For those dreaming of an untouched tropical escape, a recent online discovery has revealed a genuine hidden gem. A traveller's Reddit post has unveiled Dhigurah, a stunningly narrow island in the Maldives that offers a rare glimpse of unspoilt beauty, for now.
A Sliver of Paradise Found
Sharing their experience on the social media platform, a tourist detailed how they and their girlfriend extended a trip to Sri Lanka in 2023 by flying to Malé and taking a local ferry. Their destination was the island of Dhigurah, located two atolls away, which they described as a "little unspoilt paradise" that had only recently opened to non-Muslim foreigners.
According to maldives-magazine.com, Dhigurah is part of the Alifu Dhaalu Atoll. The island is an impressive 3km long, making it one of the longest in the Maldives, yet at its narrowest point, it spans a mere 250 metres wide.
An Aquatic Wonderland
The island's true magic lies in the crystal-clear waters that surround it. The area is renowned for its abundant marine life, including docile whale sharks, stingrays, and a host of other species. For snorkellers and swimmers, this creates an unparalleled experience. Whale sharks, which feed solely on plankton and pose no threat to humans, are a major draw.
The Reddit user recounted their idyllic routine: "We spent our time snorkelling (the water, especially the closer to the shore, is literally teeming with sea life), swimming with whale sharks and stingrays and drinking freshly cut coconut juice on the beach."
A Race Against Development
However, this paradise may be under threat. The traveller expressed concern about the rapid pace of development on Dhigurah. They noted that during their visit, the local population was clearing the rainforest at an "alarming rate" to make way for new hotels, some of which have already appeared on Booking.com.
This observation casts a shadow over the island's future. When asked if they would return, the original poster was hesitant, suggesting it might be best to preserve their fond memories rather than witness a vastly changed landscape.
The post sparked envy and excitement among other Reddit users. One commenter simply wrote, "Man I wish I could be there now. Looks amazing." Another revealed they had nearly visited themselves while planning a trip to Sri Lanka.
For those inspired to visit, the original poster offered crucial travel advice. While they took a local ferry, they strongly recommended against it, citing a lengthy journey prone to causing seasickness. The better option is to opt for a speedboat, which cuts the travel time by two-thirds.
Despite the concerns about development, the island continues to receive rave reviews. One visitor on Booking.com declared it home to "the most beautiful sea I have ever seen in my entire life." For travellers seeking a final look at a pristine paradise, Dhigurah represents a fleeting, narrow opportunity.
