Kaashidhoo

Kaashidhoo combines a distinctive natural setting with remarkable evidence of the island’s history. The wetland with its mangroves and turtles represents a different side of the island from the ruins of Kuruhinna Tharaagandu and the Old Friday Mosque. Whether you are primarily looking for nature, cultural history, or both on your trip, you can take these interests into account when choosing your destination.

Wetland, mangroves and turtles

Kaashidhoo’s wetland is home to black turtles (Melanochelys trijuga thermalis). Of the three Maldivian islands where this species occurs, the highest number was recorded there. A 2019 survey by the Environmental Protection Agency recorded a total of 34 turtles in the wetland.

The wetland covers 42.75 hectares and is classified as a Category 7 protected area with sustainable use. Its plant life includes small-leaved orange mangroves, kulhlhavah mangroves, bon’davaki, palms and screw pines. The small-leaved orange mangrove is also known as kan’doo; kuhlhavah is another mangrove found there. Fallen kuhlhavah and screw pine fruits provide food for the turtles.

An important point for planning your trip: ecotourism in the wetland is permitted only with a special permit and in accordance with established guidelines. Nature enthusiasts should take this into account when deciding whether to visit Kaashidhoo. The protected area is a distinctive part of the island, but it is not an ecotourism attraction that is freely accessible without conditions.

Archaeological traces and island history

Kuruhinna Tharaagandu is one of the Maldives’ cultural attractions. The site consists of the ruins of an ancient Buddhist monastery, which was probably used in the pre-Islamic period. Excavations carried out between 1996 and 1998 uncovered a large monastic complex with several buildings; more than 60 coral-stone structures were excavated. These findings give the site an archaeological dimension that differs markedly from the wetland’s natural setting.

Kuruhinna Tharaagandu lies outside Kaashidhoo’s inhabited area, in a setting with trees, pepper plants and banana groves. Its location and excavated structures make it interesting for travellers who want to learn about the island’s earlier history. The Old Friday Mosque offers another historical connection: it is one of the oldest mosques on the island. The foundation of a historic site was discovered beneath it in 2020.

Traditions, stories and agriculture

Kaashidhoo’s traditional sports and dances include Taara, Bandiya, Langiri, Maali dance and Dafinegu. The island’s traditional games are played during every Eid celebration.

Stories are also part of the island’s cultural identity. Araamagu Dhonkamana is a long-familiar story from Kaashidhoo: some believe it to be true, while others consider it a folk tale. The story of Dhonmohona and the shark is also associated with Kaashidhoo. These tales offer a different way to experience the island than its monastery ruins, mosque or nature reserve.

Kaashidhoo also has an agricultural side: the island has lush fields in the forest and gardens. Fresh fruit and vegetables from Kaashidhoo are supplied to the market in Malé. The cultivated landscape and the supply of the capital are therefore among the facets that make the destination distinctive beyond its historic sites.

Getting there and choosing your destination

The speedboat trip from Malé to Kaashidhoo takes 1 hour and 30 minutes. There are also ferry services between Malé and Kaashidhoo; ask a guesthouse or resort for timetable information. Take this journey into account when choosing accommodation on the island. If you are considering Kaashidhoo as a destination, you can weigh up your interests: the wetland offers nature and wildlife, while Kuruhinna Tharaagandu and the Old Friday Mosque offer different historical themes. This way, your search for a holiday apartment can reflect the kind of stay you have in mind on Kaashidhoo.

More destinations to discover: Rasdu Atoll, Himmafushi, Bodufolhudhoo, Felidhoo, Mahibadhoo, Guraidhoo, Dhigurah and Thoddoo.

For the overview of the wider region: North Central Province.