Lying 400 miles south of India, the Maldivian islands are a picturesque paradise, with clear blue water and great visibility. Hanifaru Bay lies northwest of Male, the capital of the Maldives and is an uninhabited island that is protected. Today it has evolved into one of the most magical sports for underwater photographers.
This spot has evolved into a heaven for photographers because of a natural phenomenon that occurs between the months of May to November. The lunar tides that occur during this period create a scenario where plankton from the deep waters of the Indian Ocean is pulled to the surface resulting in rather large amounts of plankton. This attracts schools of fish, large manta rays and large sharks that capitalize on this feeding opportunity giving divers in the area a sensational experience of underwater life.
Manta Rays are at times known to form a long line with one manta rays head touching the others tail: a process known as chain feeding. Occasionally the last manta ray in this line joins together with the first in the line and spins into a whirlpool. This rather strange behavior is known as cyclone feeding and is one of the most dramatic feeding behaviors. Hanifaru Bay is famous for divers witnessing this phenomenal experience with as many as 100 or more manta rays gathering to chain feed. This together with the other numerous varieties of species on display has made Hanifaru Bay the most sought after dive destinations of the world. Divers say the best time to visit would be from late July to early October.
Rated as one of the premier Maldives Resorts, Kurumba is located inside the Atoll and is surrounded by wave breakers which allow for snorkelling right around the island. The hotel offers eight varieties of accommodation. Ranging from superior rooms to deluxe bungalows, garden bungalows to presidential villas the Kurumba offers something for everyone. Each room is complemented by a walk in dressing room and indoor and outdoor showers with easy access to the beach like most luxury hotels in Maldives. The resort also offers relaxing spa treatments, large conferencing and meeting facilities and nine different restaurants to wine and dine making Kurumba Maldives a one stop hotel for every traveller.