Fushifaru Thila is one of the best places in the Maldives, after Hanifaru Bay, to observe the graceful mantas in their natural habitat.
Located in the northern part of Lhaviyani Atoll, this reef is particularly famous for its cleaning station, a magical underwater spot where mantas come to be “pampered” by cleaner fish.
Fushifaru Thila, a Superb Dive Site and Manta Hotspot
Fushifaru Thila lies within the Fushifaru channel, an exceptional dive area known for its many thilas ( the Dhivehi word for submerged pinnacles, meaning large rock and coral formations rising from the seabed.)
There are several thilas in this channel, as is often the case in Maldivian passes, but what makes this one truly special is that it is also home to a famous manta ray cleaning station.
Here, mantas circle gracefully above the reef, allowing smaller fish to clean their skin and gills, a natural show that fascinates divers and snorkelers alike.
*What is a Cleaning Station ?
No, it’s not a car wash underwater !
It’s a spot in the ocean where manta rays gather to be cleaned of parasites by small reef fish.
It’s also a place where whale sharks may occasionally pass by.
Where is Fushifaru Thila Located ?
Fushifaru Thila lies on the north-eastern edge of Lhaviyani Atoll, right at the entrance of a channel where the waters of the Indian Ocean flow into the inner lagoon.
Its position makes it a feeding ground for mantas during the northeast monsoon, when plankton is abundant.
The site is only a 10-minute boat ride away from nearby resorts such as Hurawalhi Maldives, Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, and Six Senses Kanuhura.
Scuba Diving at Fushifaru Thila
Unlike Hanifaru Bay, where scuba diving is prohibited and manta encounters are limited to snorkeling only, Fushifaru Thila offers divers the rare opportunity to experience the spectacle underwater.
It is one of the Maldives’ must-dive sites for enthusiasts who dream of observing manta rays in their natural environment while exploring a truly magnificent reef.
While mantas are the main attraction, the area also offers spectacular underwater landscapes with slopes, walls, and plateaus filled with marine life.
You’ll encounter many reef fish and also barracudas, moray eels, lionfish, and sometimes even turtles.
When is the Best Time to See Mantas at Fushifaru Thila ?
Fushifaru Thila is active all year round, but the best manta season runs from September to February, when plankton blooms attract large numbers of rays.
During these months, you can often see both adults and juveniles gliding over the reef, feeding in small groups or performing their elegant barrel rolls, a breathtaking scene for snorkelers and divers.
Scuba Diving at Fushifaru Thila
For scuba diving enthusiasts, Fushifaru Thila is an unmissable Maldivian dive site. While mantas are the main attraction, the area also offers spectacular underwater landscapes with slopes, walls, and plateaus filled with marine life.
You’ll encounter reef fish such as fusiliers, angelfish, and butterflyfish, as well as predators like barracudas, trevallies, moray eels, lionfish, and sometimes even turtles.
The Best Resorts Near Fushifaru Thila
Lhaviyani Atoll is known to host many beautiful resorts, and Fushifaru Thila is closed to several of them.
Note : From your resort, you can choose to join private snorkeling or diving excursions with your own guide or marine biologist, or join small group trips organized by the dive center.
Kudadoo Maldives Private Island
Kudadoo Maldives Private Island is the only ultra-luxury all-inclusive private island in the Maldives.
The ultra-luxury private island is dedicated to adults-only and offers an exclusive all-inclusive concept unlike any other in the Maldives.
Here, you can encounter manta rays, admire its award-winning architecture, and enjoy complete privacy on a tiny island surrounded by a magnificent reef.
Learn more – Swim With Manta Rays at Kudadoo Maldives Private Island
Hurawalhi Maldives
Hurawalhi Maldives offers one of the most elegant all-inclusive experiences in the Maldives, perfect for travelers seeking both indulgence and adventure.
The resort is one of the best 5-star luxury resorts to stay if you dream to see and swim with manta rays in the Maldives
Don’t miss the resort’s 5.8 Undersea Restaurant a spectacular underwater dining experience.
Learn more – Swim With Mantas Rays at Hurawalhi Maldives
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