Joanna James
The Maldives, a tropical haven that lies amidst the azure Indian Ocean, is a destination that never ceases to enthral. It’s made up of mesmerising atolls, which are a gateway to a world of natural beauty and marine wonders each with something new to discover. Read on to find out more about the top five atolls in Maldives to experience.
Interestingly, the Kaafu Atoll is made up of other atolls such as Gahaafaru Atoll as well as the Male Atoll which consists of the North and South Male Atolls. The Male Atoll is also home to the capital, Male, where you will find some of the key attractions in Maldives; these include the Old Friday Mosque, the Grand Friday Mosque, the National Museum, and the Male Fish Market. You will additionally find private island resorts to enjoy holidays here along with vibrant coral reefs and fish that can be seen when snorkelling and diving. Those looking to explore underwater wonders can head to sites like Banana Reef and the Maldives Victory wreck.
For avid divers, the Lhaviyani Atoll is a true treasure trove. The Shipyard dive site, one of the most famous in the Maldives, is a sunken wonderland filled with two wrecks; they are home to marine life such as Napoleon wrasse, nurse sharks, butterflyfish and more along with hard and soft corals. For cultural insights, travellers can head to inhabited islands like Maafilaafushi, Kurendhoo and Hinnavaru where one can find out about traditional life and livelihoods. One can also look forward to savouring authentic culinary delights which is always a great part of visiting a new destination!
Marine adventures and luxurious comforts beckon at the Raa Atoll one of the best places to visit in Maldives as well as stay at. This atoll features a rich marine biodiversity with thriving fish species along with whale sharks, turtles, and manta rays to encounter. It’s no surprise then that snorkelling and diving are among the not-to-be-missed activities here during a stay at private island resorts like Adaaran Select Meedhupparu. Such properties let you experience the best of this destination including thrilling water sports, sunset cruises, dolphin safaris, local island tours and desert island escapes, perfect for some seclusion and romance.
The Laamu Atoll features over fifty uninhabited islands and eight inhabited islands and provides a more isolated vibe. The country’s southernmost atoll provides plenty of fun in the sun as well as cultural discoveries at inhabited islands such as Gan which is home to historical Buddhist ruins from the nation’s pre-Islamic period. Of course, like the other atolls on this list, it offers the ideal ocean playground for water sports including surfing along with snorkelling and diving. One of the important attractions here is the Laamu Atoll Marine Centre and travellers can additionally look to get involved in conservation activities like turtle monitoring and coral planting during their holiday.
Baa Atoll is a haven of biodiversity and an absolute treat for nature enthusiasts. It's a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, and for a good reason, home to about 250 coral species and more than 1,200 fish species. Amongst its key allures is Hanifaru Bay where whale sharks and hundreds of manta rays congregate each year between May to November; the experience of snorkelling amongst these majestic ocean denizens as they feed on plankton is truly remarkable. This atoll is also where you will find inhabited islands like Thulhaahdhoo known for its local artisans who craft beautiful lacquer handicrafts.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
