The Alifu Atoll lies between the latitude
4° 27' N and 3° 55' N. Located at a distance of 45 km from
'Kaafu Atoll' there are 18 islands which have been inhabited
with a population of around 10000.
The main occupation of the natives includes
weaving sails, collecting and carving corals. The natives
of this atoll are well known for their diving
skills.
Another source of economy for this
island is its high production of coconuts. The next zone to venture
into tourism after North Male' atoll, Alifu Atoll has 27 resorts
in all and has provided the natives with a new source of income.
The preferred mode of transport for accessing the resorts is by
speedboat and seaplane.
Ari
One of the largest atolls in Maldives,
the Ari Atoll is 80 kms long and 30 kms wide. The natural
beauty of the Ari atoll has led to it being the most well-developed
tourist zone in Maldives.
Rasdhoo
Rasdhoo Atoll is the capital atoll of the Alifu Atoll. A part of the Alifu Atoll, the Rasdhoo atoll boasts of two resorts and an uninhabited island. The Atoll capital, Rasdhoo has a population of more than 850.
Thoddoo
An important island from the historic perspective,
Thoddoo has several important archeological sites. The excavations
of these sites have revealed that the island was an important
Buddhist centre before Maldives
embraced Islam in 1153. Another important attraction of this
island is the 17th century Mosque. Thoddoo is also well-known
for its watermelon fields.
