Where is the Maldives Located? Complete Travel Guide to the Maldives Islands

The Maldives is a tropical paradise that has become a dream destination for travellers worldwide. But where is the Maldives located? The Maldives is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean and to the southwest of Sri Lanka and India. This Asian country comprises about 1,200 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls stretching over miles from north to south. The stunning turquoise waters and white sandy beaches that form a part of the beautiful Maldives geography add glamour to this popular tourist destination.

Key Takeaways

• The Maldives is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, positioned 700 km southwest of Sri Lanka and 750 km southwest of India.
• This archipelago consists of 1,192 coral islands grouped into 26 natural atolls, making it the world’s most geographically dispersed country.
• Malé, the capital city, sits at coordinates 4.1755° N, 73.5093° E and serves as the main gateway with Velana International Airport.
• The country spans approximately 90,000 square kilometres of ocean, but covers only 298 square kilometres of land area.
• Located just 1.5 degrees north of the equator, the Maldives enjoys a tropical climate year-round with temperatures averaging 26-31°C

Where Exactly is the Maldives Located on the Map?

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The Republic of Maldives sits in the Indian Ocean and is positioned to the southwest of India and Sri Lanka. The Maldives archipelago is a chain of islands stretching over 500 miles north to south that forms a part of the Asian continent. This independent island, with small coral islands, is known for its beautiful beaches, clean waters and lively underwater environment.

How Far is the Maldives from India?

The Maldives’ position in the central Indian Ocean helps it to maintain close proximity to several major destinations.

Destination	Distance	Flight Time
India (Delhi)	2,700 kms	4 hours
India (Kochi)	709 kms	1 hour 45 minutes
India (Mumbai)	1,200 kms	2 hour

The Maldives Archipelago: Atolls, Islands, and Geography

Where is Maldives?

The Maldives is a unique geological structure formed by a series of coral atolls arranged in a double chain pattern. This arrangement makes it the most geographically dispersed country in the world.

Atoll Formation and Coral Island Distribution

The 26 natural atolls include 1,192 coral islands, of which about 200 are inhabited. Each atoll is a ring-shaped coral reef that surrounds a lagoon, thereby creating the signature turquoise waters of the Maldives.

Land and Water Statistics of the Maldives

• Total area: 90,000 square kilometres (including territorial waters)
• Land area: Only 298 square kilometres
• Average island elevation: 1.5 meters above sea level
• Highest point: 5.1 meters above sea level on Villingili Island

Climate of the Maldives

The Maldives’ position near the equator creates consistent tropical conditions throughout the year, influenced by monsoon patterns and ocean currents. The country experiences two distinct seasons:

• Dry season (December to April): Northeast monsoon brings clear skies and calm seas, which is considered the best time in the Maldives.
• Wet season (May to November): Southwest monsoon creates higher humidity and occasional storms.

How to Travel Between Maldives Islands and Atolls

Where is the Maldives Located?

The Maldives’ scattered geography creates unique transportation opportunities for visitors.

Getting Between Atolls

• Seaplanes: Connect resort islands and provide scenic aerial views
• Speedboats: Serve shorter distances between nearby islands
• Domestic flights: Link distant atolls to Malé
• Ferry services: Provide local transportation for residents

Top Things to Do in the Maldives for Tourists

The islands of the Maldives present some of the best things to do in their mesmerising natural settings and capture tourists’ attention all over the world.

• Diving and Snorkelling Adventures: Coral reefs and abundant marine life.
• Overwater Villas and Luxury Resorts: Exclusive experiences found in a few other destinations.
• Pristine Beaches and Natural Wonders: Powder-white sand and turquoise waters.
• Unique natural wonders: Bioluminescent beaches and crystal-clear lagoons.
• Water Sports and Adventure Activities: Jet skiing, parasailing, surfing and kayaking.

Best Places to Visit in the Maldives Islands

The Maldives is home to some of the most captivating destinations that will transport you to an idyllic paradise. Here are some of the top places to visit in the Maldives:

• Malé City – Malé serves as both the capital city and the primary entry point for international visitors to this nature-rich country.
• Veligandu Island: Pristine white sand under your toes with crystal blue waters reflecting the sun, this island is an idyllic retreat for individuals seeking a tranquil and peaceful environment.
• Hulhumale: Hulhumale is a fascinating blend of civilisation and nature. With a beautiful beach front and bustling cafés, it is a perfect site to see the Maldivian sunset.
• Manta Point: Manta Point offers the chance to swim with amazing manta rays and explore an incredible underwater realm.
• Baros Island: The isolated setting is ideal for a romantic picnic or a peaceful escape from the outside world.
• Bioluminescent Beach: Vaadhoo Island’s spectacular natural phenomena of bioluminescence that sparkles in the dark, creating a wonderful atmosphere that will enchant you on your Maldives trip.

Conclusion: Why the Maldives is a Unique Travel Destination

The Maldives’ geography is one of the world’s most distinctive due to its presence as a scattered archipelago in the central Indian Ocean. This fascinating island nation creates opportunities for exclusive experiences across numerous atolls, each maintaining its own character while sharing the consistent tropical climate. Understanding the Maldives’ location helps in planning transportation, timing visits according to weather patterns, and appreciating the remarkable geographical circumstances that created this extraordinary island nation. Plan your exclusive Maldives Tour Packages or Maldives Honeymoon Packages and unwind in the experiences you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Location of the Maldives

What ocean is the Maldives located in?

The Maldives is located in the Indian Ocean, positioned in the central region between India and the equator.

How far is the Maldives from India?

The Maldives sits 709 km from Kochi, 1,200 km from Mumbai and 2,700 km from Delhi. Flight takes about 2 hours from Kochi and Mumbai, while it takes 4 hours from Delhi.

 Is the Maldives in Asia or considered its own region?

The Maldives is geographically and politically considered part of Asia, specifically South Asia, despite being located in the Indian Ocean away from the main continental landmass.

Why is the Maldives called the world’s lowest-lying country?

The Maldives holds this title because its average elevation is only 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) above sea level, with the highest natural point reaching just 5.1 meters (16.7 feet) above sea level.

Which hemisphere is the Maldives located in?

The Maldives is located in the Northern Hemisphere, though very close to the equator at approximately 3°15′N latitude, giving it consistent tropical conditions year-round.