South Ari Atoll - The Maldives

South Ari Atoll
Comprising of three geographical atolls the Ari Atoll, Rasdhoo Atoll and the Thoddoo Atoll. The Alifu Atoll which includes the South Ari Atoll was the second zone to establish a tourism industry in The Maldives. The Atoll is located between 4° 27' N and 3° 55' N and is forty five kilometres to the west of Kaafu Atoll.

The area enjoys numerous diving opportunities with some wonderful dive sites and attracts many divers of all abilities. Eighteen of the islands are inhabited with the remainder lying unexploited and untouched in all their natural tropical beauty.

Ari
Measuring around eighty kilometres long and thirty kilometres wide, the Ari Atoll is one of the largest atolls in Maldives. Its natural beauty has attracted tourist and it is one of the more developed areas of the Maldivian islands.
   
Rasdhoo
Rasdhoo Atoll, also part of the Alifu Atoll, boasts of two resorts and a number of uninhabited islands. Rasdhoo is the Atolls capital with a population of an approximately 850 people.
   
Thoddoo
Archaeological excavations of Thoddoo have revealed that the island was an important Buddhist centre before the Maldives embraced Islam in 1153. Today one of the main attractions of this island is the 17th century Mosque. Thoddoo is well-known for its watermelon fields and produces and sells its fruits throughout the Maldives.

The 10000 population of Alifu Atoll is spread over eighteen islands. The main occupation of the people who eke out an existence includes weaving sails, collecting and carving corals and catching turtles. These islanders are recognized for their legendary shark catching skills which they even continue today, the practise is in direct contradiction with today’s visitors who dive and prefer to photograph the magnificent fish in their natural habitat. Another source of economy for this island is its coconut production. The establishment of resorts has provided new sources of income and employment opportunities for the local population.

Additional South Ari Atoll information

• South Ari Atoll
• Diving
• A Brief History