Maldives Map
Maldives map geography is in fact very interesting. The Maldives is a collection of around 1,200 islands that cross the equator just below India to the slight west, opposite Sri Lanka. Part of the interest is due to the fact that this is in essence an underwater mountain range. The tops of the mountains have formed what are called atolls. These are circular coral reefs formed by the tips of the mountains protruding through the water.
This also means that practically every part of the Maldives is above sea level with plenty of shallow waters surrounding the islands. Within the atolls are sand bars, some elongated and some semi circular, as well as lagoons. These 1,200 islands are clustered within 19 different atolls of which only approximately 200 of the islands are inhabited, while 89 are dedicated to resorts, each resort having their very own island.
Where on the Maldives map is the capital?
The capital of the Maldives is an entire island called Malé. This is located in the Malé Atoll just above the centre of the Maldives islands cluster. While the city has grown due to the increase in tourism and the resulting administrative activities there have been many projects attempting to reclaim the sandy, low lying areas to expand the island.
The airport as well as administrative areas and shopping centers are all located on this small island making even the furthest island less than 2 hours away by boat.
Before making your trip to the Maldives, map out your route in the northern atolls such as the Alif atoll, not only is there another airport for better access to the uppermost islands, you will find resorts such as The Angaga Resort and Spa and Athurugau Island Resort which are both more or less 85 kilometers from the northern airport.
The Kuredu Island Resort, a very common choice for visitors to the Maldives, can be found in the Llaviyari Atoll so it is relatively close to the airport and can be accessed by boat or even by sea plane. Getting to see the Maldives from the sky is an incredible experience, just wait until you step onto the island and feel the freedom and crystal clear beauty of the luxury and style offered by this very popular destination.
When you are looking around for a great place to stay on the Maldives map, be careful not to skip over the South Kaafu Atoll where you will find the very well known Anantara Resort. A mere 19 kilometers from the airport, the boat trip out to this Indian Ocean treasure is an experience all of its own. The islands have gained their popularities with newlyweds and couples for the great selection of romantic offerings including private beaches and top notch service.
While there are many great attractions on the islands, the Maldives map shows you just how broad an area they expand and how rich the sea life is not to mention the lushness of the vegetation on land. Its situation is perfect for great weather all year round and an opportunity to visit must not be missed.