If you’ve been eyeing those turquoise waters, the first question is always the same: how much will it cost? In 2025 the numbers have shifted a bit, but the basics stay the same – flights, accommodation, food, transport and activities. Let’s break it down so you can see the real price tag before you book.
Flights. From major Indian cities to Malé, a round‑trip ticket ranges between ₹12,000 and ₹30,000 depending on the airline, booking window and season. Early‑year travel (January‑March) usually lands on the lower end, while peak winter months (December‑February) push prices up.
Accommodation. This is where the budget can swing wildly. Budget guesthouses on local islands start at ₹2,500 per night. Mid‑range resorts hover around ₹8,000‑₹15,000 night, and ultra‑luxury over‑water villas can exceed ₹50,000 night. Booking a package that includes meals often saves a few hundred rupees per day.
Food. Local eateries (called "cafés") charge about ₹300‑₹600 for a simple meal of fish curry and rice. Resort restaurants cost anywhere from ₹1,200 to ₹3,000 per plate. A daily food budget of ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 covers most tastes without breaking the bank.
Transport on the islands. Speedboat transfers between islands are the norm. A one‑way ride costs roughly ₹2,000‑₹4,000 per person. Some resorts offer free transfers if you’re staying on‑site; otherwise, set aside ₹5,000‑₹10,000 for round‑trip boat rides.
Activities. Snorkeling, diving and island hopping are the big draws. A single‑dive ticket is about ₹5,000, while a full‑day snorkeling trip runs around ₹2,500. You can keep activity costs under ₹10,000 by choosing a few key experiences instead of a packed schedule.
Want to keep the Maldives vibe without the premium price? Look at Lakshadweep or the “Mini Maldives” islands in Kerala. Flights to these spots are cheaper, and guesthouses start at ₹1,200 per night. The water is just as clear, and you still get that island feel.
Travel in the shoulder season (April‑June or September‑October). You’ll still enjoy decent weather, but airline and resort rates drop 15‑25 %. Also, book a combo package that bundles flight, transfer and hotel – most providers discount the total by at least ₹5,000.
Lastly, consider staying on a local island for a few nights and then splurging on a resort for the highlight days. This mix gives you authentic culture, lower daily costs, and a taste of luxury without paying the full resort price for the entire trip.
In short, a 5‑day Maldives vacation can run anywhere from ₹45,000 for a shoestring adventure to ₹2,00,000 or more for a high‑end experience. Pin down your budget, pick the right season, and use the tips above to get the most out of every rupee.
Uncover the real costs of a week in the Maldives, including where your money goes, how to stretch your budget, and insider tips for that dream island getaway.
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