Lhohi Giri

Lhohi Giri is a coral head (giri) within the protected Lhohi reef complex in South Malé Atoll, offering a compact and colourful pinnacle dive characterised by dense coral growth and a steady stream of reef species.

Overview

Lhohi Giri rises to within a few metres of the surface, presenting a concentrated dome of coral structure in the shallow lagoon approaches of the Lhohi reef system. The summit at 4–6 metres is blanketed with hard corals and large sea fans, while the flanks slope to 25 metres where sandy channels separate individual coral formations. White-tip reef sharks are frequently found resting in the sand, and eagle rays drift past the deeper sections. The site benefits from its position within the Lhohi Protected Marine Area, where fishing is restricted and coral health is among the best in South Malé Atoll. Schools of reef fish — including snappers, fusiliers, and surgeonfish — are conspicuously dense around the giri.

Site Information

• Location: Maldives, Asia
• Entry Type: Boat dive
• Site Type: Pinnacle/seamount
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Maximum Depth: 25 meters
• Typical Visibility: 15-30 meters (50-100 feet)
• Current: Moderate, variable

Marine Life

White-tip reef sharks, eagle rays, sea fans, snappers, fusiliers, surgeonfish, grouper, moray eels, pufferfish, and a wide range of small reef fish in the coral growth.

Diving Tips

• Spend time at the summit (5–8 metres) to appreciate the coral garden before dropping down the flanks.
• Look in sandy gaps and under overhangs for resting white-tip sharks.
• The site is suitable for a multi-level dive: deep section first, then ascending along the coral flanks to the shallow summit.
• Combine with Lhohi Faru Tila or Lhohi Bodu Kandu for a full-day trip in this protected area.

Getting There

Lhohi Giri is accessible by dive boat from South Malé Atoll resorts or from Malé, approximately 30–60 minutes by dhoni or speedboat.