As I walked on the artificial harbour of Dhangethi, Southern Ari Atoll (Alif Dhaal Atoll/ADH), I felt a rare tropical breeze caress my neck during this heated hour of late noon. The deserted harbour was blinding as the clear white grounds of the recently reclaimed area reflected the sun as if I stared directly at flood lights on a football field. I hurried to the shade over 20 feet away and sat in the traditionally woven swings known as Joali. After a cool-off, my colleagues and I walked inland towards the old-harbour jetty on the Western point.

Unlike many islands I have visited, the streets of Dhangethi were filled with trees, especially the temple flower trees. After a short work to the Western point, we were greeted by a small monument known as the ‘Dhangethi Fenvalhu’ or the local water well. The well is no more and is built as a monument now, which stands opposite to the long wooden jetty. Standing at the western point, I saw the beautiful turquoise waters with dark patches of the embedded reef nearby. It was a windy day at Dhangethi, as we sat at the local Café drinking some warm coffee, our gazes lost to the beautiful island.

Dhangethi island offers over four to five guest houses which are very high in demand. Some experiences in islands such as these are too momentous for words. Indeed, you should experience a stay at this island to at least take a look around, and take in the aesthetics and the relaxation.