Gan Island
Addu
Gan Island, located in the Addu Atoll, is the southernmost island of the Maldives and one of the largest islands in the atoll. Historically significant, Gan was a center of Buddhist learning before the Islamic era, housing important ruins such as a vihara and stupa, which sadly were largely destroyed during airport construction. The island was later transformed during World War II into a strategic Royal Navy base known as "Port T," featuring airstrips, oil tanks, and military defenses, which played a vital role in the Eastern Fleet operations. Post-war, the base transitioned to RAF Gan during the Cold War until its closure in 1976. Today, Gan is connected by causeways to neighboring islands and hosts a hotel catering to tourists, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history. The wreck of the tanker British Loyalty, scuttled nearby and now a popular dive site, adds to the island's maritime heritage. Gan's cultural and military history, combined with its tropical setting, makes it a fascinating destination for visitors interested in both nature and history.
Plan your trip to Maldives with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The best time to visit Gan Island is during the dry season when weather conditions favor outdoor activities. Visitors interested in diving should explore the British Loyalty wreck site, a notable underwater attraction. Booking accommodations in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Gan's causeways allow easy travel to nearby islands, enhancing exploration opportunities. While on the island, respect local customs and be mindful of the historical sites, some of which are no longer intact due to past developments.
Interesting facts
- •Gan Island was the site of the southernmost Buddhist ruins in the Maldives, including a vihara and stupa.
- •During World War II, Gan hosted a significant Royal Navy base called "Port T," which included airstrips and large oil tanks.
- •The British tanker British Loyalty was torpedoed near Gan in 1944 and later scuttled nearby, becoming a popular diving site despite ongoing oil leakage.
- •Causeways were constructed during WWII to connect Gan with neighboring islands, facilitating defense and logistics.
- •Gan was used for launching Kookaburra rockets from a pad located at coordinates 0°41' S and 73°9' E.
History
Gan Island has been inhabited since ancient times and served as the head island of Addu Atoll during the pre-Islamic era, known for its Buddhist temple and stupa.
In 1922, archaeologist H.
C.
P.
Bell documented the island's Buddhist ruins.
During World War II, Gan became a crucial Royal Navy base, "Port T," supporting fleet operations with airstrips and oil storage.
The base was later operated by the Royal Air Force during the Cold War until its closure in 1976.
The island's strategic military importance shaped much of its modern history and infrastructure.
Place Guide
Ancient Buddhist RuinsPre-Islamic era
The foundations of a vihara (temple) and a stupa mound once stood on Gan, marking it as the southernmost Buddhist site in the Maldives. These ruins were largely destroyed during the construction of the airport runway.
World War II Royal Navy Base (Port T)1941-1946
Gan was transformed into a strategic naval base during WWII, featuring airstrips constructed by Royal Navy engineers, large oil tanks, and military defenses including shore batteries and anti-aircraft guns. The base was crucial for fleet operations in the Indian Ocean.
British Loyalty Wreck Dive Site1944 (torpedoed), 1946 (scuttled)
The British tanker British Loyalty was torpedoed near Gan and later scuttled in the lagoon. Despite leaking oil, the wreck has become a popular diving attraction, offering a unique underwater experience.
Causeways Connecting Islands1940s
During WWII, causeways were built linking Gan with nearby islands such as Eyehook, Maradhoo, and Hithadhoo, facilitating military defense and logistics. These causeways now support local transportation and tourism.