Lhohi Faru Tila

Lhohi Faru Tila

Lhohi Faru Tila is a submerged pinnacle (thila) set within the outer reef (faru) system of Lhohi in South Malé Atoll — a protected marine area where the summit bursts with soft corals and the surrounding walls attract reef sharks and large pelagics.

Overview

Rising from the atoll floor to a summit at around 8 metres depth, Lhohi Faru Tila is a classic Maldivian thila with all the hallmarks of a healthy pinnacle site. The top plateau is dense with hard and soft coral growth — sea fans, table corals, and abundant anthias — while the sides drop sharply to 28 metres in a series of overhangs and coral buttresses. White-tip reef sharks rest on the sandy ledges and grey reef sharks circle mid-water during stronger currents. The site sits within the Lhohi Protected Marine Area, meaning corals and fish life are in notably good condition compared to unprotected zones. Eagle rays and napoleon wrasse regularly patrol the deeper sections.

Site Information

• Location: Maldives, Asia
• Entry Type: Boat dive
• Site Type: Pinnacle/seamount
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Maximum Depth: 28 meters
• Typical Visibility: 15-30 meters (50-100 feet)
• Current: Moderate to strong, variable

Marine Life

White-tip reef sharks, grey reef sharks, eagle rays, napoleon wrasse, anthias, sea fans, table corals, grouper, schools of fusiliers, and nurse sharks resting in sandy hollows.

Diving Tips

• Circumnavigate the pinnacle at 15–20 metres to cover the most diverse habitats and spot sharks on the deeper ledges.
• The summit plateau is perfect for the safety stop among thriving anthias and soft coral.
• Best dived on a light or medium current — strong current concentrates the sharks but requires close attention to buoyancy.
• This site is a Protected Marine Area; be vigilant about no-touch and no-anchor protocols.

Getting There

Lhohi Faru Tila is reached by dive boat from resorts in South Malé Atoll or from Malé, approximately 30–60 minutes by dhoni or speedboat.