Buruni Island, or Burunee, is located in the Thaa Atoll at the heart of the Maldives, approximately 180 km from Malé Airport. The island is beautiful, partially inhabited, and boasts a lush forest surrounded by crystal-clear waters and pristine reefs.
The village has about 400 residents and features a school, 4 mosques, a first aid station, 3 small markets, and a pharmacy.
For first aid and any medical needs, access to the local hospital is available.
In the Maldives, only certain beaches allow to wear bikinis. On Buruni Island, the bikini beach is just a short walk from the villa and is easily accessible.
Life on the island is characterized by local customs and enriched with traditions and local stories. Buruni is known for the Raagondi fishing and the beautiful love story of Dhon Hiyala, the most beautiful woman in the Maldives, and AliFulhu.
Raagondi Fishery
Once a year on Buruni Island, when the monsoon changes and the wind shifts from west to east, a special fishing event known as “raagondi” takes place. In the early morning hours, small dhonis, the traditional Maldivian fishing boats, head out to the lagoon’s outer edges. Fishermen begin to attract tuna by shouting and creating movement in the water with pieces of wood. Schools of tuna are drawn closer to the shore, where they are captured by hand. As a rule, all the catch is divided among the island’s families, sold at Malé’s fish market, and at the local market. The smaller tuna are smoked, vacuum-sealed, and become the famous Valoma, a widely consumed food among Maldivians.
Dhon Hiyala and AliFulhu
Buruni is renowned as the island where the most beautiful woman in the Maldives was born. The story tells of a girl of rare beauty named Dhon Hiyala and her beloved Ali Fulhu. The tale of their poignant love story, dating back to the mid-1500s, is a cherished part of Maldivian culture and one of its most romantic and epic narratives. Managers will share their story with you during your first island tour.
