Laamu Atoll (Maldives)

Laamu Atoll (aka Haddhunmathi) is an island and also one of Maldives administrative divisions, with a total of 82 islands and combined population around 12,000. Traditionally, the atoll itself (Laamu Island) is called Haddhunmathi. Division's administrative center is on Fonadhoo Island.

Laamu Island is rimmed by barrier reefs and the broadest of them are topped by isles, plus numerous smaller islands to the east and south. Laamu resembles Kolhumadulhu (to the north). Due to the typical atoll shape, it doesn't differ from most Pacific Ocean atolls, except the bigger size. The surrounding reefs are narrow and without deep pools (lagoons), except for the eastern fringes covered with quite big for the Maldives islands.

Laamu Atoll forms Central Maldives' southern limit. Beyond Huvadhu Kandu, the broadest channel found between atolls in the Maldives, are located the southern atolls. Kadhdhoo Domestic Airport is in Kadhdhoo Island.

Laamu is the biggest atoll in Maldives. Many of the isles located on the eastern reef (including Dhanbidhoo, Gan, Isdhoo, Mundoo) have important archaeological sites with remains of viharas (Buddhist monasteries), stupas (mound-like religious structure) and also large monasteries.

Laamu Atoll cruise terminal