunits called laari, with 1 Rufiyaa equal to 100 laari. However, U.S. dollars are widely accepted in most tourist areas, and major credit cards are also commonly used.

Q7. Are there any famous landmarks or attractions in the Maldives?
A7. Yes, the Maldives is known for its stunning natural beauty and offers a variety of attractions and landmarks. Some famous ones include Male, Hulhumale, Ari Atoll, Baa Atoll, Vaadhoo Island, and Alimatha Island.

Q8. Can you tell me about Maldives' marine life and coral reefs?
A8. The Maldives boasts diverse marine life, including over 1,100 fish species, 187 coral species, and other marine organisms. Its vibrant coral reefs are home to colourful fish like angelfish, butterflyfish, and clownfish. Larger marine species can also be encountered, such as manta rays, whale sharks, sea turtles, and reef sharks. The reefs face threats but are protected through conservation measures and sustainable tourism practices.

Q9. What popular water sports or activities are enjoyed in the Maldives?
A9. The Maldives offers a wide range of water sports and activities for visitors to enjoy. Some popular ones include Snorkelling, diving, jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing.

Q10. How does the Maldives contribute to sustainable tourism and conservation efforts?
A10. The Maldives recognises the importance of sustainable tourism and conservation efforts to protect its fragile environment and unique biodiversity. Here are some ways in which the Maldives contributes to these efforts: