Maldives, a world class summer destination, is mostly to make it to a lot of people’s bucket list. The island nation is spread across the mighty Indian Ocean with its 1000s of islands and numerous Atolls. The island nation offers dreamscapes of an ideal summer holiday; clear blue waters, sunny skies, silky white sand beaches and relaxing accommodations. Tourists visit this tropical paradise for leisure or adventure, either way they have a fulfilling time in Maldives which they treasure for the rest of their lives. Maldives is a jewel of the crown of Asia, where honeymooners, couples, thrill seekers flock round the year. Being a tropical nation, the island experiences variations in the warm climate every year.
The average temperature in Maldives is between 29 Degree Celsius and 32 Degree Celsius. The climate is mostly warm, humid with occasional showers during the months of May to December. Although, the best time to visit Maldives is between the months of January to April when the island receives no rainfall and the skies are clearer than ever.
Maldives during Peak Season : (January to April)
A good day in Maldives looks like : clear skies, hot and dry climate with little to no humidity. The dry climate makes it possible to enjoy the beaches, outdoor activities and seaplane transfers in Maldives. There is clear visibility with optimum chances of getting that beautiful tan you were looking for. The turquoise blue waters during this season are safe to take a dip where one can explore beautiful coral reefs and interact with marine life.
Places like Baros, Sun Island, South Ari Atoll, North Male Atoll are some of the best places to visit in Maldives during the peak season. Banana Reef and the HP Reef are famous tourist attractions in Maldives that receive a substantial amount of tourist traffic regardless of seasons.
The outdoor restaurants, cafes by the marina and street shopping are best experiences during the peak season as there are no showers hindering your Maldives itinerary.
A surprising number of Indian tourists flock to Maldives from the month of December. Maldives is a popular honeymoon destination for the nearby countries. Hence a lot of tourists from nearby south asian countries visit Maldives for their honeymoon. India observes a large number of weddings in the month of December, making it the best time to visit Maldives from India. The resorts are water villas that offer a romantic getaway for the honeymooners, while some of the beaches offer candle light dinner and movies under the starry sky.
If you are travelling to Maldives during the month of December, experience the lively Maldivian festivals like the Fisherman’s Day and Mawlid, also globally recognized as Prophet Muhammad’s birthday. There are fun carnivals all around the country during these festivals offering the tourists to join in on the Maldivian cultures and traditions.
Some essential things to carry during your visit in Maldives in peak season are sunscreen, hat, sun glasses etc.
Be aware that the Republic of Maldives is predominantly a Muslim country and hence carrying pork meat, tobacco, alcohol, religious books and other illegal drugs are not allowed.
The prices of hotels, resorts and water villas in Maldives vary according to the seasons hence check the prices thoroughly before booking.
Maldives during Off Season (May to November)
Due to its location near the equator, Maldives receive plenty of rainfall during these months. The month of September receives the most rainfall of all the months, making it the wettest month of the year. The conventional image of a “summer holiday” destination is wiped out from Maldives during the rainfall and storms. The skies are cloudy, seas are turbulent and the sands are not as silky during the wet season.
The seaplane rides may not be as picturesque as they are in the peak season. Although, for adventure seekers, this is the best time to surf in Maldives. The waves are strong and vigorous making the surfing experience even more thrilling. Although entering the turbulent seas may not seem like a great idea, the surfers are advised to adhere to the authorities.
Islands like Fihalhohi, Huvahendhoo are one of the must visit places in Maldives during off season. The lush green forests, mangroves, bushes and coconut trees attract honeymooners and families with kids. The tourist traffic is fairly low during this season, however some tourists still choose to enjoy the beauty of Maldives as is. The tourists during the off season rather engage themselves in experiencing the cultural, historical and gastronomical activities. They can opt to enjoy exquisite multi cuisine restaurants or visit the museums and art galleries.
Being a Muslim country, Ramadan in Maldives is a big deal. The month of Ramadan offers you the best time to explore the authentic Maldivian cuisine. The government offices in Maldives work for certain hours during the month of Ramadan. The tourists are advised not to breach the social norms like engaging in PDAs or wearing indecent clothing in public areas.
Either way, both seasons in Maldives have something to offer to the tourists. People who seek rejuvenation and peaceful experiences may choose to visit during the off season when there are less people around. People seeking all round enjoyment and expect to engage in adventurous water sport activities in Maldives, visiting in peak season would be a viable option. However, for people who are planning to visit Maldives for the first time, the month of April would be an ideal time to do so. The climate is pleasant and the panoramic ocean views are not blurred by heavy rains or storms. If you are taking a Maldives Vacation during the wet season, do carry umbrellas, raincoats, rainy sandals/footwear and light fabric clothes which dry faster.
Famous Maldivian dishes to try :
For obvious reasons, the staple food of Maldives consists of fish, curry, rice, coconut, local spices, vegetables and chicken.
- Gulha
- Fish Curries
- Mas Huni
- Saagu Bondibai
- Reef Fish cutlets
- Masroshi
- Aluvi Boakibaa
- Rihaakuru
- Boshi Mashuni
- Sai (Maldivian Tea)
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