Good Time to Visit
The Maldives have a hot tropical climate, and the temperature rarely falls below 25°C (77°F).They experience a southwest monsoon from May to October, with the majority of rain falling in June and July. The best time to visit is between November and April.
Visitors are advised to bring linens and lightweight cottons throughout the year. Light waterproofs are advised during the rainy season (May to October).
For more information about the Maldivian weather, see Climate in Maldives.
Festivals
Major Islamic festivals are observed as public holidays, including Ramadan, the month of fasting. Independence Day is celebrated on 26 July, with processions and brightly decorated floats. Republic Day, on 11 November is another important public holiday, with brass bands and parades in Male.
Public Holidays
The following table shows the public holidays celebrated in Maldives:
| Date | Holiday |
|---|---|
| 1 January | New Year's Day |
| 26-27 July | Independence Day |
| 3 November | Victory Day |
| 11 November | Republic Day |
| Variable* | Islamic New Year |
| Variable* | National Day |
| Variable* | Mawlid al-Nabi (Birth of the Prophet) |
| Variable* | Embracing of Islam Day |
| Variable* | Ramadan begins |
| Variable* | Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan) |
| Variable* | Hajj Day |
| Variable* | Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice) |