The Maldives was long a sultanate, first under Dutch and then under British protection. It became a republic in 1968, three years after independence. Located in Southern Asia and consists of a group of atolls in the Indian Ocean, south-southwest of India.

Population: 359,008 (July 2006) Climate: Tropical; hot, humid; dry, northeast monsoon (November to March); rainy, southwest monsoon (June to August). Terrain: Flat, with white sandy beaches . There are 1,190 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls (200 inhabited islands, plus 80 islands with tourist resorts); archipelago with strategic location astride and along major sea lanes in Indian Ocean.

Tourism: Sun, sand and sea, a thousand islands, stunning lagoons with different depths and dramatic shades of blue and turquoise, dazzling underwater coral gardens; a totally perfect combination for the ideal natural tropical holiday destination.

Visas: Free 30 days Visa upon arrival for all visitors. No prior visa is required to enter the Republic of Maldives. Entry permit will be granted to visitors on arrival at designated ports of entry, based on the immigration requirements.

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