The very mention of the Maldives conjures up images of a blue sea, white sands, a bright sun and bungalows at the waterfront. Lying just southwest of Sri Lanka, this Indian Ocean archipelago comprises a series of ancient coral reefs that surfaced around the edges of prehistoric volcanos. Those immense structures have since sunk into the ocean, leaving behind islands of incredible beauty and natural splendour. The islands’ beauty and solitude recommend them to honeymooners but the Maldives offer visitors much more than just romance.
The archipelago’s 1,200-odd, low-
lying islands (scattered across the equator in groups of 26 naturally-occurring atolls) are unfortunate victims of climate change. And unless drastic measures are undertaken, environmental pundits warn that by the end of the century, the ocean will swallow up all the islands and Maldives will be wiped off the world map. Perhaps it’s this dire warning that gets visitors from far and wide to arrive on the islands in plane loads almost daily, ready to soak in the local history, culture and unmatched aqua splendours.
At present, a population of 3,40,000 inhabits around 200 islands, half of which have been developed into luxury resorts that offer visitors their own ‘Robinson Crusoe’ getaway, in isolation from the rest of the world.
“I am bored” is the last thing you are likely to hear on the islands. There’s an array of recreational activities at hand, from surfing in the sea to swimming in lagoon-size pools to sun bathing, beach walking, tennis and ping-pong. But it’s the deep sea diving that’s undoubtedly the most exciting activity going. Easy access to countless diving sites, perfect water conditions through the year and an abundance of coral frescos and fish species moving along the nutrient-rich, fast-flowing currents make the Maldives an El Dorado for diving enthusiasts. Divers reach specific locations by boat, jump into the warm water to enjoy a spectacular topography of craggy rock faces, caves, steep drop offs and abrupt overhangs splashed with a kaleidoscope of colour from schools of sweetlips, moorish idol, snapper, barracuda, flutemouth triggerfish and angelfish. There is also a good chance of encountering the Maldives’ legendary big marine creatures like the turtle, manta, wrasse and whale shark.
The visibility underwater is incredible; the clear water is brightly illuminated by sunrays and provides an ideal environment both for divers and underwater photographers.
It doesn’t matter if you have no previous diving experience. All you need to know is swimming. Experienced divers at top resorts like Kurumba, which is Maldives’ first privately-owned opulent retreat, offers hands-on training to anyone keen to test the water beforehand, provided good health is certified. Even children are welcome to participate if they can swim.
Non-swimmers need not worry. They can enjoy the submarine safari by snorkelling which is the first step for venturing into the world under water. Every resort island is typically encircled by a sand-bottomed shallow lagoon, followed by a coral-covered reef, the depth of which increases as you drift into the sea. While good diving sites can be found around the deeper end of the reef, the best locations for snorkelling are the edges where there is plentiful marine life. All resorts provide training for novices and life jackets.
Not all visitors have to dash about diving and snorkelling. Life in the Maldives is good even for those who want to do nothing at all. Indeed, there is sublime pleasure in just lying around on the beach, lazily enjoying the surroundings, with a cool drink in hand. The unadulterated serenity of the place soothes your body, mind and soul. And high-flyers from around the globe land in Maldives just for this.
FACT FILE
Getting There Air India (www.airindia.in) operates direct flights from Bangalore and Thiruvanathapuram to Male. There are plenty of other airline options too, that fly via Colombo from major Indian cities.
Accommodation A good option is Kurumba Maldives (www.kurumba.com.); many of the best dive sites in the region are within a 5-/30- minute boatride from here. Diving and snorkelling gear ican be hired here.
Best Time to visit The weather is perfect throughout the year with the daily temperature averaging 30 degree Celsius.
Visa Check www.maldiveshighcom.in for details
