Maldives travel expenses: How much does a trip to the Maldives really cost?
When people ask if the Maldives, a sovereign island nation in the Indian Ocean, known for luxury resorts and crystal-clear waters is part of India, the answer is simple: no. It’s a separate country, about 700 kilometers southwest of India’s southern tip. But because so many Indian travelers consider it a beach escape, the question of Maldives travel expenses keeps coming up. How much does it actually cost to get there, stay there, and eat there? And is it worth it compared to places like Goa or Lakshadweep?
The flight from India to the Maldives, a direct route available from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru usually runs between ₹12,000 and ₹25,000 round-trip, depending on when you book. If you’re flying from a smaller city, you might need to connect through a hub, adding time and cost. Then there’s the resort fee—yes, many resorts charge a mandatory daily resort fee on top of room rates. That can be ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per night, covering things like Wi-Fi, water sports, and transfers. A budget traveler might find a guesthouse on a local island for ₹3,000–₹5,000 a night, but even then, getting there requires a speedboat or ferry, which costs extra. Food isn’t cheap either. A simple meal at a local café might set you back ₹800–₹1,200, while a resort dinner can easily hit ₹4,000 or more. Compare that to India, where ₹500 can buy you three solid meals in Agra or ₹1,500 gets you a decent beachside dinner in Goa. The Maldives vs India beaches, a common comparison for travelers weighing luxury against affordability isn’t just about sand and sea—it’s about what you’re willing to pay for privacy and exclusivity.
Here’s the thing: the Maldives isn’t a backpacker destination. It’s designed for people who want to unplug, pay a premium, and not worry about anything. If you’re looking for cheap sun, clean water, and good food without the sticker shock, India’s own islands—like Lakshadweep or Andaman—offer similar beauty at a fraction of the cost. But if you’re after that overwater bungalow experience, the Maldives still delivers. The real question isn’t whether it’s expensive—it’s whether the experience matches your idea of a perfect getaway. Below, you’ll find real stories, cost breakdowns, and tips from travelers who’ve been there—some on a tight budget, others splurging hard. Whether you’re planning your first trip or just curious how it stacks up against Indian beach spots, the answers are here.
