Why book
For those seeking a coral cay of natural beauty coupled with luxury, this exclusive Maldivian sanctuary is hard to match. Picture powder-puff sands, luscious greenery and endless azure waters with a scattering of thatched cottages. Here, sophistication meets tropical allure, promising an unforgettable, barefoot chic affair.
Venue Style
There is nothing ordinary about an experience at Gili Lankanfushi. When it comes to attention-to-detail, it has it all, the remarkable setting, modern-yet-eco architecture and truly exceptional food and drink. Every guest/couple is matched with their own Mr./Ms. Friday – named after Robin Crusoe’s assistant – who will be on hand to ensure that yours and your guests’ every need is met and to provide a calm, clear and flexible schedule for the wedding day and the duration of your stay.
Set the Scene
Barefoot luxury finds its zenith at Gili Lankanfushi, and one cannot help but surrender to the enchantment of this Maldivian paradise! From the moment you step off the speedboat, you’re ushered into an ethereal world where time seems to float on the gentle caress of the Indian Ocean. The ‘no news, no shoes’ philosophy becomes a mantra, a promise that every step on this sun-kissed oasis will be a step away from the everyday.
As you traverse the wooden pathways to your villa on your very own bamboo bicycle, the air fills with the sweet scent of tropical blooms, the rhythmic sound of lapping waves becomes your melody. Villas, fashioned from environmentally friendly materials, seamlessly blend with the surrounding coral gardens.
Your wedding party can make the most of the activities on offer including yoga, tennis, snorkelling and scuba-diving. Surfers can find the best waves in the Maldives less than 15km away and the Surf School offers expeditions, group, and one-on-one classes. Those looking for more relaxed activities can enjoy the outdoor cinema or a dolphin sunset cruise. There is also the Meera Spa – a beautiful thatched over-water structure – which offers a range of decadent treatments. There are viewing windows beneath the massage beds so you can count parrotfish passing by as you unwind.
Event Spaces
There are two spaces for the ceremony: the overwater Lagoon Champa and beach-side One Palm Island setting. The Lagoon Champa is a hard-to-rival location. Built over-water with recycled wood, it’s a masterclass in eco-luxury. The structure is rustic-chic with an iconic clear-glass aisle, the crystal-clear Indian Ocean beneath. It’s not unusual to witness a stingray or reef shark swim through during the ceremony.
Then there’s the beach setup on One Palm Island surrounded by all the luscious beauty of the island. Here the bride will walk down a golden, sandy aisle with locally-sourced hibiscus flowers scattered around you and the pristine turquoise waters in front of you as you exchange vows.
Food and Drink
At Gili Lankanfushi, Chef Hari Govindaraj is renowned for his culinary expertise. His food is an amalgamation of traditional Maldivian cuisine with a modern twist, offering a unique dining experience that is both authentic and innovative.
Chef Hari’s menus are a testament to his commitment to sustainability. He believes in the philosophy of ‘from garden to plate’, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, many of which are grown on the island itself. He’s an expert when it comes to any dietary restrictions and enjoys the challenge of creating something exceptional for everyone. He has an unhampered understanding of spice and flavour – partly thanks to his southern Indian heritage. His expertise is reflected in his plant-based dishes – his eggplant steak is a masterpiece! But for those who enjoy fresh seafood, his Lobster Risotto is breath-stealing.
There are several idyllic settings for your wedding dinner; a romantic beach-side table under a canopy of stars and a stunning uninterrupted view of the vast ocean, or the secret organic garden, surrounded by lush greenery and endless vistas of the mesmerising turquoise waters. is typically on the beach under a canopy of stars with the enchanting views of Gili’s greenery and ocean surrounding you. There are various options to choose for on your wedding day, an indulgent four-course or seven-course menus or buffet for those looking for something more casual. You can choose from delicious fresh Maldivian seafood, grill or one of their themed menus inspired by Gili Culinary Journey.
The same level of attention is given to cocktails and wine; the Overwater Bar is the perfect spot to watch the sunset and has a show-stopping selection of cocktails. Their Underground Wine Cellar boasts an impressive collection of over 500 wine varieties – we highly recommend booking one of their sommelier tasting events.
Accommodation
There are 45 overwater villas, each offering unfettered access to the crystal-clear turquoise waters. What distinguishes them, however, is not just their aesthetic appeal but a commitment to sustainable luxury. Constructed from environmentally-friendly materials, these villas epitomise conscientious design.
Generously proportioned and bathed in natural light, there’s an abundance of windows and skylights. The interiors, marked by simple yet tasteful design, feature comfortable, upcycled furniture and fabrics in serene, neutral tones.
Exclusive terraces and sun decks grace each abode, strategically designed to capitalise on panoramic views and beautiful climate. There’s also an option to ask your Mr/Mrs Friday to set-up the outdoor daybed to “sleep under the stars”. Morning yoga sessions, sunbathing, or indulging in a bit of stargazing — these private decks and terraces cater to every whim. Some even offer the luxury of private infinity pools. Those looking for a little extra privacy can book the Crusoe Villas, which can only be accessed by boat.
Then there’s the pièce de résistance — the Private Reserve. A titanic overwater villa, claiming the title of the world’s largest, it unfolds into a realm of otherworldly luxury. Within its confines, a private cinema, spa, gym, infinity pool, and even a waterslide await your indulgence. The presence of staff ensures your every desire is not just met but also anticipated.
The Story
Gili Lankanfushi has been proudly open for 10 years , the original resort graced the shores for over two decades. The roots in the Maldivian landscape run deep, owed to its exceptional location and enduring charm. Serving as one of the early pioneers in the Maldives’ resort scene, Gili Lankanfushi has not only stood the test of time but has flourished into a beloved destination and still ranks among the very best experiences in the small archipelago.
The Need-to-Know
Budget: Entry-level packages start from $3,980 with a series of enhancements available. The intimate Gili Lankanfushi Honey-Lope Package starts from $13,730.
Capacity: up to 10 guests for the intimate wedding package; up to 150 guests for the wedding day package
Location: Maldives, Lankanfushi Island 08290 North Malé Atoll, Republic of Maldives
Contact: [email protected]
Website: https://gili-lankanfushi.com/experience/weddings/
Instagram: @gili.lankanfushi
Related Article: Where To Honeymoon In The Maldives
