At a glance
| At a glance | Thaa |
|---|---|
| Where | The south, north of Laamu |
| Getting there | Seaplane, about an hour; a domestic airport at Thimarafushi |
| Under water | Drift dives; mantas, eagle rays, whale sharks |
| On land | Fishing, mat weaving and carpentry on local islands |
| Suits | Seclusion, experienced divers, surfers |
Where it is
Thaa, or Kolhumadulu, is a large, almost round atoll in the south, north of Laamu. Thirteen of its islands are inhabited. Its old name, Kolhumaduva, dates from the time of King Koimala, said to have first united the atolls under one kingdom.
Getting there
The resort is reached by seaplane, in about an hour. Thimarafushi, in the atoll, also has a domestic airport. Seaplanes fly in daylight only; Seaplane or speedboat? explains more.
Under water
Thaa is known for drift dives, such as Olhugiri Kandu, with manta rays, eagle rays, sharks and whale sharks. Many sites suit experienced divers only.
Surf
Thaa has uncrowded surf breaks, and the surf season here runs from about April to October.
On land
Local islands keep up fishing and trades such as mat weaving and carpentry.
Who it suits
A stay here suits travellers after seclusion, experienced divers and surfers, with uncrowded breaks and drift dives. Our pick is below. Tell us who is travelling and what matters most, and we suggest the island that fits.
