The Maldives, a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean. The country is made up of a chain of 26 Atolls, with around 1,200 coral islands (give or take, the islands are always changing!) The formation of the Maldives is a story that dates back millions of years.

The Maldives sits on a submarine ridge that runs from the southern tip of India to the Chagos-Laccadive Ridge. The islands were formed through a combination of volcanic activity and coral growth.

First stage of formation
The geological history of the Maldives is divided into three main stages. The first stage was the volcanic stage, which occurred around 60 million years ago. During this period, volcanic eruptions created a series of small islands, which later became the foundation for the coral reefs.

Second stage of formation
The second stage was the reef growth stage, which began around 30 million years ago. During this period coral reefs began to form around the volcanic islands, creating a unique ecosystem. The Maldives has some of the most diverse coral reefs in the world, home to hundreds of species of fish and corals.

Third stage of formation
The final stage was the coral island stage, which began around 10 million years ago. During this period, the volcanic islands sank, and the coral reefs continued to grow, eventually forming the Maldives we know today. The islands are now surrounded by shallow lagoons, which are home to a variety of marine life.

Today, the Maldives is a popular tourist destination, known for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and luxurious resorts. The marine life is like nowhere else, attracting divers and underwater enthusiasts from all over!