Ukulhas Thila

# Ukulhas Thila

Discover Ukulhas Thila, a premier dive site in Ari Atoll, Maldives, renowned for its vibrant coral formations and abundant marine life. Located in the Indian Ocean, this thila (underwater pinnacle) rises from depths of 40-60 meters, making it suitable for intermediate to advanced divers.

The site features a stunning coral-covered structure with steep walls and plateaus that attract diverse species. Divers encounter large schools of fusiliers, snappers, and jacks circling the thila, while reef sharks and occasionally hammerheads patrol the deeper sections. Colorful coral gardens host nudibranchs, groupers, and lionfish among branching corals and soft corals.

Visibility typically ranges from 20-40 meters, offering excellent viewing conditions for photography. The site’s exposed location means currents can be strong, requiring experienced buoyancy control. Drift diving is common here, with depths suitable for recreational diving along the thila’s upper reaches.

Best visited during dry season months, Ukulhas Thila delivers an exhilarating combination of dramatic topography, thriving coral ecosystems, and pelagic encounters, making it essential for diving enthusiasts exploring Ari Atoll.

🐠 Marine Life at This Dive Site

Hawksbill Sea Turtle Eretmochelys imbricata opisska

Five-saddle Parrotfish Scarus scaber hikuta

Powder Blue Tang Acanthurus leucosternon hikuta

Indian Bullethead Parrotfish Chlorurus sordidus hikuta

Green Sea Turtle Chelonia mydas ingmar51

Phyllidia alyta Phyllidia alyta karymar

Species data from iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)