Kaashidhoo

Kaashidhoo sits on its own between the atolls north of Malé, large by Maldivian standards with soil that supports farming, and on it is Kuruhinna Tharaagandu, the excavated remains of a Buddhist monastery complex from before the twelfth-century conversion to Islam, with foundations, a stupa base and courtyards spread over a substantial area. It is among the largest pre-Islamic archaeological sites in the country. The island stands alone in open water between two atolls, which is why it was settled early and why the crossing from Malé is longer and rougher than the distance suggests.

Highlights

• Kuruhinna Tharaagandu - the excavated Buddhist monastery foundations.
• The stupa base - the circular structure at the centre of the complex.
• The pre-Islamic layer - the country's history before the twelfth-century conversion.
• The farming land - the soil that made the island unusual and settled early.

When to go

November to April is the dry season and calmest for crossings. Ferries run on limited days. The site is open ground at all times.

Things to know

The site is unconsolidated foundations with minimal interpretation and vegetation growing through. Ferry connections are infrequent and slow. Accommodation is very limited.

Nearby

Malé is south, and Thoddoo is southwest.