What is Fuvahmulah famous for?

Fuvahmulah is one of the most unique destinations in the Maldives. Unlike the typical ring-shaped atolls that make up the rest of the archipelago, Fuvahmulah is a "one-island atoll"—a single, large volcanic island standing alone in the deep Indian Ocean.

Because of its isolated location and unique geography, it has earned a global reputation for several distinct features.

1. The Shark Island of the Maldives

Fuvahmulah is world-famous as the "Tiger Shark Capital." It is one of the few places on Earth where divers can see tiger sharks year-round with a nearly 100% success rate.

• Tiger Zoo: This iconic dive site offers guaranteed, ethical encounters with tiger sharks in shallow water.

   

• Diverse Marine Life: Beyond tiger sharks, the island is a "pelagic dream," home to thresher sharks, hammerheads, whale sharks, oceanic manta rays, and even the rare mola mola.

   

2. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

In 2020, Fuvahmulah was designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It is recognized for its incredible biodiversity, including:

• Freshwater Lakes: Unlike most Maldivian islands, Fuvahmulah has two large freshwater lakes—Bandaara Kilhi and Dhadimagi Kilhi—surrounded by lush wetlands and mangroves.

   

• Fertile Soil: The island is remarkably green, supporting tropical forests and agriculture that produces fruits like areca nuts, mangoes, and pineapples.

3. Thoondu: The Unique Pebble Beach

While the Maldives is known for soft white sand, Fuvahmulah’s Thoondu Beach is famous for its white pebbles.

• Natural Phenomenon: The pebbles are exclusive to this beach and are formed by the island's unique reef topography.

   

• Bissaaveli: During certain seasons, sandbanks create natural pools on the beach, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

   

4. Rich Cultural Heritage

Fuvahmulah has a distinct identity that sets it apart from the rest of the country:

• Fuvahmulah Dialect: The locals speak "Fuvahmulaki baha," a unique dialect of Dhivehi that is noticeably different from the language spoken in Malé.
  
  

   

   

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• Ancient Ruins: The island is home to the Havitta, the remains of a pre-Islamic Buddhist stupa, and Gen Miskit, the oldest mosque in the Maldives built from coral stone.

   

• The "Kattelhi" Fish: A local culinary specialty is the Kattelhi (Promethichthys prometheus), a deep-water snake mackerel caught at night, usually served with taro and coconut.

   

5. Adventure Beyond Diving

Fuvahmulah is increasingly becoming a hub for alternative sports:

• Surfing: As a lone island in the open ocean, it receives consistent swells, making it one of the best spots for surfing and bodyboarding in the Maldives.

   

• Mud Baths: Visitors often head to the Kodakilhi wetland area for a therapeutic mud bath experience.