Mandhoo: Tranquil Island in Alif Dhaal Atoll
Visitor Fee:
As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, there is generally no specific visitor fee for entering Mandhoo Island itself. However, please note that Mandhoo Island is home to the Six Senses Laamu, a luxury resort, and fees associated with accommodations and services at the resort would apply. It's advisable to check with the resort directly for the most up-to-date information regarding fees and reservations.
Transportation:
To reach Mandhoo Island, you typically follow these steps:
- International Flight: Fly into Velana International Airport in Malé, the capital of the Maldives.
- Domestic Flight and Speedboat Transfer: From Malé, you can take a domestic flight to Kadhdhoo Airport on Laamu Atoll, followed by a speedboat transfer to Mandhoo Island. The domestic flight takes approximately 1 hour, and the speedboat ride is typically around 20-30 minutes.
Things to Do:
- Luxurious Accommodations: Mandhoo Island is home to the Six Senses Laamu, a world-renowned luxury resort. Guests can enjoy lavish overwater and beachfront villas, private pools, and stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
- Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the island's vibrant coral reefs through snorkeling or scuba diving. The resort offers guided excursions to some of the best dive sites in the region.
- Water Sports: Engage in a range of water sports such as windsurfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
- Spa and Wellness: The Six Senses Laamu offers an award-winning spa where you can indulge in various wellness treatments and yoga sessions.
- Fine Dining: Enjoy gourmet dining experiences at the resort's restaurants and bars, with a focus on fresh and sustainable ingredients.
Why People Enjoy Coming Here:
- Exclusivity and Luxury: Mandhoo Island and the Six Senses Laamu offer a secluded and luxurious escape for travelers seeking privacy, pampering, and high-end accommodations.
- Natural Beauty: The island's pristine beaches, lush vegetation, and clear waters provide a serene and picturesque backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Marine Life: Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts are drawn to the island's diverse marine life, including coral gardens, manta rays, and sea turtles.
Age of the Place:
Mandhoo Island, like many other inhabited islands in the Maldives, has a long history of human habitation dating back centuries. Its age as an inhabited island is part of its cultural heritage. However, the development of the luxury resort on the island is relatively recent.
List of Activities:
- Snorkeling
- Scuba Diving
- Water Sports (Windsurfing, Paddleboarding, Kayaking)
- Spa and Wellness Treatments
- Fine Dining
- Beach Activities (Swimming, Sunbathing)
Additional Nearby Attractions:
As Mandhoo Island primarily hosts the Six Senses Laamu resort, most activities and attractions are centered around the resort itself. Guests can arrange excursions to nearby dive sites, uninhabited islands, and cultural experiences in the Maldives through the resort. The resort staff can assist in planning these activities based on your preferences.