Maldives

The Maldives is an archipelago of 1,192 coral islands grouped into 26 natural coral atolls in the Indian ocean. Coral islands measure not more than 1.8 meters above sea level. The Maldives are one of the most geographically dispersed as well as the smallest country in Asia.

With Over a 436,330 population of this small country only 200 islands are inhabited. The Maldives, located on top of a vast underwater mountain range have around 1190 islands and sandbanks. The pearl string like islands covers a land area of no less than 298 km2.  All the islands are encircled by a lagoon blessed with crystal clear water.

The Maldives is known to locals in their native language (Dhivehi) as Dhivehi Raajje. With its white sand beaches and turquoise crystal blue sea and the scenic coconut palms surrounding everywhere, the Maldives are portrayed by travel companies as a tropical paradise.

These islands are protected by a reef structure, housing one of the most exclusive and spectacular underwater life.