Kaashidhoo (Dhivehi: ކާށިދޫ) is one of the inhabited islands of Kaafu Atoll.
Kashidhoo archaeological site is one of the most historically significant on the island. It is the largest pre-Islamic remnant uncovered on Kaashidhoo; excavations have uncovered parts of a Buddhist Monastery that existed in the 7th and 8th Centuries AD. The project focuses on conserving the area that has already been excavated, helping to protect the site from erosion and weathering. Since the site is built almost entirely of coral stone, the conservation work is essential to making sure that generations of Maldivians can continue to view this important site, US Embassy statement expressed.
The island is 86.42 km (54 mi; 47 nmi) north of the country’s capital, Malé.
Kaashidhoo is included in the Malé Atoll. However, it is an atoll by itself geographically. For the ease of administration, the island is placed under Kaafu Atoll.
The Kaashidu Kandu, also known as Kardiva Channel, is the broad channel separating some of the central atolls of Maldives.
