An enchanting land of water and beaches - The Maldives - a dream destination famous for its beautiful white beaches and breathtaking underwater scenery. There are 1190 islands spread across the Indian Ocean and circled into 26 natural atolls. They boast rich cultural traditions, a history of kings and queens, pageants, feasts and festivals, their own language and script.

The Maldives is situated in the South West of Sri Lanka, on the equator. The numerous coral reef islands, 1,190 in total, form an archipelago of 26 natural atolls (groups of neighboring coral islands). These 26 atolls are organised into 19 administrative atolls with the capital island of Male' established as an entity of its own forming the twentieth division.

Maldives has warm climate throughout the year, determined by the monsoons. However, being on the equator, the monsoons are mild and not as defined as in neighboring countries. Of the two monsoons, the south most monsoons from May to October, brings more rain and wind. The northeast monsoon, from November to April, is the dry season with very little wind.

History reveals that the islands have been populated for over 3,000 years ago. Early settlers were travelers on the Silk Route and from the Indus Valley Civilisation. Inherently warm, friendly and hospitable by nature, it is easy to feel comfortable and relaxed with a Maldivian.

A population of little over 200,000 people is spread over the islands with over a quarter of them living in Male’, the capital.

Islam is the main religion of Maldives. It is perhaps the only country with a 100% Muslim population. Islam was introduced around A.D.800, and the moderate form practiced in Maldives has remained virtually unchanged.