Lankan Beyru

This dive site, Lankan Beyru, is world-renowned as a premier manta ray cleaning station within the crystal-clear waters of the Maldives. Divers typically position themselves strategically on the reef to observe the majestic mantas as they gracefully hover over specific coral bommies to be cleaned by smaller fish. While no specific historical events are detailed, its fame stems from consistent manta encounters, making it a pivotal spot on any Maldivian diving itinerary. Navigation often involves descending to the cleaning station and maintaining buoyancy while observing the spectacle. Beyond the star attraction of manta rays, the site is teeming with diverse marine life, including various species of sharks, mobula rays, elegant eagle rays, and numerous stingrays resting on the sandy bottom. Large pelagic fish like Napoleons (Maori Wrasse) are also frequently sighted, alongside various moray eels hiding in crevices and a plethora of colorful reef fish. The reef structure itself consists of healthy hard and soft corals, providing both the cleaning stations and a vibrant habitat for smaller creatures. The best time to visit Lankan Beyru for manta encounters generally aligns with the plankton-rich currents, which vary by monsoon season but are often predictable locally. It is advisable to go with experienced local dive guides who know the specific conditions and manta behavior. For both scuba divers and freedivers, maintaining good buoyancy and respecting the mantas' space is crucial for an undisturbed and unforgettable experience. Photography is best done with a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of these gentle giants.