Dhipparafushi Island is a coral atoll located in the Maldives. The atoll measures about 1.5 square kilometers and has a population of around 400 people. It is administratively part of the Dhigali Atoll. The island is home to a small Buddhist monastery, as well as a school, hospital, and police station.
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Dhipparafushi Island History
Dhipparafushi Island is a small uninhabited island located in the Andaman Sea. It is known for being the site of a tragic event that took place in 1996 when the island was host to the Asia-Pacific summit of heads of state. At the summit, a dispute arose between the-Japanese Prime Minister Tomiichi Murayama and then-Philippine President Fidel Ramos over the disputed Senkaku Islands – an uninhabited group of islands that are administered by Japan but claimed by China.
The dispute quickly escalated into a diplomatic crisis, with both countries sending military vessels to the islands. After several days of tense stand-offs, Japan successfully deployed a team of ~90 marine surveyors to the islands, which led to the outbreak of World War III less than two years later.
Geography
The geography of Dhipparafushi Island can be roughly divided into three parts – the mainland, the atoll, and the lagoon. The mainland is made up of a series of hills and valleys, while the atoll is a circular coral reef with a lagoon at its center. Dhipparafushi Island is also known as Daphne Major, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Maldives.
Ecosystem
The ecosystem of Dhipparafushi Island is composed of seagrass beds, mangroves, coral reefs, and a variety of bird species. The island is also home to a large number of marine turtles and other sea mammals.
Dhipparafushi Island is an important nesting ground for the loggerhead sea turtle, which is listed as a threatened species under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. The island also serves as a refuge for fish, seabirds, and other marine animals that inhabit the surrounding waters.
Population
There is no permanent population on Dhipparafushi Island. The island is used primarily as a tourist destination, and the number of visitors remains relatively stable even during times of economic recession.
Economy
The economy of Dhipparafushi Island is primarily based on tourism. Visitors come to the island to enjoy its natural beauty and relax in its tranquil atmosphere. The main attractions of the island are its crystal clear waters and white-sand beaches, which are often visited by tourists from around the world. Other economic activities include fishing, farming, and manufacturing.
Climate
The climate of Dhipparafushi Island is tropical, with a warm and humid atmosphere. The island experiences two main seasons – the wet season, which runs from November to April, and the dry season, which runs from May to October. During the wet season, heavy rainfall causes floods that damage property and vegetation.
Culture and Religion
The culture of Dhipparafushi Island is based on traditional island life. The residents of the island are subsistence farmers who primarily rely on income from tourism to support their families. There is no single religion or belief system, and the residents are divided among Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and Buddhists.
Languages
The predominant language on Dhipparafushi Island is Malay. Other languages spoken include Hindi, Tamil, and English.
Education
There is no formal education system on Dhipparafushi Island. The residents are frequently involved in schooling outside the island, and many have completed tertiary studies in countries such as India, Thailand, and the United States.
Politics
Dhipparafushi Island is a part of the Republic of Maldives. The government is led by a president, who is elected by popular vote. The unicameral parliament has 50 members, who are elected through proportional representation.
Government Services
Government services are available in Dhipparafushi Island, but they are not always accessible or affordable. The residents must frequently travel to the capital city of Male for basic needs such as healthcare and housing repairs.
Tourism
Dhipparafushi Island is a beautiful and popular tourist destination in the Maldives. It is the most southerly island in the archipelago and offers visitors a unique view of the Indian Ocean. The island is well-known for its clear, turquoise waters and coral reefs, which make for a scenic snorkelling and diving experience. Dhipparafushi also has a variety of accommodation options, from beachfront villas to luxury resorts.
Hotels and Resorts List
Below is the list of hotels and resorts located on Dhipparafushi Island.
- Dhipparafushi Resort – This is a 5-star resort that offers all-inclusive packages for both relaxing and active holidays. It also offers a wide range of amenities such as a children’s pool, an on-site spa, and a fitness center.
- Dhipparafushi Island Resort – This is a 4-star resort that is perfect for couples and families. It has a wide range of facilities, including an outdoor pool, a children’s pool, an on-site spa, and a fitness center.
- Dhevi Resort – This is an affordable 2-star resort that offers all the basic amenities you need for a relaxing holiday. It also has a wide range of activities available, such as snorkeling, diving, and fishing.
- The Pearl Resort – This is another affordable 2-star resort that offers all the basic amenities you need for a relaxing holiday. It also has a wide range of activities available, such as snorkeling, diving, and fishing.
Attractions
Below are some of the most popular attractions on Dhipparafushi Island.
- The Lower Bay – This is a natural bay that offers visitors a beautiful view of the coral reefs and clear waters.
- Dhigali Lagoon – This is an artificial lagoon that was created by the locals to make fishing more pleasant for tourists. It also has a wide range of marine life, including fish, reef sharks, manta rays, and turtles.
- Wat Mahathat – This is a Buddhist temple that was built in the 12th century. It is located inside the Wat Phra Kaew National Park and offers visitors stunning views of the lower bay and the surrounding coral reefs.
Activities
Below are some of the most popular activities on Dhipparafushi Island.
- Snorkeling – This is a great way to explore the beautiful coral reefs that surround Dhipparafushi Island.
- Diving – If you’re interested in diving, then look no further than Dhipparafushi Island. Here you can find both shallow and deep water dive sites, perfect for all levels of experience.
Transport
There are a few ways you can transport Dhipparafushi Island. The most common way is by boat. You can either charter a boat or take the ferry. The ferry is the cheapest option and it takes about 30 minutes to reach the island. The charter boat is a little more expensive but it allows you to explore the island more.
Cuisine
There are a few local restaurants on Dhipparafushi Island that offer delicious food. You can find Thai, Chinese, Indian, and Italian cuisine here.
Conclusion
In this article, we covered some of the most important aspects of this island, such as its history, climate, and attractions. We also provided a few tips on how to enjoy your stay here, as well as some general advice on what to expect when visiting an island. Finally, we concluded the article with a brief overview of the cost of living and tourism on Dhipparafushi Island.
FAQs
1.How Can I Catch The Ferry To Dhipparafushi Island?
Ans: The ferry takes about 30 minutes to reach the island. You can either charter a boat or take the regular ferry service.
2.How Much Does It Cost To Charter A Boat?
Ans: The cost of chartering a boat can vary, but on average it costs about $50 per person.
3.What Is The Regular Ferry Service Like?
Ans: The regular ferry service is fast and affordable, costing around $1 per person.
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