Dhigu Thila

Pinnacle chain near Anga Faru Sandbank; overhangs at 25-30m. Feeding aggregation site.

Part of a long chain of pinnacles connected to Anga Faru Sandbank, this site offers excellent drift diving opportunities. The west end features overhangs at different levels, going as deep as 25-30 meters. Mantas can be seen passing by occasionally, and this is notably a spot where mantas feed in aggregations similar to Hanifaru Bay – the key difference being that diving is permitted here. The site offers healthy coral life, abundant fish populations, and possible whale shark sightings.

The Dive

Dhigu Thila is an impressive underwater ridge stretching approximately one kilometer in length, with its narrowest point measuring just six meters across. The site consists of three separate pinnacles creating dramatic canyon-like formations between them. The outer peaks rise to around 6 meters below the surface, while the western pinnacle reaches 10 meters. The deepest reef top sections sit at around 18 meters, where vertical walls drop off into the blue. The western end features spectacular overhangs at various levels, descending to 25-30 meters. With walls on both sides channeling medium currents, this is an ideal site for drift diving.

Marine Life

Dhigu Thila is renowned as a manta ray feeding aggregation site, similar to the famous Hanifaru Bay – with the key advantage that diving is permitted here. During plankton-rich periods, multiple mantas gather to feed, and lucky divers may witness their mesmerizing “dancing duet” mating displays. Grey reef sharks patrol the cleaning stations along the reef, while whale sharks make occasional appearances. The healthy reef supports diverse marine life including stingrays, moray eels, lionfish, and abundant reef fish among the coral gardens.

Conditions

This site experiences medium currents, making it suitable for experienced drift divers. Due to the depth profile and current conditions, advanced certification is recommended although Openwater divers can dive here when there is low to moderate currents. The best time to visit is during the southwest monsoon season when manta activity peaks.