Haa Alifu Atoll Hotels

Happening Haa Alifu
There’s relaxation – and then there’s Haa Alifu Atoll. This group of islands sits at the northernmost point of the Maldives, close to both Sri Lanka and India. Only 16 of the 42 islands are inhabited, meaning you can act out all manner of deserted-island fantasies knowing that modern, luxurious resorts (like the beach houses on Manafaru) are just a coconut’s throw away. ... Read more »
In fact the majority of Haa Alifu Atoll resorts sit on their own islands, which themselves barely stick out of the water. Averaging a mere 1.5 metres (that’s just 5 feet!) above sea level, you should think about going sooner rather than later if the global warming theories are correct. Covered in lush green vegetation and surrounded by dazzling beaches with clear water, Haa Alifu Atoll is the perfect place to enjoy windsurfing, water skiing or sailing.
Haa Alifu Atoll’s Top 10
10. Night Fishing The name says it all – and it makes a refreshing change from cocktail-coiffing after dark. |
5. Scuba Diving Dive into the clear water and visit some of the best recreational dive spots in the world. Coral, anyone? |
9. Baarah Island The Kalhuohfummi was launched from here and proved instrumental in the Maldivian victory over Portugal in the 16th century. |
4. Matheerah Island Visit the famous mausoleum, which stands proudly on this island. |
8. Water Sports In a place that is more water than land, it would be silly not to get wet. |
3. Kelaa Island Boasts a beautiful mosque packed with history. |
7. Uligamu Island A favourite for yachties sailing through the region. Best to avoid if you’re the jealous type. |
2. Ziyaaraiy Temple Visited by former kings of the Maldives, this temple holds special significance. |
6. Snorkelling Not sure how to scuba dive? If you can swim, you can still enjoy the underwater delights. |
1. Utheemu Island Made of wood, the 400-year-old palace on the island has been perfectly preserved. They sure don’t make them like they used to. |
Haa Alifu Atoll History
- Matheerah Shrine – Near Haa Alifu Atoll is this ancient shrine was visited by Maldive kings for blessings.
- Utheemu Ganduvaru – This 400-year-old wooden palace is on Utheemu Island and was the home of Mohamed Thakurufaanu, famous liberator of the Maldives.
- Keela Mosque – This mosque on the island of Keela is a great example of Maldivian architecture.
- Kalhuoh Funmi War Ship – This famous ship found on Baarah Island in Haa Alifu Atoll was responsible for a Maldivian victory over the Portuguese.
- Keela Island – This island was used as a post for the British during the 1930s and houses monuments to this era.
Haa Alifu Atoll Art & Culture
- Esjehi Art Gallery – This art gallery displays some of the best art in the Maldives from the past and present.
- National Museum – Come learn about the rich history of the Maldives at this museum.
- Medhu-Ziyaarath Magu – This building was constructed in the 1800s and is just a short trip from Haa Alifu Atoll.
- Grand Friday Mosque – This mosque is famous for its beautiful calligraphy and artwork.
- Mulee Aage Palace – The presidential palace located in Male is just a short flight or boat ride from Haa Alifu Atoll.
Haa Alifu Atoll Shopping
- Conrad Maldives Rangali Island – The shops on this island on Haa Alifu Atoll are a great place for souvenirs.
- Majeedhee Magu – This shopping area is a great place to find gifts and is just a short trip from Haa Alifu Atoll.
- Chaadhanee Magu – Another shopping area where shoppers can find handicrafts.
- The Maldives Local Market – Located just a short trip from Haa Alifu Atoll, this local market is a great place to find tasty local snacks.
- Le Cute Jewellery – This store is a great location for jewellery.
Gay & Lesbian Haa Alifu Atoll
Haa Alifu Atoll Events
As a Muslim country, the Islamic New Year in February is a major event on the calendar.
In March the locals celebrate Eid-Milad Nnabi, which is the Prophet Mohammed’s birthday. You will need to go to one of the more populated islands to enjoy the feasts and witness the parades.
Islam Day in April commemorates the day the religion was officially introduced to the region.
Depending how remote your island is, you may see some dancing in July to celebrate Independence Day.
The locals will be in high spirits in September/October during Kuda Eid to celebrate the end of Ramadan.
When To Go
Temperatures average around 30ºC (86ºF) all year – which makes packing easy!
Surrounded by water wherever you are, the sea breeze helps nullify the humidity.
Avoid the monsoon season. It is usually from June to September, but can be unpredictable in its timing.
Getting Around
A speedboat will let you get out and about among the different islands.
To see how little land there really is, take a seaplane up into the sky.
For a more relaxing journey, paddle a kayak around the islands to explore the deserted beaches. Anyone for skinny-dipping?
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