North Ari atoll - its spectacular dive sites will evoke a sense of wonder in you

Banyan Tree Madivaru

W Retreat

North Ari Atoll map   

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As you approach North Ari Atoll by seaplane, observe how, from above, these isolated islands resemble emeralds scattered on blue velvet. Or approach by speedboat, with the wind whipping your hair and the fresh sea breezes giving you a taste of the freedom of the hidden world of the Maldives. The Ari Atoll is one of the largest and most beautiful atolls in the Maldives, and the 18 isolated islands of North Ari are peppered with some of the world’s most enchanting dive spots. Here you will also find 28 sumptuous resorts, many of which have won international accolades and awards.

The North Ari lagoon is a tranquil place ideal for learning to windsurf or sail. As the sun rises in all its brilliant glory, each morning also hosts innumerable manta rays that patrol the shallows for their breakfasts. Observing these natural wonders from the deck of your overwater bungalow or shaded beach cabana will impress you with the handsomeness of these islands and the idyllic lifestyle they offer.

Famous dive sites of North Ari include Kudarah Thila, a perfect place for experienced divers to see hammerhead sharks, gorgonians, whip corals, and a mesmerizing field of sea fans. For beginners and snorkelers, experts recommend Kuramathi House Reef, where shipwrecks offer intrigue and underwater elegance. The site known as Broken Rock is in the mouth of Dhigurashu Kandu, a 10-meter deep canyon that is but one to three meters wide. Intrepid underwater explorers swim through the canyon’s 50-meter length for an unforgettable experience.

While unforgettable experiences await underwater in North Ari, don’t forget that another treasure of the Maldives is its culture. Visitors to North Ari can enjoy a visit to nearby Thoddoo island, well-known for its fresh produce market and watermelon fields. Here it becomes apparent that North Ari residents hail from locales as diverse as India, Africa, and Arabia, and that this region enjoys the best of each of these worlds. The beauty of domed mosques dominates the skyline of every Maldivian town, the enchanting strains of Indian music and its graceful Kathak dance form prevails throughout the islands, and African-derived Bodu Beru drumming performances entertain visitors to many North Ari island resorts. The perfect place to leave the rest of the world behind, North Ari Atoll is one of the Maldives’ most popular and yet best-preserved natural playgrounds.